Great question! I recently did a photoshoot at Lake Como and faced a similar dilemma. From my experience, the best time to shoot is during the golden hour—early morning or late afternoon. Sunrise gives you fewer crowds and softer light, while sunset provides that warm glow, perfect for capturing the magical feel of the lake and surrounding villas. Midday can be too harsh, especially with the direct sunlight reflecting off the water.
As for the photographer, I strongly recommend hiring a local professional. I used a photographer from this website: https://milanphotographer.com/lake-como-photographer/. They really know the area inside and out. The photographer I hired was able to take us to some hidden gems I wouldn’t have known about otherwise, like small alleyways in Bellagio and quieter spots around Villa Melzi, which gave us beautiful, unique shots. Also, a local photographer will have experience working with the ever-changing light around the lake, so they’ll know exactly when and where to shoot for the best results. Bringing your own photographer could work, but they might not have that local expertise, which really made a huge difference in the quality of our photos. In the end, I was glad I chose someone familiar with the area!
Lake Como is such a stunning location for a photoshoot! I haven’t done one myself, but I’ve seen incredible photos taken around Villa Carlotta and in the little streets of Varenna. Timing definitely seems important, especially if you want to avoid crowds. I’ve also heard good things about the early morning light there, which seems ideal for getting clear shots of the lake and scenery. Hiring a local photographer sounds like a smart choice, considering how unique the area is!