A Photographer’s Guide to Capturing Rome

Rome—a city that seems to call to everyone, whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning that one big international trip of a lifetime. With its centuries-old architecture, ruins of the Roman Empire, and plates of fresh pasta that seem almost too good to be true, Rome is a dream come alive.

One of the best glimpses into Ancient Roman life is the Roman Forum

But let's face it—everyone knows how incredible Rome is. And if you've been there recently, you know it's not exactly a secret. Tourists are everywhere, especially around the city's most iconic spots.

As a photographer, I love exploring the world with my camera, but I HATE it when my shots are filled with random strangers. If they're not friends or family, I don't want them in my photos. I want my pictures to capture the place, not the people passing through. So, how do you photograph a city as popular as Rome without capturing the crowds?

It is simple: get up early.

The Magic of Mornings

Most travelers aren't morning people, which means the early hours are yours for the taking. Rome before breakfast is like a completely different city—quiet, calm, and even more beautiful than you imagined. The cobblestones are empty, the piazzas are peaceful, and places like the Roman Forum or the Pantheon feel like they belong to you.

7:30 AM in front of the Pantheon, and we had the entire place to ourselves!

With travelers recording record passport demand, visa applications, and airport attendance, this will become increasingly important. And with 2025 marking a Jubilee year, Rome is bracing for even larger crowds than usual.

A Look Back

When I visited Rome in the summer of 2018, AI photo tools weren't around to remove people from images. What you see in these photos is exactly what I saw: quiet streets and landmarks free of tour groups and selfie sticks. They're not masterpieces by any stretch, but they all share one thing: no crowds. And it all came down to one simple habit: setting an alarm.

So, if you're planning a trip to Rome—whether for the Jubilee or just to finally check it off your bucket list—don't miss out on the magic of early mornings. Rome rewards those who show up before the rest of the world. Trust me, it's worth every yawn.

An empty Vatican City? Yes! Just arrive shortly after sunrise. This was taken at 5:39 AM.

At dawn, Castel Sant'Angelo was serene and empty

Other Tips to Capture The Eternal City

The Aventine Keyhole was surprisingly challenging to capture. The lens on my Canon 60D was too large; therefore, my old iPhone 8 Plus did the trick.

The Spanish Steps with only two visitors -- unheard of!

Don't let rain ruin your perspective! Look for puddles to capture interesting reflections!

If you still can't get a shot of the entire perspective, go for sections of a scene or building to tell the story. You can easily grab these shots of the Colosseum on a crowded day.

A corner of the Pantheon is a good idea if people crowd the shot.

Of course, keep an eye out for unique moments that tell a story.

As of January of 2025, the procedures to see the Trevi Fountain have changed.

As of January 2025, the procedures to see the Trevi Fountain have changed. No more rocking up at your whim. A temporary walkway, online booking, and entry fee, as well as visitor capacity, are new for enjoying this iconic Roman site. The tradition of tossing a coin into the fountain remains, although in an adjacent makeshift pool. Are these changes improvements or a sign of the negative consequences of over-tourism?

Change your vantage point. It is easy to always capture what you see eye-level from a standing perspective. Try different perspectives, from looking up to getting low to the ground. The changes in the foreground may enhance the image.

Change your vantage point. Try not to take every shot eye-level.

Inside the Pantheon beneath the oculus

We found ourselves inside the Pantheon mid-afternoon. It was as crowded as a college bar: shoulder-to-shoulder. How could we capture visiting the Pantheon without 1,000 others who weren't part of our travel squad? Using the timer on an iPhone, we stood beneath the oculus and placed the phone on the floor looking up. The bright light of the mid-afternoon sun shining through the oculus and the dark interior created havoc on exposure-- especially when the shot has to be incredibly quick. In a crowded setting like a summer afternoon in The Pantheon, you must move quickly and take one shot. Converting any image that the exposure isn't correct into black and white can save the shot from being deleted. Will this win any photographic competitions? Hell, no! But it did capture the family inside one of Rome's most beloved Catholic churches.

Again, these are not noteworthy images, but ones that show Rome without the hordes of tourists. On your next visit to Rome or any travel destination, try some of these tips and tricks. You may be pleasantly surprised with your efforts.