The brand new Dove Lake viewing shelter has just opened at Cradle Mountain. Daniel Livings is a wedding photographer who specialises in combining landscape and weddings to showcase the beauty of Tasmania. He shares with us the unique experience of finding the shelter open for business last weekend with newlyweds Corry and Gerrard.

Last weekend I had the privilege of photographing Corry and Gerrard’s elopement in Cradle Mountain. We went from potentially not being able to access the Cradle Mountain view due to the opening of a new shelter being constructed – to – not only getting exclusive access, but an absolute spectacular sunset to boot. The electric excitement from all three of us was as tangible as it was addictive, we were like three giddy kids.

The Shelter is one of those architectural delights nestled in a wilderness setting that cleverly enhances both. I particularly appreciated the homage to Aboriginal Tasmanians and the opportunities to educate that will bring. Oh and the wall to wall, ceiling to floor windows really invite the mountain inside the room.

One piece of advice for shooting here (which comes from my mistake) is have a foolproof plan to get in and out. Access is limited with shuttle buses running up until 7:30pm, problem being sunset this time of year isn’t till 8:30 – 9pm. The risk of being left behind is real. That said, if willing to risk it for the biscuit, the results are in the images!

I’m a landscape/ wedding elopement photographer that relishes in combining these separate skillsets. The seemingly inexhaustible Tasmanian wilderness fills me with something that can’t be found on the mainland. The chance to share that splendour with interstate couples makes me proud to call Lutruwita/ Tasmania home.”