Ortigia is one of those places that people never seem to forget.
The beautiful old streets, the sea views, the warm summer evenings, the food, the atmosphere. Every year, people come here to slow down, explore, and spend time with the people they love.
The funny thing is that most visitors leave with hundreds of photos of buildings, beaches, sunsets, and plates of pasta, but very few photos of themselves actually being part of those memories.
Over the years, I’ve met visitors from all over the world who wanted to change that. Some were travelling with family, some were celebrating an anniversary, some were expecting their first child, and others simply wanted a few beautiful photos together while exploring Sicily.
Whatever brings you to Ortigia, a relaxed one or two-hour photoshoot is a lovely way to remember your time here.
What the session feels like
The experience is designed to feel easy and relaxed. Most of my clients are not models and usually tell me they’re nervous about being in front of a camera. That’s completely normal. I’ll guide you throughout the session with simple directions and help you feel comfortable, so you never have to worry about how to pose or what to do.
Many people tell me afterwards that the photoshoot felt more like a walk around Ortigia than a traditional photography session.
We usually meet at Fontana di Diana in Piazza Archimede, right in the heart of Ortigia. From there, we’ll explore some of my favourite spots around the island. Depending on the light and what catches our eye, we might photograph along the waterfront, in quiet side streets, historic squares, hidden corners full of character, or anywhere that feels right in the moment.
One of the things I love most about Ortigia is how much variety it offers within a short walking distance. In a single session, we can create images with completely different moods and backdrops without ever needing to travel far.
Most sessions take place either in the morning or during the late afternoon and evening when the light is at its best. Sunset sessions are the most common and popular in every season.
If you’d like some variety in your gallery, you’re welcome to bring a second outfit. Many clients choose one casual look and one slightly dressier outfit. Changing opportunities are somewhat limited in Ortigia, and usually involve using the restroom of a café or bar, which often requires making a small purchase.
When it comes to styling, simple works best. Flowy dresses photograph beautifully, especially in the sea breeze. Wide-brimmed hats can look fantastic in photos while also offering protection from the strong Sicilian sun. Sunglasses are always useful, and smaller bags tend to work better than large backpacks or bulky accessories.
Since I moved to Italy from London, all communication and guidance are provided in English, making the experience easy and comfortable for international visitors.
Each session includes:
- 1–2 hour photoshoot around Ortigia
- Guidance and posing help throughout the session
- A walk through some of Ortigia’s most scenic locations
- 20 professionally edited high-resolution photographs
- Colour versions and black & white versions of all selected images
- Full colour correction and light retouching
- Large high-resolution files suitable for printing
- Social media sized files ready to share online
- Delivery via Google Drive
- A few bonus images included with every gallery when the results are especially lovely
My goal is simply to create photographs that feel genuine and bring back the memories of your time here long after the holiday is over.
If you’re planning a visit and would like to create some lasting memories while you’re here, I’d love to hear from you.
Contact: opencreativeworld@gmail.com
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