A Luxury Wedding Photographer’s Take on Weddings in Tuscany
From the UK to Tuscany!
by Tom Keenan, Kent-based wedding photographer
From the terracotta rooftops to the warmth of golden hour light—everything I’ve come to experience in Rome suggests that Tuscany, a few hours up the country, is the kind of place that would be amazing to host a wedding. For a couple based anywhere in the UK, it's good to have some background information on destination weddings, and as a luxury wedding photographer based here, I'd love to give you a luxury wedding photographer's take on weddings in Tuscany.
Why Tuscany Captivates Me as a Photographer
As a wedding photographer, I’m always looking for more than just a pretty location. I'm way more interested in the unique couple and photographing them in a timeless, authentic way. Having said that, what draws me in with Tuscany is the sense of history, of light and of space for people to be. What I mean by that from what I’ve seen and studied, is that Tuscany offers all of that and more because it's unique and spacious. The visual appeal alone is undeniable: sun-soaked vineyards, rolling hills that blush gold at dusk, ancient stone villages that feel unchanged for centuries. Yet it's how the different venues make you feel which will help guide your decision on whether to wed there or not.
I say the same to my couples that I photograph down in Kent or Cambridge, go with your gut on the places that you view and the suppliers that you connect with. The venue will be a place where you spend the best part of a day with, and the suppliers, particularly the planner and photographer, will be at hand for most of that time too. Make sure they feel like family!
Similar to Rome, it seems like there’s a rhythm to the Tuscan landscape that feels both grand and grounded. It invites you to slow down, to wander, to soak it in. The reality is, it'll be like you're on holiday if you're from the UK. That kind of summer break environment is a dream from a creative perspective. I’m not the sort of photographer who’s chasing perfection or forced poses—I’m far more interested in genuine connection, the kind of unrepeatable moment that happens when people feel completely themselves. And Tuscany, from what I know, sets the perfect scene for that kind of storytelling.
Even through the lens of second shooting in Rome, what struck me most was the mood of the country. The soft sounds of the wind in the olive trees, the way the wind lifts the linen tablecloths at dinner (but doesn't blow it to the next town like it can in England!), the smell of rosemary focaccia and sun-warmed earth—it all leaves a mark. There’s something beautiful about it which you have to experience yourself.
What Makes Tuscany Unique for Destination Weddings?
One of the most appealing aspects of Tuscany is that there is a blend of beauty and ease. It’s not just postcard-pretty—it’s inherently romantic, and when you pick a venue there, everything will be happening in one place. You're not having to drive from an Airbnb bridal prep location to the ceremony venue, to the reception party - you're already there.
From the outside looking in, it’s easy to imagine a wedding in Tuscany as a grand, stylised affair—I know before I was a second shooter for Olly Knight in Italy, I thought it would feel a bit out there. But the reality is that there’s something wonderfully laid-back about being on holiday with all of your friends and family, knowing they don't have to drive home to work the next day. In terms of style, whether it’s a vineyard with festoon lighting and barefoot dancing, or a rustic hilltop villa with a long table dinner under the stars, like Rome Tuscany, should have the ability to feel elevated without feeling overdone.
And despite its dreamy appearance, it’s not as out of reach as you might think. Flights from Gatwick to Florence or Pisa are regular and relatively quick. It’s the kind of journey that feels like an adventure without being exhausting, and once you arrive, everything just slows into a more gentle pace. When I flew to Rome, I made sure that I just had on board luggage so that when we arrived in Rome, we could just jump in a taxi with guests and drive directly to the location. I recommend this over hiring a car any day!
A Photographer’s Vision: What I’d Love to Capture in Tuscany
If I were to photograph a wedding in Tuscany, my heart would be set on capturing the ease of it all. I’d look for authentic moments in the warmth of late afternoon light—friends laughing over pizza, kids running barefoot through olive groves, parents welling up during speeches at dusk. You know, the meaningful stuff.
I’m forever drawn to natural, unposed portraits. Timeless images that won’t feel out of place in 50 years, but also aren’t stiff or directed. In a place like Tuscany, where the environment already does so much of the work, that approach feels even more fitting. I’d embrace the sunlight (and the challenge of it!), finding shady spots when needed, but also leaning into the contrast when it looks fashionable.
What I love most is when couples trust me to be friends with their guests—it helps me notice things they might miss in the moment. A grandmother having a quiet moment being nostalgic, a guest couple stealing a cuddle on cobblestones, the way the sun flickers through a lace veil. These are the moments I treasure most in my work.
The Case for a Multi-Day Wedding Experience
One of the biggest differences between UK weddings and destination weddings, from what I’ve gathered and seen through second shooting, is the space around the main event. In the UK, it’s often a tight timeline: everything packed into a single, sometimes stressful day. In Tuscany or any other destination? You’ve got breathing room.
A long weekend—three nights at minimum, but ideally more—completely transforms the vibe. Guests are relaxed, there's time to savour each moment, and there’s a natural flow to the whole experience. From a photographer’s perspective, this opens up the opportunity to document not just the ceremony and party, but the atmosphere in full. Not only that, your family and friends begin to treat me more like a friend than a chap with a camera.
If I were to photograph a Tuscany wedding, I’d love to arrive the day before at least. I’d bring a small, unobtrusive camera (and a film camera too), and gently blend into the welcome dinner—capturing that initial buzz of excitement, the hugs, the jet-lagged laughter. It’s also a brilliant way to get to know everyone before the wedding day, so people feel even more comfortable in front of the lens. I would note down important family members, friends that have travelled far, and people that seem to bring the life and soul to the party.
And the day after? I’d stay for that too. Whether it’s a relaxed brunch by the pool, or a farewell picnic among the vines, it’s often in these slower, quieter pockets that some of the most honest, heartfelt images appear. Again, these slightly more relaxed moments make sense to bring a small film camera and dslr - it's amazing what you can get with basic but trusty kit.
Practical Tips from a Destination Photography Point of View
Having second shot at a wedding in Italy before, I’ve picked up a few useful lessons for couples planning a celebration abroad. First and foremost: travel light, but smart. I always bring a backup camera, a carefully chosen selection of lenses, and plenty of storage—both digital and film. For film, though this is mostly important for photographers, you’ll want to make sure it's properly protected when going through airport scanners (yes, it’s still a thing!).
And while it might sound obvious, having a photographer who’s calm, prepared, and comfortable with travel logistics can make a huge difference. Destination weddings aren’t just about showing up with a camera—they’re about adapting, anticipating, and embracing the unique pace and energy of the setting.
A Note on Faith, Food, and Feeling at Home
Something I love about the idea of a Tuscan wedding—especially for couples with specific values or needs—is how much freedom there seems to be. Many venues are more than happy to accommodate Christian ceremonies or host celebrations that include prayer and worship.
And as a vegan myself, I’m always delighted to see how thoughtful and flavourful the food offerings are in Italy. You’re not compromising—you’re celebrating in a way that truly reflects who you are. Fresh, seasonal ingredients, handmade pasta, platters of grilled vegetables, citrus-dressed salads—you want to make sure you're at peace with what you're going to eat when you're in a different country.
The phrase "non mangio carne né latticini" could come in handy, which basically means "I don't eat meat or dairy" which would be helpful for the chefs and waiters to know!
What I’d Want Couples to Know
The biggest advice I’d give couples booking a destination wedding photographer? Make sure you like them. Not just their photos—their presence. You’ll spend more time with your photographer on the day than almost anyone else. Feeling comfortable with them, laughing with them, trusting them... It’s everything.
Even though I’m currently focusing my bookings on UK weddings, I take all those same values—trust, ease, artistry—and bring them to every wedding I shoot.
Planning a Wedding in Tuscany?
If your heart’s set on Tuscany, I’d recommend reaching out to the incredible team at WedAwai. Martina is lovely and a specialist in destination weddings with a real sense of style and substance. Whether you’re picturing a weekend in a private estate or a celebration in a secluded vineyard, they’ll help you make it happen with grace and authenticity.
And if you’re keeping things closer to home? I’m based in Kent and photograph weddings across the UK with a focus on relaxed, beautiful storytelling. If you’re looking for natural, honest imagery—editorial in style, but super soulful—I’d love to hear from you. Tom x
