St Kilda Botanical Gardens
LOCATION GUIDESt Kilda Botanical Gardens
LOCATION GUIDESt Kilda Botanical Gardens is like a tranquil little oasis, with a lake, a huge hedge, rose garden, gazebo and big, old, shady trees which are great for photos. We love it, and I'm sure you will too.
We've put this guide together to help you find the gardens, feel at home and really enjoy your family portrait experience.
Below, you'll find a map, weather forecast, suggestions in the area and lots more. We're constantly adding to these guides too, so if you have a question it doesn't cover, let us know.
Getting there
(Click the map to enlarge)
Costs and Access Restrictions
This location is free, and there are no photography permits required. It does have a gate, but is open between sunrise and sunset every day of the year.
There is a small conservatory with different rules and restrictions, but the rest of the gardens are large and varied enough that we don't need to be in there.
What to bring
These pictures should be all about your family relationships, so there's no need to bring props or additional clothing changes.
Here are a few things we suggest you bring:
- Water
- Snacks (TIP: try to choose substantial foods rather than grazing at small things like sultanas. That way each kid can take a break, fill their tummy and then rejoin the family)
- Any medicines your family might need
- Mosquito repellant (not usually required, but they can be a problem occasionally)
Will it rain?
Approximately 48 hours prior to your session we'll start watching the weather (we don't really trust the forecast before then), and if it looks like rain is likely, we'll call you.
You might prefer to keep an eye on the weather yourself too though, so we've put together a few resources for you.
Can we bring our dog?
Yes, dogs are allowed in most areas of the gardens. They must be kept on-lead, but don’t worry, as we can magic that lead away in photoshop for you!
Dogs are not permitted within 5 metres of the playground, but we tend to avoid the playground anyway, as there are too many distractions for the kids, which leads to bad photos.
As with any natural environment, we can't guarantee that there won't be snakes, other dogs or other dangers for your dog, so please take good care of your fur-baby. Please also ensure that your dog isn't a danger to the gardens or the other visitors.
Can we bring our dog?
Yes, dogs are allowed in most areas of the gardens. They must be kept on-lead, but don’t worry, as we can magic that lead away in photoshop for you!
Dogs are not permitted within 5 metres of the playground, but we tend to avoid the playground anyway, as there are too many distractions for the kids, which leads to bad photos.
As with any natural environment, we can't guarantee that there won't be snakes, other dogs or other dangers for your dog, so please take good care of your fur-baby. Please also ensure that your dog isn't a danger to the gardens or the other visitors.
"I knew our photos would be lovely, but wow! It’s not just the pictures that are great – our recollection of the whole session with Iain is so overwhelmingly positive and really adds to how much we love the record of it!”
What to wear
For lots of tips and ideas, check out our what-to-wear guide here.
If it helps, email a photo of some outfit ideas to hello@hugster.com.au or call us on 0489 912 602 and we'll help you.
Family-friendly food nearby
The St Kilda shops are very nearby if you need something before or after your session. Here are a few of our favourite options for kid-friendly food in the area.
For a snack
If you’re just looking for something quick to fill little tummies, the famous Monarch Cakes bakery on Acland Street is a great option and the kids will love making their choice from the street windows. Here’s a map link.
For everything else
There's a Woolworths and a Coles in St Kilda, quite close to the St Kilda Botanic Gardens with lots of parking at both. The Woolworths is our pick. Here’s a map link.