Photographer in Ravello — Photo Sessions Above the Amalfi Coast
Ravello sits 350 metres above the sea, on a ridge between two valleys. The light here is different from the coast below — softer, more horizontal, with views that stretch all the way to Salerno. Villa Cimbrone's Terrace of Infinity and Villa Rufolo's gardens are two of the most beautiful portrait backdrops in Italy.
Why a photo session in Ravello
Ravello is the only place on the Amalfi Coast that’s truly above the action. From the village square you look down on the gulf of Salerno from 350 metres up — boats become specks, the curve of the coast unfolds below, and the light has the long, horizontal quality you only get at altitude.
It’s also where two of Italy’s most photographed gardens are: Villa Cimbrone, with the Terrace of Infinity at its end, and Villa Rufolo, with its tower garden of bougainvillea framing the sea. Both have been shot for editorial fashion, weddings and films for decades — and both still photograph well today.
How a Ravello session usually goes
I generally suggest meeting at Piazza Vescovado, the main square. Parking is right below it, the cafés make a nice waiting spot if you arrive early, and the cathedral facade gives a beautiful warm-stone backdrop.
From there we walk to Villa Cimbrone (about 10 minutes through residential streets — quiet, scenic, worth photographing on the way). Inside the villa we move along the cypress avenue towards the Terrace of Infinity, which faces directly south over the sea. The marble busts at the edge of the terrace are the iconic frame; the surrounding gardens give a dozen quieter alternatives.
If we have time and you’ve bought entry to both, we visit Villa Rufolo afterwards — its tower garden is smaller but more intimate, and the bougainvillea (May to October) is spectacular.
We can also shoot Ravello without entering the villas at all. The village itself — Via San Giovanni del Toro, the small piazzas, the cathedral — is plenty for an Express Session.
Practical notes
- Entry fees. Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo each charge their own ticket. Buy them at the gate — no need to book ahead unless it’s a Sunday in peak season.
- Drive time. Allow 25 minutes from Amalfi, 45 minutes from Positano. The road has tight switchbacks; I recommend a taxi rather than driving yourself if you’re not used to coastal mountain roads.
- Weather. Ravello is high enough that early morning can be cool even in summer — bring a light layer if we’re starting before 9 AM.
- Wind. The Terrace of Infinity catches wind. Long fabric (dresses, scarves) photographs beautifully there but choose accessories you don’t mind moving.
Edited images delivered via private gallery within five to seven days.
Best photo spots — Ravello
Session Packages
Express Session
One iconic location — up to 45 minutes of shooting, up to 50 professionally edited images.
Signature Photo Walk
2–3 stunning locations along the coast, up to 1.5 hours of shooting, up to 100 edited images.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entry fee at Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo?
Yes — both villas charge a small entrance fee per person (around €10 each). It's not included in the session price. We can shoot a beautiful Ravello session entirely outside the villas (in the village and the surrounding streets) if you'd rather skip them.
Do we need permission to photograph inside the villas?
For ordinary couple/family portraits without large gear or staging, no special permit is required. The villas treat it the same as any visitor with a camera. Wedding shoots and commercial productions need a paid permit, which I'll handle for you if relevant.
How do we get to Ravello?
Ravello is a 25-minute drive uphill from Amalfi (or a SITA bus from the same station). I usually meet you at the main square (Piazza Vescovado) — it's easy to find and parking is just below it.
Can we combine Ravello with a coast town in one session?
Logistically possible only if we have time — the drive each way adds 30+ minutes. For a single session I recommend Ravello on its own. Couples staying for several days often book one session in Ravello and one in Positano or Amalfi.
Is the Terrace of Infinity worth the entry fee?
For most couples, yes. It's one of the most photographed views in Italy for a reason — and unlike the coastal villages, it's elevated, open, and quiet for most of the day. If your trip has any element of celebration (anniversary, honeymoon, proposal), it's a good investment.
Let's create something beautiful
Ready to capture your Amalfi Coast story? Reach out to book your session or ask any questions.