Tuscany Wedding Photographer Tips: Mastering Wedding Posing
1. Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera
The most important thing during a couple's photoshoot is to interact with your significant other, not the photographer. Look into each other’s eyes, hold hands, and share those little touches that mean the world. It’s your connection that will shine through in your photos.
Many couples start to feel anxious when they think about posing for their wedding photos. As a seasoned Tuscany wedding photographer with 8 years of experience, I can assure you—posing is easier than you think. While flawless posing might be reserved for professional models, there are simple, effective tips that can make a world of difference.
Recently, I experienced what it’s like on the other side of the camera during my first couple’s photoshoot. Spoiler alert: it was an amazing experience!
Me, my husband and my child in Porto by Tania Belyaeva
Key Posing Tips for Couples
1. Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera
The most important thing during a couple's photoshoot is to interact with your significant other, not the photographer. Look into each other’s eyes, hold hands, and share those little touches that mean the world. It’s your connection that will shine through in your photos.
Me, my husband and my child in Porto by Tania Belyaeva
2. Be Natural and Authentic
Treat your photoshoot like a memorable date with your partner. Take your time to really look at each other, caress a cheek, or gently move a lock of hair. Compliment each other and express your love—these genuine moments make for the most stunning photos. Do whatever feel natural for you. For me it was clearly photographing.
Me, my husband and my child in Porto by Tania Belyaeva
3. Live the Moment
One secret from the modeling world: live in the moment. Don’t just freeze in a pose; let your emotions flow and keep slight movements going. When you truly feel the moment, your photos will capture the magic of marrying the love of your life—the person who feels like home.
Me, my husband and my child in Porto by Tania Belyaeva
4. Have Fun
This might sound cliché, but it’s vital: have fun! I once photographed a couple who wanted their engagement shoot to be playful rather than overly romantic. We ran, jumped, rode a tram, and even borrowed a dog for some shots. Years later, they still tell me those photos are their favorite.
Me, my husband and my child in Porto by Tania Belyaeva
5. Communicate with Your Photographer
Don’t hesitate to share your insecurities with your photographer. If you’re worried about certain angles, like a double chin, let them know. A good photographer will be mindful of this and capture you in the most flattering way.
6. Know Your Best Side
Even top models and celebrities aren’t perfect—they just know their best angles. Ask your partner to take some candid shots of you while you move. Review them without judgment to find the side you prefer.
Me by Tania Belyaeva
Bonus Tip: Mewing
A little trick I’ve learned from the models: mewing. By placing your tongue on the roof of your mouth, you can instantly enhance your facial features. Give it a try before your big day!
Now that you’re armed with these wedding photography posing tips, check out the 26 must-have wedding photos or explore the complete list of essential wedding shots to ensure your special day is beautifully captured.
Me and my child in Porto by Tania Belyaeva
Wedding in Tuscany
Wedding in Tuscany
Imagine exchanging vows amidst rolling hills, lush vineyards, and historic villas—Tuscany offers all this and more for your wedding day. This region of Italy is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal location for couples seeking a romantic and unforgettable wedding experience.
Why Tuscany?
Wedding in Tuscany ©Maria Bryzhko Wedding Photographer in Italy
Stunning Scenery: Tuscany’s picturesque countryside is the perfect backdrop for wedding photos that you’ll treasure forever. From the golden sunsets over the vineyards to the cypress-lined roads, every corner of Tuscany exudes romance.
World-Class Cuisine: Delight your guests with a culinary experience like no other. Tuscany is famous for its delicious local cuisine and fine wines, ensuring that your wedding feast will be a highlight.
Historic Venues: Tuscany boasts an array of historic villas, castles, and estates that are available for weddings. These venues offer a blend of elegance and history, providing a unique and memorable setting for your special day.
Pleasant Climate: With its mild climate, Tuscany is a year-round wedding destination. Whether you choose a spring, summer, or autumn wedding, the weather is typically warm and inviting.
Cultural Richness: From Florence’s art and architecture to Siena’s medieval charm, Tuscany is steeped in culture and history. Your guests can enjoy a mini-vacation exploring the region’s treasures while celebrating your wedding.
Wedding in Tuscany ©Maria Bryzhko Wedding Photographer in Italy
A Personal Touch
I was raised in Tuscany—it's my home, and I nourish the warmest feelings for this region and its people. One of the most fun things about us Tuscans is the almost total absence of the letter C in our speaking. In the Florence area, we make it sound like hh or shh instead of the traditional C. In the Pisa area, where I used to live, we just don’t use it at all! A real example? A Coca Cola for us is simply “OA-OLA.”
Wedding in Tuscany ©Maria Bryzhko Wedding Photographer in Italy
If you’re curious about the location prices, here are some of the best villas in Tuscany for your wedding, along with their costs:
Wedding in Tuscany ©Maria Bryzhko Wedding Photographer in Italy
Top Villas in Tuscany for Wedding
Wedding in Tuscany ©Maria Bryzhko Wedding Photographer in Italy
Villa La Foce wedding cost
Location: Val d’Orcia
Price: Starting from €15,000 for a weekend
Description: This stunning villa offers panoramic views of the Tuscan hills and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. It’s perfect for a large wedding with up to 200 guests.
Villa Cora wedding cost
Location: Florence
Price: Starting from €20,000
Description: Located just outside Florence, Villa Cora is a luxurious venue with ornate interiors, lush gardens, and a rooftop terrace with views of the city.
Borgo Stomennano Wedding Cost
Location: Siena
Price: Starting from €12,000 for a weekend
Description: This 17th-century estate offers a charming and rustic setting with its own chapel, olive groves, and vineyards, ideal for an intimate and authentic Tuscan wedding.
Villa Vignamaggio Wedding Cost
Location: Chianti
Price: Starting from €10,000
Description: Known for its wine production, this villa offers a blend of luxury and tradition. It’s set amidst vineyards and olive trees, perfect for a romantic, wine-themed wedding.
Castello di Vincigliata Wedding Cost
Location: Fiesole, near Florence
Price: Starting from €25,000
Description: This medieval castle provides a fairytale setting with its ancient walls, courtyards, and breathtaking views of Florence.
San Gimignano ©Maria Bryzhko Wedding Photographer in Italy
Wedding in Tuscany cost
Intimate Wedding in Tuscany Cost: Up to 50 Guests
Total Cost: $43,700 - $53,700
Cost Breakdown:
Venue for the wedding weekend: $10,000 - $15,000 (includes accommodation for 20-30 people, with breakfast)
Wedding Planner: $5,000 - $10,550
Catering: $150 per person
Rentals: $200 per person
Florals: $6,000
Hair and Makeup: $1,000 (for the bride)
Maria Bryzhko Photography: $4,200
Como Castello Del Nero ©Maria Bryzhko Wedding Photographer in Italy
Luxury Wedding in Tuscany cost: Up to 50 Guests
Total Cost: $110,000 - $350,000
Cost Breakdown:
Venue for the wedding weekend or week: $40,000 - $200,000
Wedding Planner: $20,000 - $59,600
Catering: $300 per person
Rentals: $200 per person
Florals: $20,000 - $60,000
Hair and Makeup: $1,000 (for the bride)
Maria Bryzhko Photography: $4,700
Many of the locations can host weddings for up to 200 guests ( even if they can accomodate 20) . To estimate the cost for a larger wedding, simply add the price for catering and rentals per person and multiply by the number of guests.
Como Castello Del Nero ©Maria Bryzhko Wedding Photographer in Italy
Tuscany isn’t just a place to get married; it’s a place to create lifelong memories. Whether you’re looking for a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, Tuscany’s combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and luxurious venues makes it the perfect wedding destination.
Wedding in Tuscany ©Maria Bryzhko Wedding Photographer in Italy
Dream Destination: How Much Does a Wedding at Lake Como Cost?
Dream Destination: How Much Does a Wedding at Lake Como Cost?
Congratulations on choosing Lake Como for your wedding! Known for its breathtaking landscapes and luxurious ambiance, Lake Como offers some of the most enchanting venues to make your special day unforgettable. Having photographed numerous weddings around Italy, particularly in the Lake Como area for the past three years, I’m excited to share insider information to help couples planning a destination wedding in Italy.
How Much Does a Wedding at Lake Como Cost?
Small Wedding: Up to 50 Guests
Cost Breakdown:
Venue for the Day of the Wedding: $6,000 - $12,000
Wedding Planner: $5,000 - $10,550
Catering: $150 per person
Rentals: $200 per person
Florals: $6,000
Hair and Makeup: $1,000 (estimating 1 total for the bride)
Maria Bryzhko Photography: $4,200
Total Cost: $35,000 - $45,000
Medium-Sized Wedding: Up to 150 Guests
Cost Breakdown:
Venue for the Day of the Wedding: $12,000 - $20,000
Wedding Planner: $5,000 - $10,550
Catering: $150 per person
Rentals: $200 per person
Florals: $12,000
Hair and Makeup: $1,000 (estimating 1 total for the bride)
Maria Bryzhko Photography: $4,700
Total Cost: $87,000 - $100,200
Lake Como Luxury Wedding
Cost Breakdown:
Venue for the Day of the Wedding + Accommodation for 2 Nights: $100,000 - $200,000
Wedding Planner: $20,000 - $59,600
Catering: $300 per person
Rentals: $200 per person
Florals: $30,000
Hair and Makeup: $1,000 (estimating 1 total for the bride)
Maria Bryzhko Photography: $4,700
Total Cost: $165,000 - $310,000
Lake Como Wedding Cost for 150 Guests
Cost Breakdown:
Venue for the Day of the Wedding + Accommodation for 2 Nights: $100,000 - $200,000
Wedding Planner: $20,000 - $75,800
Catering: $300 per person
Rentals: $200 per person
Florals: $60,000
Hair and Makeup: $1,000 (estimating 1 total for the bride)
Maria Bryzhko Photography: $4,700
Total Cost: $260,700 - $399,600
Villas for Lake Como Wedding
Villa Balbianello
Villa Balbianello, situated on a promontory overlooking the lake, is one of the most iconic and romantic venues on Lake Como. Known for its elegant terraced gardens and stunning views, it’s a favorite for weddings.
Pricing: Wedding packages for up to 50 people start at around €7,000 (space rental/chair rental/violin/ceremony), with costs varying up to €40,000 based on the season and specific requirements. Catering starts from €150 per person.
Villa Balbiano
A short boat ride from Villa Balbianello, Villa Balbiano offers historic grandeur and modern luxury. With opulent interiors and expansive gardens, it provides a regal setting for your celebration.
Pricing: Hosting a wedding at Villa Balbiano begins at approximately €70,000, including 3 nights' accommodation for 30 people. For a wedding with 110 guests, expect to spend around €300,000.
Villa Regina Teodolinda
Villa Regina Teodolinda, named after a Lombard queen, is a charming and intimate venue perfect for a romantic wedding. The lush gardens and lakeside setting create a serene and picturesque backdrop.
Pricing: The price for this location is $5,550 + 10% VAT, which includes a one-night stay for 12 guests + breakfast.
Villa Gilgal
For a contemporary vibe, Villa Gilgal combines modern elegance with the natural beauty of Lake Como. With chic interiors and expansive terraces, it offers a sophisticated setting.
Pricing: The price is $5,500 + VAT, which includes a three-night stay for 12 guests with a chef, butler, and housekeeper.
Villa Aura del Lago
Villa Aura del Lago blends classic charm with modern amenities. Its panoramic views provide a breathtaking backdrop for your wedding photos and celebrations.
Pricing: The price is $11,000 for a three-night stay for 16 guests. For just the wedding day + one night, it’s $4,500.
Making Your Dream Wedding a Reality
Choosing the right villa is just the first step in planning your dream wedding on Lake Como. Each villa offers unique charm and options to suit your vision. Whether you desire a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, Lake Como’s stunning villas provide the perfect setting for your special day. Here’s to a wedding filled with love, joy, and the timeless beauty of Lake Como! Cheers to your unforgettable journey ahead.
