Ken Duncan's Guide to Shooting the Outback

Australia’s favourite landscape photographer shares his tips and tricks on photographing remote areas – from getting friendly with the locals to capturing fast-flowing waterfalls and getting up at the crack of dawn, it’s all in a day’s work. Interviewed by Elisabeth Knowles.

TIP ONE: CREATE DIMENSION

God’s Marbles, Wauchope, NT

This lovely scene depicts the Devils Marbles (Indigenous name: Karlu Karlu), south of Tennant Creek, but, says Ken, “Why would you give the devil the credit for something
so beautiful?"

This is the central panel of an image that would take four Australian Traveller pages laid side by side to show in full, but we’ve chosen this detail so you can see one of Ken’s favourite tricks to bringing an image to life – finding foreground interest.

“One of the most common mistakes amateur photographers make is that they’ve failed to create layers in the image," says Ken. “In real life, the landscape may be incredible but when they take a photo it can look flat. Here, the foreground rocks give a sensation of depth.

“To keep everything in frame in focus, from the foreground to the background, use a small aperture, such as f22 (the bigger the f-number, the smaller the aperture). A good rule of thumb is that the bigger the f-number, the larger the area in focus."

But he also warns: “Don’t be afraid of blur. There’s movement evident in the leaves of the tree in this shot, which adds a bit of action."

The other tip to be gleaned from this image is “be patient". Ken stayed for three days at the nearby Wauchope Hotel to capture this photo.

“I’d have a pub meal, chat to the locals, wake up early [this image was taken at sunrise] then spend the day walking around."

He adds that if you talk to people who live in the region, you’ll be let in on local secrets such as wonderful things to see nearby that other travellers wouldn’t notice or know about when following the well-worn tourist path.

One benefit of getting up early and shooting at sunrise is that you escape the crowds of tourists. “There is such a beautiful feeling here; it’s such a sacred place," says Ken of the Marbles. “When you sit among the rocks you go into a state of quiet contemplation and it filters your mind."

The one thing you may not realise from this image is the size of the rocks: “They’re huge!" he laughs. “People go and push against those balancing rocks and you think, ‘One day they’ll get a shock!’"

TECHNICAL STUFF: Camera: custom-made Seitz Roundshot 220VR (shoots a 220º panorama). Lens: 75mm Pentax 67 with lens shift. Filters: none. Medium: film, Fuji 220 Velvia, ISO 50. Shutter speed: 1/4s. Aperture: F11. Ratio: 5:1. Degrees: 225 scan, shot on tripod. Original image size: 6cm x 30cm.

TIP TWO: SHOOT AT DAWN

Haasts Bluff, NT

As with the previous image, shooting at sunrise means you often get the location to yourself. “No-one else is out of bed," says Ken, so you can take your time enjoying the landscape, uninterrupted. The other benefit to this time of day is the light.

“The best light is with the sun behind you," says Ken. “Everything in the foreground lights up and you get beautiful pastel colours. If you get up early enough, you won’t get your shadow in shot."

Two hundred and fifty kilometres west of Alice Springs, the region around Haasts Bluff is very special to Ken because it’s where he has chosen to set up an art gallery and foundation to teach Indigenous kids from the Ikuntji community to take photographs, produce cinematography and play music. The Walk a While Foundation is named after the Indigenous philosophy that you shouldn’t presume to know anyone unless you’re willing to “walk a while" alongside them. For more information on the foundation, go to kenduncan.com/index.php/walk-a-while.

TECHNICAL STUFF: Camera: Phase One P645 body with P45+ back. Lens: 35mm. Medium: digital, ISO 50. Shutter speed: 1/6s. Aperture: f10. Exposure compensation: -0.3.

TIP THREE: DON’T SHOO PEOPLE OUT OF FRAME!

Glycomis Falls, the Kimberley, WA

According to Ken, another common mistake people make when shooting landscapes is waiting until everyone leaves the frame before taking the photo. “That’s my helicopter pilot," says Ken of the man sitting on the rocks in the image above.

“A person in the shot gives scale. Don’t worry about them being there – bring them in! And don’t worry about them having to show their faces. They don’t need to be recognisable unless you’re looking to get an ‘I’ve been everywhere, man’ shot. Also, wear bright colours! I don’t know why all hiking clothes tend to be made in tree-hugging brown and khakis. I wear red or purple, so if I get lost I can be found!"

Bright hues also stand out beautifully against the ochres and greens of the Outback.

Glycomis Falls is in a remote part of the Kimberley. Ken was here straight after the wet season ended, when the waterfalls were still fully flowing.

“This is my favourite style of shoot lately," says Ken. “Finding locations where no-one else has set foot. Not many people would have ever been on the ground here [some Kimberley cruises, such as True North, come in by boat]. I’m not interested in taking photographs of the same old locations. I’m looking for secret treasures. I find many places by walking and driving, and sometimes by helicopter. I’ve spent over 1000 hours in a helicopter but I’m not interested in learning how to fly one. I want to be able to sit back and look."

TECHNICAL STUFF: Camera: Seitz Roundshot 220 VR. Lens: 75mm Pentax 67 with lens shift. Filters: none. Medium: film, Fuji 220 Velvia, ISO 50. Shutter speed: 1/60s. Aperture: f11. Ratio: 5:1. Degrees: 220 scan. Note: this is a detail from the original panorama.

TIP FOUR: Don’t SHOOT EVERYTHING HEAD-ON

Eagle Falls, the Kimberley, WA

The image of Eagle Falls [opposite page] was shot in another remote Kimberley location accessed by helicopter. Ken recommends viewing your subject from all angles. “Don’t just go for the typical stand-and-deliver shot," he says. “When you shoot a waterfall from the left or right you may catch a rainbow.

“Another consideration when shooting such a contrasty shot is that you need to read your histogram. I want to get everything in one exposure. I hate HDR [High Dynamic Range imaging]. Some people use it when there’s no need – they could have got it right in-camera. Expose for the highlights so your whites don’t blow out. Make the histogram go as far right as possible without slamming into the side."

It’s also a wise idea to do a recce first, to see what time of day your subject is lit by sun.

“There is no such thing as ‘harsh’ light – it only becomes harsh if you’re shooting straight into it. This was taken around lunchtime."

Waterfalls are terrific to photograph because the movement of water creates a sense of drama.

“A good exercise to make you understand water movement is to follow the water with your eyes," says Ken. “Moving water tends to blur unless you follow the flow. Through the camera, the longer the exposure the blurrier the water. This was shot very fast so you don’t see much blur, but in the past I’ve shot with an exposure up to five minutes. The water becomes quite ethereal; seascapes become misty lakes. My daughter calls it ‘smudgy water’."

TECHNICAL STUFF: Camera: Linhof 617S II. Lens: Schneider 72mm. Filters: centre graduated filter. Medium: film, Fuji 220 Velvia, ISO 100. Shutter speed: 1/8s. Aperture: f32. Ratio: 3:1. Degrees: 100, shot on tripod. Original image size: 6cm by 17cm.

TIP FIVE: GET TO KNOW THE LOCALS

Arnhem Land, NT

“You need to build relationships with people before you have any right to take their photograph," says Ken. “I had been on the beach with these children and their parents and we were just mucking around. They were pretty excited when they caught this turtle. It got away, thank God, but another wasn’t so lucky."

TECHNICAL STUFF: Camera: Phase One P645 body with P65+ back. Lens: 35mm. Medium: digital, ISO 200. Shutter speed: 1/320s. Aperture: f4. Exposure compensation: -0.3.

TIP SIX: USE ARTIFICIAL LIGHT

Fitzroy Crossing, WA

This boab tree was taken at sunrise, on the main road between Derby and Broome, in the Kimberley. “People drive straight past all the time," says Ken.

The technique used is called ‘light painting’: “The foreground is lit with a torch. I had my assistant go off to one side and shine the torch back and forth along the trunk and branches. He ‘painted’ it with torchlight while I took a long exposure. You could have lit the tree with car headlights but it’s hard to ‘paint’ with a car! Every traveller should carry a good torch anyway, they’re invaluable. I use the brand Wolf Eyes."

TECHNICAL STUFF: Camera: Phase One P645 body with P65+ back. Lens: 35mm. Medium: digital, ISO 100. Shutter speed: 30s. Aperture: f3.5.

These photos all feature in Ken’s latest book, Australia: Our Island Paradise (Panographs Publishing, $50). You can buy both the book and art prints online at kenduncan.com

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery , Arc One Gallery , Outre Gallery , Caves Gallery , Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary , allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.

Ken Duncan’s Guide to Shooting the Outback