Lake Como, that is…

So this post is so behind it’s not even funny, right? Come on now, 2015 and we’re now closing out 2016. This goes to show how one can get sidetracked with amazing weddings we’ve had the pleasure photographing during the last few months. But now I would like to get back to revisiting the beautiful setting that is Italy. In this case one of my all time favorite areas, if not the favorite area in the world, Lake Como, Italy.

Yes, the first thing that comes to mind for most people when mentioning Lake Como is George Clooney. In fact, I remember the first time visiting Lake Como back in 2006. The locals would ask where we are from and I would reply, “America”. Their first comment was for the most part, “George Clooney”. They would always point out where his villa is and give us directions on how to get there from where we were. But to be honest with you, I was never interested in seeing George’s villa. I’m sure it’s nice and all, but it couldn’t be as amazing as what was surrounding us, all you can see and feel while traveling these beautiful, lazy lakeside towns and enjoying its natural beauty is all I wanted to experience. No offense George.

Where is Lake Como?

Lake Como is in Northern Italy’s Lombardy region. It’s an upscale area known for its dramatic scenery. And let me tell you, it IS dramatic. It’s set against the foothills of the Alps if that gives you a better visual. The lake is shaped like an upside-down Y. The three slender branches meet at the well-known and popular resort town of Bellagio.

Below are but a few of the photographs we captured during our few days on the lake.

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How to get around the lake

Ferries are the main mode of transportation between the towns, especially if you need to get to the other side of the lake. We would get up early, enjoy the crisp morning air, grab a cappuccino and head out on an adventure. Don’t you just love the view? The Italian Alps right behind Orlando.italy-lake-como-3 italy-lake-como-4

Below is me getting a little frisky after a wonderful lunch. This area of Italy makes you do weird things in public. It’s so romantic. It helps when you have crazy friends encouraging you too.
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Off to our next stop. The idyllic town of Tremezzo.italy-lake-como-7 italy-lake-como-8

Even on a break from shooting, we find moments to photograph couples. This majestic place…it inspires us.italy-lake-como-9

Back on the ferry again. Off to the pearl of the lake, Bellagio.italy-lake-como-10

Amazing view on the lake, right?italy-lake-como-11 italy-lake-como-12

Below is the view from our friend’s house where we stayed in Varenna, a small fishing village with picturesque streets and alleyways. We met the Gala family 10 years ago while visiting this part of the country and still keep in touch.  What a spectacular view.italy-lake-como-13

…and amazing sunsets. This was our view while enjoying some wine and spirits out on the terrace.italy-lake-como-14

The next morning, and we’re off again.italy-lake-como-15 italy-lake-como-16 italy-lake-como-17

This time to the town of Comoitaly-lake-como-18 italy-lake-como-19 italy-lake-como-20 italy-lake-como-21 italy-lake-como-22 italy-lake-como-23

The view from the ferry as we approach Villa Balbianero in the village of Lenno. The location where many, many well known films have been shot as well as an amazing venue for weddings. We would absolutely be in heaven if we have an opportunity to photograph a wedding at this property, wink, wink.italy-lake-como-24 We got inspired and wanted to capture some photographs of us. I still would like to be behind the camera.
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Next and final leg on our tour of Italy is Venice and its surroundings.