06/01/2026
Some photographs begin long before the camera ever comes out of the bag....
Before arriving in Florence, I spent considerable time researching vantage points throughout the city. Florence offers no shortage of breathtaking views. I knew I wanted to create an image that included the Arno River, the historic bridges, and Florence's timeless skyline in a single composition. My research eventually led me to Piazzale Michelangelo, which offered exactly the perspective I had envisioned.
As sunset approached, I knew I was at the place I needed to be.
What this photograph doesn't reveal is the sea of people surrounding me. The overlook was packed with visitors hoping to witness the sunset. Finding the exact position I envisioned required patience, persistence, and squeezing into a very small opening among the crowd.
But photography is often like that. The final image may appear effortless, yet there is usually a story behind it—a search for the right perspective, the right light, and the right moment.
Standing there that evening, watching the warm light settle across Florence, the Arno River, and the bridges that have connected the city for centuries, I felt a deep appreciation for being able to witness and capture such a remarkable scene in such a fascinating city.
If Florence happens to be on your travel itinerary, set aside an evening for sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo. The view is unforgettable.
I know it's an evening I'll never forget.