MY FAV SPOTS FOR OUTDOOR PHOTOS NEAR WHAKATANE

Are you unsure where to take your outdoor photos? Here's a guide to some of my go-to outdoor locations around Whakatāne, Thornton, and Ohope Beach for your upcoming photoshoot.

Your outdoor location can completely transform your gallery.

Each location photographs differently depending on the time of year, the way the light hits, and the weather on the day of your shoot. Have a browse of my go-to locations for your outdoor photos, but please know that if you have somewhere specific in mind, or access to private property, I can also come to you.

Some locations do have a small travel fee. However, this will be fully transparent if it applies.

LOCATION 1: THORNTON BEACH, DOMAIN RESERVE

We usually start at the reserve (opposite the Thornton Boat Ramp) for some photos and then head down to the lagoon or beachside to let the kids run wild for some variety in your gallery.

This location can be busier during warmer months, but the reserve itself is a huge space big enough to create some distance and not feel like you've got an audience.

Accessibility

Easily accessible, with minimal walking required to reach the location.

There are heaps of lawn prickles during summertime so FOOTWEAR is a MUST.

Travel

The approximate travel time to the location from Whakatane is 10 minutes. 

Travel fee does not apply for this location.

LOCATION 2: THORNTON BEACH, WALKER ROAD

A current fave of mine, this beach location near Thornton offers lots of variety and textures with its big, wide, open coastal grassy field, dunes, and beachscapes. The beach is flatter and tends to be nicer for playing in the shallows, as the depth doesn't drop off suddenly.

(I'd recommend shoes for part of the session as the coastal grasses can be quite crunchy under the feet)

Accessibility

Approx 3-minute walk to reach the beach from the car park. 

It is suitable for those who may have limited mobility as you can drive a vehicle through the grassy field areas, meaning shorter walking distances. I've driven my (non) 4x4 car through, and it was fine, just stick to the hard compact track and avoid soft sand.

Privacy/ Child Suitability

It is quieter than my other beach locations, meaning there are fewer dog walkers and fewer general beachgoers.

It has huge, wide-open spaces, so if you prefer privacy, you'll definitely get it at this location. 

Suitable for all sessions and is also child- and water-play friendly.

Perfect for a creative maternity session where you'd like to get some bare belly shots. 

Travel

Approx travel time to location from Whakatane: 10-15 minutes. 

Travel fees do not apply for this location.

LOCATION 3: ONEPU - KARAPONGA RESERVE

This grassy location is near Onepu Bike park on a big wide open reserve off Braemar Road.

There is a little ankle deep stream tucked away out of sight for the families with kiddies who love water - just something different to add a bit of variety into your gallery. 

Accessibility

Suitable for earlier arvo sessions with little kids as there is plenty of filtered light.

Parking in a small car park next to the reserve.

Privacy/Child Suitability

Suitable for all session types and is also child/water play friendly.

A mostly private location - would be suited for maternity, families, extended families.

Travel

Approx travel time to location from Whakatane: 25-30 minutes. 

Travel fees do not apply for this location.

ABOUT RM PHOTO:

I'm Renee, a local Whakatane photographer. I create easy-going photo experiences and vibrant imagery for laid-back families, parents-to-be, and couples who can't stand cringy traditional photographs.

Check out my work and reach out to learn more.