Merewether Surfhouse Wedding Photos
Three storeys on the sand at Merewether, ocean on three sides, and the baths below
Merewether Surfhouse stands on Henderson Parade at Merewether Beach in Newcastle, on the site of a 1937 art deco bathing pavilion wrecked in the 1989 earthquake. The new building opened in 2011: three storeys with 270-degree ocean views, a restaurant and bar on the top floor, a function floor on level two, and a kiosk and beach bar at ground level. The function space has movable walls, a private bar, a balcony over the beach and a dance floor, and takes 40 to 350 guests.
Veri photographed Rachael and Dylan’s reception here after a ceremony at the Hickson Street Lookout above the beach, where the paragliders launch. It is a Newcastle day in miniature: vows on the headland with the coast running south, portraits on the sand, then up to level two while the sun goes down behind the town.
How to prepare for your wedding photos (without overthinking it)
Seven small things that make a real difference on the day — learned across hundreds of weddings. None of them involve practising poses.
In motion, unposed · FR 15A1. Be yourselves — that's where the magic is
You don't need to perform or worry about what you look like. The best photos come from real moments: a glance, a laugh, a shared breath. Let go a little — we'll guide when needed, and the best unfolds naturally.
2. Build buffer time into your timeline
A little breathing room between getting ready, the ceremony and couple portraits makes all the difference. It gives us space for spontaneous shots — and gives you time to soak it all in.
3. Choose locations that feel like you
A quiet lane, an open field, a textured wall — we love meaningful or interesting spots. Trust us to find great light, but if you've got a place you love, let's work it in.
4. Consider an unplugged ceremony
Phones can distract from the emotion (and your photos). Asking guests to be fully present makes for cleaner frames and a more heartfelt atmosphere.
5. Get ready in calm, light-filled spaces
Clutter-free rooms with natural light are a photographer's dream, and calm energy in the morning sets the tone for the day. Keep the space tidy — or assign a friend to do a quick sweep before we arrive.
6. Keep a drink and snacks nearby
Especially during portraits — hydration and a little sugar go a long way in keeping energy and moods high.
7. Trust the process
We've worked at hundreds of weddings and we're here to make you look and feel amazing. Trust us with the light, the angles, the pace — we've got you.
Photographing a wedding at Merewether Surfhouse
The beach faces east, so the surf is front-lit in the morning and goes soft and pale by late afternoon, when the couple can walk the sand without squinting. The balcony on the function level is the frame for the pair against the ocean; the headland at the southern end works for a wider set. Inside, the glass lights the room until dusk, then we light the dance floor ourselves. Wind is constant, so hold the veil. The gallery below is Rachael and Dylan’s wedding.