Lake Como, Italy. What is more iconic on Lake Como than a boat shoot, out on the open water? That mysterious, magical sunlight. It is other worldly. It is the epitome of luxury.
I styled this shoot with some of my favorites – M. Dumas & Sons for him, Daalarna Couture for her. Alessandro Mancini Studios created the amazing hair and makeup for Giulia, and Eden Luxe Bridal’s accessories complemented the look. We rented a boat from the five-star luxury Grand Hotel Tremezzo, located on the west side of the lake near many of the iconic Lake Como villas.
Their boat and driver met us at their dock and took us out on a leisurely and scenic ride, making sure we were placed in front of the oh so gorgeous Villa Balbianello – another stunning Lake Como gem known for its many cinematic credits. We also traveled up the lake just a little to Bellagio, the triangular tip of the land right on the middle of the famous lake, which made a gorgeous backdrop with its store fronts and classic Italian architecture.
We shot in mid-afternoon when the sun was still high up and full. It provided the perfect lighting I love to shoot in; that full sun gives such a special and dreamy feel to the photos. It breathes life in to them, illuminating them with a certain je ne sais quoi that is so important to the way I photograph.
Storytelling is so important for me to do every time I photograph, as well as giving each photograph the unique ability to evoke feelings from the onlookers. This was a story of two loves celebrating life and their love for one another on Lake Como, Italy. They enjoy the peacefulness of just being in one another’s company. They can feel relaxed and at ease without feeling the need to say a word. They have the ability to make the whole world disappear from them and focus solely on the other, letting the other know no one is more important.
Celebration and fun are also just as important, as they love to make each other laugh. Towards the end of our boat ride was the perfect time to break open the Prosecco and enjoy some of those fun moments.
This was such a memorable afternoon spent together creating memories and enjoying life. Lake Como has a way of making one stop the business and demands of life and slow down to just breathe life in and experience it.
Being on Lake Como means being surrounded by endless beauty, amazing food, and welcoming people along every part of the 146 square kilometers it has to offer.
>Written By: Amy Mulder
Photography, Planning & Styling: Amy Mulder Photography, Charleston, SC