Why have an engagement session in the Dolomites
The Dolomites are one of the most romantic and cinematic places in the world for an engagement session.
They are perfect if you want photos:
- natural, spontaneous and artistic
- in an iconic landscape
- with incredible light at dawn or dusk
- to be used for save the dates, wedding invitations or albums
As a photographer in the Dolomites, I’ve accompanied many couples to lakes, refuges, and scenic spots: every time, the magic repeats itself.
When to have an engagement session in the Dolomites (best time)
June – October: the best period
- green meadows
- open shelters
- clear skies
- access to cable cars and roads
December – February: Magical winter
- snow
- cinematic and intimate mood
- sessions near shelters or hotels
Avoid November and April:
It’s low season, many facilities are closed and the weather is very unstable.
The best times for photos
Dawn (Golden Hour of the Mountains)
The most recommended time:
- zero people
- soft, golden light
- poetic atmosphere
- perfectly calm lakes
Sunset
Perfect for emotional photos with warm tones and open landscapes.
Blue Hour
More intimate tone, ideal for editorial photos.
The best locations for an engagement session in the Dolomites (2026)
1. Lake Braies
Iconic, romantic, perfect at dawn.
Strengths:
- Turquoise water
- Wooden boat
- Perfectly symmetrical mountains
- Cinematic atmosphere
Great for couples who dream of poetic photos.
2. Alpe di Siusi
The sweetest and brightest location in the Dolomites.
Perfect for:
- Walks in the meadows
- Natural portrait
- Views of the Sassolungo and Sassopiatto mountains
At dawn it’s pure magic.
3. Seceda
Dramatic, elegant, iconic.
Suitable for those who want a spectacular engagement, with a unique crest in the world.
Access: cable car + short walk.
4. Carezza Lake (Karersee)
Perfect for:
- short sessions
- soft light filtered through the woods
- incredible colors
- romantic atmospheres
It is ideal for both summer and autumn.
5. Val di Funes – Santa Maddalena
One of the most picturesque valleys.
Strengths:
- Soft meadows
- The little church of Santa Maddalena
- Mountains like theatrical wings
Perfect if you want a combination of nature and architecture.
6. Gardena Pass / Sella Pass
Open, dramatic, windy settings — perfect for editorial looks.
Ideal for:
- dynamic shots
- couples who love vast landscapes
- moving photographs
7. Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint
An iconic, dramatic, photogenic location.
Perfect for adventurous sunset sessions.
8. Lake Misurina + Lake Antorno
Ideal for:
- mixed sessions (water + forest)
- fall
- perfect reflections in the lake
Perfect if you want a softer, more relaxed mood.
How to choose the right location
Here’s what to consider:
✔ Couple Style
More romantic, more adventurous, more elegant?
✔ Accessibility
Do you prefer locations accessible by car or are you willing to walk 15–30 minutes?
✔ Available time
Do you want a short session or a half-day?
✔ Time
Sunrise = magic and no tourists
Sunset = warm colors and an intimate atmosphere
✔ Season
In winter, many locations are only accessible with snowshoes or with limited access.
What to Wear for an Engagement Session in the Dolomites
Outfits make a huge difference.
For her
- Long dresses that move in the wind
- Natural shades (white, beige, burgundy, forest green)
- Elegant coat in winter
- Comfortable shoes for traveling
For him
- Simple but elegant outfits (trousers + shirt)
- Wool sweaters in earth tones
- Light suit or jacket in winter
- Neutral shoes
Avoid
- large logos
- fluorescent colors
- too sporty clothes
- black clothes in dark locations
Access, Permits, and Logistics
Each location has different rules.
Access:
- Braies → limited access in high season
- Seceda → cable car with precise timetables
- Alpe di Siusi → ZTL area
- Three Peaks → road toll
- Carezza → protected area
It’s always best to check in advance or rely on a photographer who knows the area.
How long does an engagement session last?
Generally:
1 hour → short session (Carezza, Braies)
2 hours → standard session (Braies + forest, Alpe di Siusi)
3–4 hours → multi-point session (Seceda + other spots)
How it works for me (recommended workflow for your site)
Here is the text you can use:
- Briefing together to understand style, personality and desires
- Choose location based on the season and light
- Schedule planning (sunrise or sunset)
- Guided Shooting – no rigid poses, just natural moments
- Photo delivery in 7–15 days, in high resolution
- Personal gallery online for downloading or sharing
How to best prepare
- Sleep close to the location (especially for sunrise sessions)
- Bring water and snacks
- Bring water and snacks
- Bring a warm jacket even in summer
- Let yourself be guided: the best photos are born from spontaneity
Real-world examples of engagement sessions you can link to
(insert link to your work)
- Engagement at Lago di Braies
- Engagement at Alpe di Siusi
- Engagement session Seceda
- engagement lake carezza
- Engagement session Lake Antorno
- elopement Cadini di Misurina Tre Cime di Lavaredo
Want to organize an engagement session in the Dolomites?
If you want authentic, romantic, and naturalistic photos in the heart of the mountains, I can create a tailor-made experience for you.
