Sharni & Alexander | Allview Escape Blue Mountains
Sharni & Alexander | Allview Escape Blue Mountains
Sharni & Alexander’s couples shoot at Allview Escape was one of those sessions that didn’t go to plan — and ended up being even better because of it.
I headed up to the Blue Mountains for the weekend with three shoots planned across Saturday and Sunday, each in a completely different setting. Sharni & Alex’s session was originally meant to take place at Anvil Rock, but road closures due to fire forced a change of plans before we’d even begun.
A Last-Minute Change — and a Huge Save
By Sunday afternoon, as we were regrouping around 5:30pm, the weather turned quickly. Torrential rain rolled in, soaking everything and making it clear that this shoot would need a rethink — but postponing wasn’t an option.
On a bit of a long shot, I called the team at Allview Escape to ask whether we might be able to shoot on site. With weddings and guests often booked in, I knew it was unlikely — but Adrian answered the phone, heard the situation, and helped make it happen. Absolute legend.
Shooting at Allview Escape in Wild Conditions
Allview Escape is a venue I’d wanted to photograph for a long time, and getting the opportunity to do so under such dramatic conditions made it even more memorable.
The rain softened the light beautifully, mist rolled through the pines midway through the shoot, and the whole atmosphere felt moody, calm, and cinematic. Conditions like this can’t be planned — but when you lean into them, they can create something really special.
After spending time shooting on site, we stepped just across the road from the front gate. Only metres away, the bushland told a very different story.
A Landscape Shaped by Fire — and Regrowth
The surrounding area had been completely burnt out by bushfires. Standing there, it was impossible not to reflect on the loss and impact felt by the local community — while also noticing the colours, textures, and early signs of regrowth already pushing through.
It was a strange mix of emotions, but visually powerful. A reminder of both resilience and renewal. Massive respect to the RFS — their courage, precision, and commitment is nothing short of extraordinary.
Embracing the Unexpected
Sharni & Alexander approached the entire afternoon with such an open mindset. Even as plans shifted and the weather turned, they trusted the process and embraced whatever the conditions delivered.
That trust made all the difference. The images feel honest, unique, and reflective of a side of the Blue Mountains people don’t always imagine — something Sharni summed up perfectly.
“Aw wow, these are so beautiful! Thanks so much for including us — it was a lot of fun, and these photos are super unique. I love that they show a side of the Blue Mountains people don’t always imagine.”
A Blue Mountains Location Worth Knowing
Allview Escape offers an incredible sense of privacy and immersion in the landscape, especially in conditions that highlight the mountains’ more dramatic side. Whether for a couples shoot, elopement, or intimate celebration, it’s a location that truly shines when you allow the environment to lead.
Huge thanks again to Sharni & Alexander for trusting my vision — and congratulations to you both on the little one on the way.
