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Behind the Shot: Stories behind some of my most popular photos of Florence
Mar
Florence has given me countless unforgettable memories, and recently I found myself revisiting some of them. I’ve basically been searching for some new ideas to write about for my blog, as well as some ideas for some new video content- so I decided it would be a good idea to start scrolling through my IG feed and post archive to see if anything might inspire me. Not long after I started scrolling into the past I thought it would be interesting to share with you some of the images of Florence that got the most likes/engagement in general, and some of the stories behind them.
Some of them might not be my all time favorites from a Travel Photographer’s perspective – or perhaps not through the lens that I view life in this moment – but they are a part of my history so I think it’s also a valuable opportunity to reflect on where I’ve been.
I lived in Florence for over 10 years, and in that time I became fluent in her streets and alleyways, her rooftops, arches and facades. I half-froze in her early winter mornings, and basked in her dramatic summer sunsets.
I hope this post will give you an insightful glimpse into some of the ‘why’ behind why I lived in Florence for so long- and who knows – maybe if you enjoy this post I’ll continue to show more of these types of reflections with you in the future.
Piazza San Firenze
- Date: April 7, 2022
- Time of day: Afternoon
- Location: 43°46’10.1″N, 11°15’27.0″E
- Equipment: Google Pixel 5
- Camera setting: Auto
Scott’s advice:
This is one of those shots where you really need to time it right. The sun was casting this really warm glow over the city, and it had recently rained so there was this perfect mix of lighting that was warm, but not too harsh + the added bonus of Florence’s streets looking even more amazing when they are a bit wet. It’s not one of the most famous piazzas in the city, but I do quite like the scene and often made a point to pass through it while heading home.
What thoughts came to mind when I took this photograph:
At no other time in my life has being connected through technology been as important,
and at the same time having a severe lack of face-to-face interactions with other human beings been more impactful.
It doesn’t matter how many social media platforms we connect through,
or how many services like Netflix and Disney + we have to entertain ourselves.
In order for us to continue to grow and maintain our emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing –
we need face-to-face meaningful interactions with our friends, families, and our broader communities.
Admiring Florence from above – Palazzo Vecchio
- Date: September 2, 2022
- Time of day: Morning
- Location: 43°45’49.1″N, 11°15’49.5″E
- Equipment: Canon 5d Mk IV, Sigma 70-200 f/2.8
- Camera setting: F7.1, 1/160 , ISO 640
Scott’s advice:
The key to getting this shot is waking up early for sunrise, and also walking up to Piazzale Michelangelo when there is a bit of mist and light cloud cover in the sky. There are a few vantage points where you can capture really interesting shots of the city on the sidewinding road that takes you up to the Piazzale. Most people go all the way up to the top – so getting the unique shot might very well be on the way up so be sure to find spaces between the trees to get your shot. A long lens is a must for these photos. At least something that can reach 200mm.
What thoughts came to mind when I took this photograph:
Nothing dresses a space better than a work of art that sparks conversation. This picture is one of my most captivating pieces, both offering a panoramic view of Florence’s historical center.
The warm hues of the city’s rooftops and the iconic skyline create a composition that feels both timeless and immersive.
Every time I revisit these images, I discover a new detail—a window, a balcony, or a shadow that adds depth to the story.
Wandering through San Lorenzo Neighbourhood
- Date: August 20, 2022
- Time of day: Afternoon
- Location: 43°46’34.0″N 11°15’13.2″E
- Equipment: Canon 5d Mk IV, Sigma Art 24-105 f/4
- Camera setting: F6.3, 1/1600 , ISO 500
Scott’s advice:
This is one of the photos that you capture because you just happen to not only stumble upon something due to pure curiosity – but you also happen to just look up. Florence is filled with hidden views and alleyways that can lead you to remarkable and interesting views. My advice is to try to find dead ends and random narrow passageways around town – often they lead you to interesting stuff that you wouldn’t ever normally pass through – and of course – always remember to stop and look up.
What thoughts came to mind when I took this photograph:
For this photo in particular I thought it would be interesting to post a reel challenge on Instagram where I asked my followers to guess where I took this image. No one was able to guess – and here you are – getting the exact location for free 😉 Cheers
Ponte Vecchio in the Sunset
- Date: September 2nd, 2022
- Time of day: Sunset
- Location: 43°46’07.0″N, 11°15’10.8″E
- Equipment: Canon 5d Mk IV, Sigma 70-200 f/2.8
- Camera setting: F7.1, 1/200 , ISO 500
Scott’s advice:
The Ponte Vecchio in Florence is something that might seem stagnant – but in reality it’s always changing. The lighting, the atmosphere, the mood. One could never run out of new ways to take photos of this amazing bridge. Sunny days, stormy days, post stormy days, sunsets, sunrise, fog – you name it. All of these weather a lighting changes can have dramatic effects in general – in this case, it was a sunset after a storm had rolled through. The very definition of perseverance – like continuing to dedicate time to an old friend.
What thoughts came to mind when I took this photograph:
For me, the Ponte Vecchio will always be a symbol of resilience. The ability to keep standing – even when everything around you crumbles.
I took this photo during golden hour, named it Resilient, and I have to say it’s probably one of my favorite photos that I’ve taken of this bridge.
Ponte Vecchio in the morning
- Date: April 18, 2019
- Time of day: Morning
- Location: 43°46’08.6″N, 11°15’01.4″E
- Equipment: Canon 5d Mk IV, Canon 300mm f/2.8 L IS
- Camera setting: F5.6, 1/800 , ISO 320
Scott’s advice:
Here we see the Ponte Vecchio captured in a way that most people cannot – with a 300mm lens. I say use what you have to your advantage – and if you don’t own what you need to produce what you want – then maybe look into renting it, or being smart about how you can use what you already have to achieve the result you want.
For example many people think that APSC cameras aren’t as good at full frame cameras – but when reach is your priority – then using a full frame lens on an APSC camera will get you closer to your subject than with a full frame camera. So which camera is better in that situation? Then you can also consider the amount of mega pixels your camera has and get your subject even closer with some reasonable cropping as long as you’re not compromising image quality. I always prefer to get the image I need with the right tools for the job – but when you can either get the shot or not – sometimes thinking on your feet and being creatively professional with what you have is super valuable.
What thoughts came to mind when I took this photograph:
Does the Ponte Vecchio ever get “vecchio”?
Like what you’re seeing so far? Click here to see the full collection.
A Personal Connection to Santa Croce
- Date: September 2, 2022
- Time of day: Sunrise
- Location: 43°46’08.9″N, 11°15’39.4″E
- Equipment: Canon 5d Mk IV, Canon 50mm F1.2L
- Camera setting: F7.1, 1/320 , ISO 500
Scott’s advice:
Santa Croce is notoriously difficult to capture in creative ways. I lived essentially in front of it for like 5 years and I’m telling you – it’s not an easy church to capture. In this specific case I woke up just before sunrise and luckily there was some nice clouds in the sky that captured the vibrant colors of that particular morning.
The challenge with Santa Croce that you don’t see with many churches is that the light is almost always working against you – in this case – thankfully, the light worked with me a bit so that I could capture this beautiful – albeit a little underexposed image. For me the sky was more important – and can you blame me? 😉
What thoughts came to mind when I took this photograph:
Florence wakes up slowly, just like me.
One of the churches I photographed a lot is the stunning Santa Croce church. Over the years, I realized I needed more images of this incredible architecture, so I dedicated myself to capturing it in new ways.
Now, my collection includes three new shots of Santa Croce, each reflecting a different time of day and mood.
Santa Croce from a different angle
- Date: September 2, 2022
- Time of day: Morning
- Location: 43°45’53.3″N, 11°15’59.6″E
- Equipment: Canon 5d Mk IV, Sigma 70-200 f/2.8
- Camera setting: F7.1, 1/400 , ISO 640
Scott’s advice:
Another perfect example of why it pays to capture Florence at Sunrise – and also why it pays to get out there and walk around beyond the touristy paths and routes. This photo wasn’t taken very far outside of the main historic city center – but it’s a great example of why it pays to explore and to try to get lost in places like this. Why it’s worth your time to try to get away from your subjects so you can see things from a different perspective.
What thoughts came to mind when I took this photograph:
“When your eyes open, and you think it’s still but a dream.” To say that Florence is a culturally rich city is a gross understatement. Literally every inch of Florence has a story to tell.
This photograph tells a story that so many of us can relate to—the feeling of exploring a city for the first time, the excitement of discovering the unknown.
Duomo di Firenze
- Date: September 2, 2022
- Time of day: Morning
- Location: 43°46.3326’N, 11°15.4242’E
- Equipment: Canon 5D MK IV , Sigma 70-200 f/2.8
- Camera setting: F11.0 , 1/250 , ISO 500
Scott’s advice:
Look up, Look up, Look up! I lived in Piazza del Duomo for 2.5 years and I will never run out of reasons to stop and take more pictures of this amazing structure. I still pinch myself whenever I see it.
What thoughts came to mind when I took this photograph:
”I’ve lived in Florence for ~11 years now, and it still surprises me when some people don’t understand why I would live here for so long. How about a nearly unlimited supply of beauty and inspiration within walking distance?”
Like this shot? Explore similar in my collection of framed prints.
Santa Maria del Fiore
- Date: September 2, 2022
- Time of day: Morning
- Location: 43°46.3326’N, 11°15.4242’E
- Equipment: Canon 5D MK IV, Sigma 70-200 f/2.8
- Camera setting: F6.3, 1/640, ISO400
Scott’s advice:
I can’t tell you how long I took to try to line up this shot as perfectly as I could. Sometimes trying to be too perfect pays off, and sometimes it really doesn’t. Sometimes our inner desires for perfection clouds our ability to create art and capture beautiful things. Life isn’t perfect, but there is grace in the patience required to sit still and try to capture the moment that you’re in – to slow down and really be fully present.
What thoughts came to mind when I took this photograph:
Ever since I arrived in Italy, Florence has been my beacon of Inspiration. From the people I’ve met here, to the iconic architecture and rich cultural history that permeates throughout this place. It’s impossible to feel anything but inspired while walking through these streets and seeing views like this. Non mi stancherò mai della bellezza di Firenze.
Details of the Duomo
- Date: April 2, 2021
- Time of day: Afternoon
- Location: 43°46.3326’N, 11°15.4242’E
- Equipment: Canon 5d Mk IV, Sigma 70-200 f/2.8
- Camera setting: F5.6, 1/3200 , ISO 800
Scott’s advice:
Florence is filled with all these nooks and hidden archways exposing parts of the Duomo and other famous buildings all over the place. This shot in particular caught my eye – literally stopped me in my tracks as I was rushing from one place to another. A prime example of why Florence deserves more of your time that maybe you had originally thought.
What thoughts came to mind when I took this photograph:
Seeing another perspective is truly a gift.
Campanile di Giotto
- Date: August, 20, 2022
- Time of day: Afternoon
- Location: 43°46.4896’N, 11°15.4193’E
- Equipment: Canon 5d Mk IV, Sigma Art 24-105 F4
- Camera setting: F6.3, 1/640 , ISO 400
Scott’s advice:
One day I decided I was going to walk to a part of town I normally don’t visit and then zig and zag my way back towards the center to try to see if I could capture any other perspectives that I might have missed during my years living in the city. Sure enough – I found this one, amongst many others. Even though I had walked down this street maybe hundreds of times before – I had never before captured this shot. Yet another reason to just get out there with your camera in hand and expect to capture the unexpected.
What thoughts came to mind when I took this photograph:
”Developing an online business is a lot of work. Gaby constantly tells me I do the amount of work that entire teams of people should be doing. I’m constantly stressed about the amount of things that aren’t finished yet – how behind I feel in getting things done, or wishing I had started things sooner, etc. etc. It’s hard not to focus on results, and the minutia vs. remembering to always step back and see the big picture.
I constantly need to keep reminding myself that my website, online store, blog, and social presence are all really still in their infancy. ‘My little seedlings beginning to sprout out of the earth.’ I’m doing great work, and everything will happen in due time when they are supposed to – and not a day sooner. I need to continue to love that – to continue to love the process.”
Piazza della Signoria
- Date: September 2, 2022
- Time of day: Morning
- Location: 43°46’08.5″N, 11°15’20.9″E
- Equipment: Canon 5D MK IV , Sigma 70-200 f/2.8
- Camera setting: F11.0 , 1/250 , ISO 500
Scott’s advice:
This shot is all about angles, and the fact that I was using a longer lens than is usually used to capture this scene. It’s actually quite a unique shot and ended up being quite popular as it’s not one that many people – if any besides me have produced. Timing, the correct gear, and the inspiration to capture a new angle of a timeless group of subjects.
What thoughts came to mind when I took this photograph:
We live in the shadows of greatness, all lighting our candles to try to inspire the world. Still can’t believe it takes me less than 5 minutes to walk here.
Florence isn’t just about architecture—it’s about the stories behind its monuments. These sculptures symbolize the greatness and mythology of the city, and capturing them in my own way was a challenge I loved taking on.
Standing in the Piazza della Signoria, surrounded by history and artistry, I felt an overwhelming sense of admiration for the genius of Florence’s past.
Thank You for Supporting Art
I hope you’ve enjoyed this blog post and found the stories behind some of my most popular Florence shots interesting. I also hope it’s inspired you to capture the city—or whatever surrounds you—through your own lens, even in everyday moments.
Reflecting on past work has been fascinating for me as a photographer, seeing what resonated then versus what connects with people now. Social media is always evolving, and I continue to challenge myself to stay creative, trust my instincts, and immerse myself in the places I photograph, capturing their essence in a meaningful way.
Thank you for reading and for being part of this journey. I’d love to hear from you—what’s your favorite city or place that inspires you? Let’s chat in the comments or on social media!
Cheers,
Scott
