A Few Photos

The highlights of Rome lend themselves to some very nice photography. Visitors who take the time to step beyond the traditional “snapshot” vacation photos, will also find that photography enriches their appreciation of the city. It also opens doors to new friendships with locals.

Obviously, we plan our travels around seeing the best of a location, and when it’s best to create a photo. We suggest that visitors do the same thing. Early morning and late afternoon not only provide the optimum natural light for photos in Rome, but they are generally the last populated times at most places.

capitoline museum
Tourist shoots photo at Capitoline Museum

This is when the Romans are about visiting the local market, walking to work or enjoying some of the famous attractions themselves. We walk completely around an attraction, looking for a different way to shoot a photo, and often discover something interesting to see that isn’t covered in the guidebooks.

A note of caution about photography in Rome. A few of the popular museums, galleries, churches and shops do not allow photography or video camera use inside their properties. Warning signs are usually posted outside. The Sistine Chapel posts guards to ensure these wishes are followed. If you ask about the policy, the response will be something to do with copyright or deterioration caused by flash. The real truth is they don’t want the disruption camera bugs often cause other visitors, and they want you to purchase their books, postcards and prints. Keep in mind that it’s better to learn the Italian language from inside a restaurant than inside a police station.

Sorriso (sorry-so) is Italian for smile. Use the word when shooting photos in markets, cafes and tourist shops. You’ll get better photos and make a few new friends in the process.