Silvia Sala Photography

Venice Carnival Couple Photoshoot | Romantic Portraits in Traditional Costumes

Every year, the city of Venice becomes the theater of the renowned Venice Carnival. People will be wearing costumes, especially during the weekends, there will be a boat carnival float, confetti everywhere, and exclusive parties in luxurious palaces. Isn’t this the perfect occasion for a Venice Carnival couple photoshoot?

A couple in traditional Venetian Carnival costumes posing for a photoshoot in Venice

The Magic of Venice Carnival Costumes

Venice Carnival photography is perhaps best known for its handmade Venetian masks and elaborate 18th-century dresses, inspired by the traditional clothing of the era. For centuries, masks allowed people to break free from their social status and embrace a world of mystery and playfulness.

During the Republic of Venice, Carnival was a time of freedom, role reversal, and a break from the ordinary, a tradition that in a small part still lives on today.

Close-up of a romantic kiss between a couple wearing ornate Venetian masks during Venice Carnival

Couple dressed in 18th-century Venetian costumes strolling through the historic streets of Venice

Venice Carnival couple in 18th-century costumes, as a gentleman elegantly holds his partner’s hand in a romantic gesture.

Carnival Photoshoot: A Way to Remember This Unique Tradition

A fun idea is to dress up before your masquerade ball and book a Venice Carnival photoshoot. The couples I photographed did exactly that: it’s not every day that you get to wear 18th-century clothing, so why not capture the moment with a Venice portrait photographer?

For Italians, Carnival is what Halloween is for Americans: a big celebration where everyone can unleash their creativity and be a little less serious for a night.

Venice Carnival portrait of a woman in an 18th-century gown with intricate embroidery, wearing a black lace mask and a voluminous Rococo-style wig

Venice Carnival portrait of a man in an 18th-century costume and golden mask

Couple in 18th-century costumes on a Venetian bridge, as a man kisses a woman on the cheek in a romantic moment.

To enhance the timeless feel of these shoots, we chose locations far from the crowded tourist areas. The hidden alleys and quiet canals made the photographs feel like they were taken in another century. As an experienced Venice couple photographer, I know exactly where to find the most romantic and atmospheric spots to make your Carnival photoshoot in Venice truly unique.

Venice Carnival photoshoot featuring two couples in elaborate historical costumes

Where to Rent Your Venice Carnival Costume

You may be wondering where to rent a Venice Carnival dress… Well, Venice is home to many artisans who create handmade masks, dresses, and accessories, some of which are available for rent.

Whether you’re attending a masquerade ball or simply want to experience the magic of Carnival, these shops and ateliers will provide you with the finest pieces of Venetian craftsmanship.

You can check out some of my favorites:
Ca’ Del Sol
Atelier Marega
Ca’ Macana
La Bauta

Two lovers dancing in Venice wearing Carnival costumes

Venice Carnival couple in 18th-century costumes gazing at each other on the Ponte degli Scalzi in Venice

Couple in Venetian Carnival costumes captured in a gondola under a historic bridge

enice Carnival photoshoot of a couple dressed in historical costumes, floating through hidden canals

Venice Carnival couple photoshoot on a gondola ride along the Grand Canal

Make Your Venice Carnival Experience Unforgettable

Venice Carnival is crowded but magical, and it’s an experience everyone should have at least once. What better way to preserve these moments than with a professional Venice Carnival couple photoshoot?

If you’re planning to attend the 2025 Venice Carnival, drop me a message, and let’s create a unique and timeless photoshoot!