Wedding Photography at Fairytale Castello di Vincigliata, Florence
Anyone who knows me, knows that I adore photographing weddings in Italy . And so it was that I found myself preparing to photograph Nichola and Adam’s wedding at Castello di Vincigliata in Florence.
Bringing to a close a marathon run of weddings I knew that there were some risks attached to this day. Nichola and Adam had specifically requested me as their wedding photographer. We met after I had photographed their pre-wedding shoot in Florence. They were first prize winners in a pre-wedding shoot competition that I ran! It was a great honour but oh the sleepless nights! My journey involved a flight to Florence on Sunday lunchtime, to get to the venue in time for the 3.15 kick off. Believe me when I say that I pushed my planning capabilities and road knowledge to the limit! Normally I arrive in Florence at least a day ahead, if not longer.
Having broken the record to get through customs my perfect timing came to a speedy stop. The hire car company had no record of my booking! Having sorted that out, in true Florentine style they told me the wrong area for my hire car location. But a sprint round the car park soon located it! Increasing in comedic content by the minute I then set off in my little shiny car only to be thwarted again at the exit. A polite Canadian chap had parked at the exit to ask for directions! (the hire car company had lost his satellite navigation request). With time pressing there was no other option left to me. In my best English accent out came the shout ‘mate get a shift on I have a wedding to photograph!’. Both the Italian gateman and the by now bemused Canadian cleared the way as I did a rally style exit out of the airport. I only hope our Canadian friend had experienced Europe before. Otherwise I fear he may think that Europe is completely bohemian, devoid of any basic manners!
My blood pressure returning to normal I relaxed. After all, I still have plenty of time and I know the way there. But clearly the gods were not with me – the road to the Castle from the direction I was coming was closed! By now I was seeing distraught brides and refunds looming. However, the gods decided I had suffered enough and presented to me a trio of elderly gentlemen. Passing the time of day on their village bench, I would have photographed them if I had the time. As it was, they helped me see a way through and presto I arrived on time for this Castello di Vincigliata Wedding!
So, onto the photography itself; Castello di Vincigliata is set high in the Florentine hills and provides a magnificent backdrop for any wedding. It has a beautiful if sad legend attached to it; a beautiful young girl Bianca fell in love with a handsome young man. Sadly he was the son of her family’s arch rival. They planned to marry. But, as she waited for him on their wedding day her brothers abducted and killed him in front of her. She of course died of a broken heart still wearing her wedding gown. Her spirit is said to roam the castle walls protecting those who are in love…
I soon forgot about traumas and legends as I got to work. But, we did opt to stay within the castle grounds for Nicola and Adam’s romantic photos. With the heat, getting in the car to the nearby olive groves lost its appeal for everyone. The light during the heat of the day can also be quite harsh. But the ‘magic hour’ as dusk approaches is amazing. The light softens and takes on beautiful deep hue. I chose that time to get the more intimate shots of Nicola and Adam together. The architecture of Castello di Vincigliata and views over Florence is a stunning backdrop.
So, as daylight became dusk it was time to celebrate with cake and dancing. In Italy they make a traditional fruit ‘cake’ like a Millefeuille in front of the guests. Great fun!
And as night fell, it was time to dance the night away under the stars. With Florence in the background and a thousand cicadas chirruping, what a beautiful night. For me it’s time to re-hydrate and finally cool down.
Until next time enjoy the Nicola and Adam’s beautiful wedding at Castello di Vincigliata.
Io spero ritornare a Firenze presto……..
P.S. Photographers, NEVER try to take your tripod as hand luggage through Florence Airport. Currently they will make you check it in and charge you 90 Euro for the privilege.
Are you planning a Fairytale Castello di Vincigliata Wedding?
If you’re planning a Castello di Vincigliata wedding, or for that matter anywhere in Italy, and like this style of relaxed wedding photography why not give me a call 0370 626 5200, drop me an email, or use the Contact Form to get in touch, I’d love to hear your wedding day.