At The Heads, Barwon Heads

As a photographer, this was a dream wedding venue of mine, and I finally got there last month! The bonus, I’m back there this afternoon, just three weeks later, with another couple - cannot wait.

Wedding guests arriving and daytrippers enjoying the beach - March 2024

Firstly, let’s talk location. At the Heads is located in the beautiful town of Barwon Heads, and has a charm of elegance about it. Sat on the Barwon River - quite literally - it is bizarre but quite an experience, to get all dressed up and married at this stunning venue, whilst, during peak summer, having beach bathers on the sand below, people fishing, and kids jumping off the neighbouring pier - to then be swept past the venue on incoming tides. I LOVE it!

Group picture - March 2024

In the group shot above, I was quite literally shouting instructions whilst sunbathers and daytrippers were staring at me like I was a deranged man ruining the peace. In reality, both the guests and the onlookers loved the experience - the wedding, not me shouting. I like the rogue child looking up at the guests in this shot, but yes, they could also be edited out.

A happy couple just after their first kiss - March 2024

Although you can get married outside on the nearby lawn, my first experience At The Heads was a ceremony inside the main structure, surrounded by beautiful timber floors, trusses and near 360 degree views of the beach and river mouth.

A ceremony inside, boasting views and beautiful timber trusses - March 2024

Photographers often hate venues with windows behind the couple, but this place is different. With glass all around, including in the ceiling, lighting is actually great, and with a professional eye, it’s hard to take a bad picture.

A ceremony inside, looking back at the guests and bar area - March 2024

Once you have been married, At the Heads has a number of areas that you can head for family photographs, but I like up by the trees, as it is usually sheltered from the sun and any wind by late afternoon, and can have a nice glow to it.

Bridal Party in the trees directly next to the venue - March 2024

If you wanted to take a break from your wedding day, and go for some off-site pics, then Barwon Heads has you covered with an array of beaches, timber stairs, or seaside town vibes. Personally, I love The Bluff just up the road, where there is a beach and staircase on both sides of the headland, so you can pick the side based on wind direction.

Timber staircase leading to the beach on the North side of The Bluff - March 2024

Rocky beach on the South side of The Bluff - Nov 2022

Now let’s talk sunset shots! I think sunset shots here are just killer. The soft blues and pinks that can occur after a hot day are just outrageous. Combine the sunset with ocean water and the attractive angles of the At The Heads structure, and you are on to a winner.

Sunset on the walkway At The Heads - March 2024

Sunset shots here are so quick and easy, you won’t miss a minute of your night. But if you had a bit more time, head across the bridge to the opposite beach, there is a cracking shot opportunity with the venue in the background.

Oh, and did I mention the food…