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Overview
Whether you're lining up to become the next David Attenborough or you're a mad Instagrammer, there's stacks of scope for improving your photography skills in the Blue Mountains. But with dozens of lookouts, scores of waterfalls and hundreds of walking trails to visit, how do you figure out where's best?
Well, you could ask a pro. Expert photographer Gary P. Hayes, who's been snapping away since he was 12, spills the beans on several of his secret spots for us. Master the shots here and you'll be well on your way to snap-happiness.
MIDDLE PLATFORM, KATOOMBA FALLS
For the dream photo, you should get here for sunset. As the sun disappears, the cliffs glow an incredible, fiery red for just a few minutes each day, giving the location's extraordinary perspective its most magical feel. On your left, you have the Katoomba Falls seriously close, while on your right, Jamison Valley stretches out for what looks like forever, made even more dramatic by Mount Solitary. Photographers have been hanging around here angling for the perfect shot since the 1900s.
SUBLIME POINT, LEURA
Early risers, Leura's Sublime Point is for you. Sleeper-innerers, it's worth struggling out of bed for. Arrive at sunrise and you'll get to see Mount Solitary and the Three Sisters (from the back) in a whole new light. Fortunately, getting there is a cinch – there's no call for any strenuous walking first thing in the morning.
GOVETT'S LEAP LOOKOUT, BLACKHEATH
Like Sublime Point, Govett's Leap Lookout also puts on its best face at first light. The good news is, that, of all the spots listed here, this one gives away the most impressive shots most easily. Even absolute amateurs are highly likely to produce photos to make their folks proud. Govett's Leap is also one of the all-round most popular lookouts in the Blue Mountains – probably because it comes with 180-metre high waterfalls, ridiculously beautiful views of the Grose Wilderness and, if you keep your eyes out, king parrots and yellow-tailed black cockatoos.
VALLEY OF THE WATERS, WENTWORTH FALLS
Pack your bags for this one – it's an all-day walk. But you and your Instagram account definitely won't be sorry you made the effort. Expect one stunning waterfall after the other and many an awe-inspiring vista. It's ideal for practising all your photographic techniques – from tiny details to mesmerising natural patterns and mind-blowing views.
Images by Gary P. Hayes