Planning a trip to Rome and want to book a Rome family photographer? Keep scrolling to check out my tips for finding an affordable Rome photographer for your next Rome vacation!
This post about tips for finding an affordable Rome photographer was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Rome was the first international city I visited when I was growing up, so it has a special place in my heart.
As soon as we booked our most recent trip to Rome with kids, I knew I wanted to commemorate it with a photo shoot!
Rome in the summer can be crowded and I’m so glad we booked our photo shoot in Rome because our Rome photographer knew exactly how to avoid the crowds and find the coolest photo spots!
Keep scrolling to see what our photo shoot in Rome was like and my tips for success!
Don’t have time to read a bunch of Rome blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Rome with kids.
Popular Rome Tours/Activities
- Golf Cart Tour (this is a great way to sightsee without having to walk everywhere)
- Skip-The-Line Colosseum for Families Tour (definitely the way to go)
- Rome Gladiator School (seriously, the best Rome activity for my kids)
- Family Vatican Highlight Scavenger Hunt (great way to keep kids engaged)
- Rome Tour for Kids with Gelato & Pizza (tasty tour for families)
- Flytographer photo shoot (they are easy to book and really affordable)
Kid-Friendly Rome Hotels
- Parlamento Boutique Hotel (easy walk to the Trevi Fountain and has free WiFi and A/C)
- Il Campo Marzio (easy walk to Trevi Fountain and Pantheon and has free WiFi and A/C)
- Charme Spagna Boutique Hotel (they have a family suite and have free WiFi and A/C)
- Hotel Scalinata di Spagna (offers free breakfast, A/C, and WiFi)
- Hotel Manfredi Suite in Rome (great location with lots of family rooms, free WiFi and A/C)
Why are Rome Family Photos Important?
I’ve visited Rome in the past and I always regretted not spending the time and money to get “good” shots of our family.
I mostly have slightly blurry iPhone pics of my kids and awkward selfies (so I’d get in some of the photos).
Our kids are growing up so quickly and each trip we do with them is unique and special. They aren’t going to look the same or even act the same at any other moment in time.
These are the memories I want to look back on.
Hiring a professional photographer in Rome is one of the best ways to capture amazing photos of your entire family.
Why You Should Hire a Rome Vacation Photographer Through Flytographer
1. SECRET INSIDER TIPS
Our photographer Guido took us through a gate to a little hill where we could get great photos of the Colosseum without a single person in the background! I never would have found that on my own.
He also got us super close to the backside of the Roman Forum in a spot that I wouldn’t have known how to get to.
Plus, he gave us a recommendation for a great cafe to get coffee and pastries after our Rome photo session.
2. POSING HELP
Local photographers always know where to go and the types of poses that work well for each location.
He helped us turn our faces and bodies to maximize the light and know if we needed to squeeze together more or spread out.
He also gave us a lot of direction on exactly how to walk as a family to make it seem natural and effortless.
3. CAN LEAVE YOUR GEAR AT HOME
My husband tends to haul around a big orange backpack with his camera gear. It gets heavy and while he can get great photos of the kids, it’s not easy to get family photos.
When you hire a professional photographer in Rome, you can leave your own gear at home. But I still recommend hanging onto your phone so you can snap a selfie in cool spots!
4. THEY ARE FUN + EASY!
Our photographer Guido encouraged our boys to do lots of jumping shots, which kept them pretty engaged! He also sent them on secret missions and let them climb on things.
I love it when photographers understand how to work with kids and keep them engaged and happy!
Top Rome Photography Spots
The Roman Forum
This is the route we chose because I really wanted to capture our modern family with the history of the Roman Forum and the Colosseum in the background.
I figured our photos would scream “I’m in Rome!”
The Pantheon and Streets of Rome
Another famous Rome attraction is the Pantheon and it’s a popular photo spot. If you choose this route, you’ll also have the option to head to the Trevi Fountain.
The Vatican
How many people can say they did a photo shoot in the world’s smallest nation? This is the religious heart of Italy and there are tons of cool architectural backdrops in St. Peter’s Square.
Monti Neighborhood
If you’re looking for something that is further away from the crowds, you might consider wandering around the piazzas and streets of Monti. It’s an artsy neighborhood.
Trinità dei Monti, the Pincio & Villa Borghese
This is another interesting route away from some of the more popular spots. It’s great for people who’d like the entire city as their backdrop.
Trastevere
This is a trendy spot for foodies, but it’s also just a cool part of town. You’ll find tons of adorable Roman streets.
Trevi Fountain and The Pantheon
You’ll definitely want to book a very early morning photo shoot if you choose this route to avoid the crowds. But, it will totally be worth it!
How to Book Affordable Rome Photographers
Over the years, we’ve had the opportunity to work with numerous vacation photographers. However, some of our most unforgettable experiences have been captured by Flytographer.
Essentially, Flytographer is a one-stop vacation photography platform where you can locate photographers in nearly every corner of the globe, Rome included.
In fact, they boast an extensive network of photographers throughout Italy. Find the best prices here.
Flytographer streamlines the process of selecting the ideal family photographer in Rome. The platform enables you to explore each photographer’s unique style, learn about their favored hidden locations for shoots, and even peruse their online portfolio before you finalize your booking.
It’s an incredibly user-friendly process to ensure you find the perfect match for your needs.
The booking procedure through Flytographer is straightforward and speedy — all it takes is a single click to select your desired dates.
Flytographer will handle the task of checking availability, eliminating any stress associated with finding an open date or time slot.
They’ll return to you with more information on the most suitable options, making the whole process completely hassle-free! And there are a ton of photographers in Rome Italy to choose from.
What I love most about Flytographer is that they are FAST! We sometimes receive our photos before the end of our trip! I love looking at them on our flight home.
What to Wear for Your Rome Photo Shoot
Of course, you can totally wear whatever you want for your Rome family photos. But, I know some people like to get ideas, so I’m listing a few options to add to your Rome packing list to make your photos look cohesive.
Comfortable Footwear
Rome is a city best explored on foot and many historic areas feature cobblestone streets. Choose stylish yet comfortable shoes.
I ended up wearing flat leather sandals and I was comfortable and felt cute.
Classic and Elegant
Rome is synonymous with style. Think classic, elegant pieces that will stand the test of time just like the city itself. A little black dress or a crisp white shirt paired with classic trousers would work well.
We also saw a family dressed up in evening wear (like sparkly dresses) at 7:00 a.m. and it also worked really well!
Layers and Lightweight Materials
Rome can get very hot, especially in the summer. Layer lightweight materials for versatility and comfort.
Color and Prints
Don’t be afraid to incorporate color into your outfits. Warm colors like terracotta, cream, and olive green can complement the city’s architecture.
We ended up wearing shades of blue because that’s what we had that was easily cohesive.
In hindsight, I probably should have considered a bright red dress or something that would “pop” against the neutral colors in Rome.
Accessorize
When in Rome, accessorize like the Romans! A pair of chic sunglasses, a stylish handbag, or a scarf can add a touch of Italian flair to your ensemble.
Respect for Religious Sites
If you plan on shooting in or near religious sites like the Vatican, ensure your attire is respectful and adheres to their dress code (shoulders and knees should be covered).
7 Tips for Getting Awesome Rome Family Pictures Every Time
1. Bring an Adapter for Hair Tools
If you’re planning on doing your hair, you’ll want to make sure any hair tools have dual voltage and you’ll want to bring an adapter.
2. You’ll Want to do Full Makeup
Even if you don’t normally wear a lot of makeup, you might want to do some for your Rome photography session. That’s because it’s so easy to get washed out.
I recommend at least doing lipstick. Doing a full face of foundation also helps, especially if you might have gotten a bit of sun during the trip.
3. Think About Your Outfits
I highly recommend figuring out coordinating outfits a week or two before your trip to Rome. Check the weather so you’re dressed appropriately. And make sure everyone tries everything on.
We usually do variations of one color, two complimentary colors, or pastel rainbow colors. For this shoot, we did different shades of blue.
4. Figure out the Best Time of Day for Your Family
Typically, sunrise and sunset are the best lighting for photos. Our family tends to be early risers (for the most part) so we usually pick the early morning shoots for the fewest crowds.
But, sunset is also a lovely time, especially for families who like to sleep in. It will also give you plenty of time to get ready with hair, makeup, and outfits.
5. Choose Your Route Carefully
I suggest scrolling on Instagram to see what types of Rome photos catch your eye or resonate the most with you. Then, figure out where they are located so you can pick the right route.
Flytographer makes it super easy because you can click through the routes to see all the photographers photos and see which route and photographer you like the best.
I knew I wanted photos with the Colosseum and things that screamed “Rome” to me. That’s why we chose our route.
6. Add an Incentive For Your Kids
I know that a lot of kids don’t love doing photo shoots, especially at the crack of dawn. So, I recommend offering your kids some sort of incentive.
My kids loved Pokemon cards on this trip, so they earned Italian language Pokemon cards. We also promised that they could order anything they wanted for breakfast (so they had cookies from a bakery).
7. Think About Props
If you’re shooting in the evening, you could include pizza or gelato near the end of your shoot. Photos with food can be a lot of fun, especially with kids!
Another idea is to incorporate a Vespa. You can either rent them or see if you could pose with one for a few shots.
One Rome prop idea that I didn’t think about until after the fact is an old map or guidebook. That would have been cute in historical spots like the Roman Forum and the Colosseum.
How to Hire a Photographer in Rome Italy FAQs
How much is a photographer in Rome?
You might expect to pay anywhere from 200 to 500 Euros for a private photoshoot in Rome Italy.
Can you take photos in Rome?
Yes, you can take photos in most public areas of Rome. The city is filled with iconic landmarks and picturesque scenery, making it a haven for photographers.
Do be mindful of privacy laws and regulations pertaining to certain locations like museums or religious sites. Always check the rules and respect any “no photography” signs.
Where can I take pictures in Rome?
Rome offers a wealth of opportunities for photography. Some of the best spots include the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, St. Peter’s Square and Basilica in Vatican City, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps, and the Trevi Fountain.
For unique views of the city, consider visiting the Palatine Hill, the Aventine Hill (particularly the Aventine Keyhole), or the top of Castel Sant’Angelo.
Can you take photos in front of the Trevi fountain?
Yes, you can take photos in front of the Trevi Fountain. It’s one of the most photographed sites in Rome.
However, it can get crowded, especially during the peak tourist season for a Rome photoshoot. So you might want to plan your visit early in the morning or late in the evening for the best photo opportunities.
Can you take photos on the Spanish Steps?
Yes, you can take photos on the Spanish Steps. They’re a popular spot for photography due to their historic charm and the beautiful views they offer of the Piazza di Spagna below.
Please remember to be respectful, as they are an important historical site. Sitting on the Spanish Steps is forbidden, so it’s best to photograph them from the bottom or top.
How to Hire a Rome Photographer Wrap Up
The Eternal City holds so much history and charm that the mere act of capturing its beauty is an art in itself.
It is home to some of the world’s most stunning ancient wonders, providing a backdrop unlike any other for your family photographs.
Finding an affordable local photographer who can balance the grandeur of the city with the intimate, best moments of your family can seem daunting.
Yet, as we’ve discussed in this blog, it’s entirely feasible.
Local photographers have an innate understanding of Rome’s light, its history, and its rhythm. They can transform these elements into digital photos, bringing out your family’s unique dynamics against the city’s ancient allure.
Remember, the best photographs are not only visually pleasing, but they also tell stories.
When captured by the right photographer, these beautiful photos will forever remind you of your time in Rome – a blend of your personal joys and the timeless splendor of the Eternal City.
Looking for more Rome travel inspiration? Check out my top Rome travel tips, how to spend 3 days in Rome with kids, things to do in Rome with kids, where to stay in Rome with kids, is it worth visiting the Vatican with kids, how to become a gladiator for a day, how to spend 10 days in Italy with kids, tips for visiting Italy with kids, best Rome tours for families, Europe travel tips, and best day trips from Rome!
