Spring Break in Italy: Where to Go and What to See in 5 Nights
Vacation Portraits, Tips Kirstie McConnell Vacation Portraits, Tips Kirstie McConnell

Spring Break in Italy: Where to Go and What to See in 5 Nights

Italy in the spring offers an unforgettable family adventure, with warmer days, blooming landscapes, and vibrant Easter celebrations.

Whether you're exploring the charming towns of Tuscany, soaking in the culture of Florence, Venice and Rome, or discovering the seaside charm of Puglia, Italy is the perfect spring break destination.

With just five or seven nights, you can create lasting memories while traveling with kids or enjoying a multi-generational family trip.

Use these itineraries to plan your spring getaway in Italy and experience the magic of this stunning country with your loved ones!

Read More
Fun Multi-Gen Family Portraits in Florence, Despite the Summer Heat
Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell

Fun Multi-Gen Family Portraits in Florence, Despite the Summer Heat

Looking for a stress-free, fun family photoshoot in Florence, even in the summer heat?

Discover how I captured beautiful multi-generational family portraits in the heart of Florence with flexible scheduling, unlimited time, and carefully chosen locations to ensure a relaxed, enjoyable experience for everyone—from toddlers to grandparents!

From the historic Boboli Gardens to the charming carousel in Piazza della Repubblica, and finishing with dreamy golden-hour portraits at a private Tuscan villa, see how these fairytale backdrops helped tell their unforgettable travel story.

Read More
Lucca with kids: Explore, Savor, and Capture Family Memories in Tuscany’s Hidden Gem
Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell

Lucca with kids: Explore, Savor, and Capture Family Memories in Tuscany’s Hidden Gem

Relive the charm of Lucca with travel tips, hidden gems, and family-friendly activities. From breakfast at Caffè Santa Zita to strolling its historic streets, explore this Tuscan treasure while capturing timeless memories with a professional photoshoot. Perfect for families seeking a blend of history, culture, and fun.

Read More
Visiting Lecce: A family photoshoot in Puglia’s most beautiful city
Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell

Visiting Lecce: A family photoshoot in Puglia’s most beautiful city

Imagine your family vacation photos taken strolling through a sun-soaked city where every corner feels like it belongs in a postcard—welcome to Lecce, the sparkling jewel of Puglia. Known as the "Florence of the South," this enchanting city offers more than just baroque beauty; it’s a playground for history buffs, foodies, and families alike. It’s no surprise you’re planning a visit—or maybe even dreaming of a move here, just like this adventurous young family!

Read More
Villa Borghese: A Family-Friendly Oasis in the Heart of Rome
Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell

Villa Borghese: A Family-Friendly Oasis in the Heart of Rome

Rome, the Eternal City, has it all—ancient ruins, world-class cuisine, and enough gelato to satisfy even the most indulgent traveller. But let’s be honest: it can also be a bit much. The bustling streets, endless attractions, and selfie-stick-wielding crowds can leave you craving a slice of serenity.

Enter Villa Borghese, your ticket to calm amidst the chaos. Just a short stroll from Piazza del Popolo, this sprawling park offers a quieter side of Rome that many visitors overlook. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, a family adventure, or the perfect photo shoot backdrop, Villa Borghese delivers in spades.

Read More
Kid-friendly food in Italy beyond pizza
Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell

Kid-friendly food in Italy beyond pizza

Many of my clients tell me that their biggest fear prior to arriving in Italy is finding food other than pizza for the fussy eater in their family. If you share those concerns and are wondering what to feed your kids in Italy beyond pizza, you’re in the right place!

The good news is that Italian food is typically simple flavours with fresh ingredients, and based on my travels throughout the world, I have to argue that it is the most child-friendly cuisine in the world.

Read More
Puglia mum & daughter portraits: Agriturismo photoshoot at Masseria Potenti
Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell

Puglia mum & daughter portraits: Agriturismo photoshoot at Masseria Potenti

Looking for a place to escape everyday life, to process a recent event and find a way forward, this mum and daughter spent a week in Puglia at Masseria Potenti. Together, they oohed and ahhed at the landscape surrounding them. They over-indulged in the food placed in front of them. They talked, they laughed, and they embraced the special bond they have. And now they have gorgeous photos to relive the trip forever!

Read More
Savouring Italy, One Pasta Shape at a Time: A Journey Through Italy’s Regional Pasta Traditions
Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell

Savouring Italy, One Pasta Shape at a Time: A Journey Through Italy’s Regional Pasta Traditions

Dreaming of Italy with the family? Sure, there’s the art, the history, the jaw-dropping landscapes—but let’s be honest, Italy’s true heart is in its food. And what better way to dive into Italian culture than through pasta?

Each Italian region has its own signature pasta shape, and trying them is like taking a delicious bite out of local history, one forkful at a time.

Read More
Tuscany Family Photoshoot at Al Gelso Bianco
Classico Portraits, Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell Classico Portraits, Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell

Tuscany Family Photoshoot at Al Gelso Bianco

Family is everything to these Aussies- but between demanding work hours and after-school activities, they never managed to use one of the multiple gift certificates they purchased for each other over the years for a family photoshoot.

When they booked a week in the gorgeous Tuscan countryside at Al Gelso Bianco and learned they could have a photoshoot there while they were all together, without the distractions of day-to-day life- they decided to make it happen.

Read More
A Quick and Fun Couples Photoshoot at the Colosseum in Rome
Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell

A Quick and Fun Couples Photoshoot at the Colosseum in Rome

When this wonderful couple booked a photoshoot at the Colosseum, the wife was excited to have professional photos to remember their time in Rome, but her husband wasn’t quite as thrilled. He wasn’t a fan of being in front of the camera and requested a quick session.

In just 20 minutes, we captured stunning, natural portraits that truly reflected their love for each other and the magic of Rome. With no pressure to pose, the shoot stayed lighthearted and fun, and even the husband admitted, “That was actually painless!”

Although Classico Portraits photoshoots include unlimited time, this was proof that a short session can still result in a beautiful collection of memories, all while keeping things relaxed and enjoyable.

Read More
Tuscany Countryside Family Portraits
Classico Portraits, Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell Classico Portraits, Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell

Tuscany Countryside Family Portraits

As a family vacation photographer in Italy, I work with kids of all ages but understandably one of the first comments made by parents upon enquiry is that they’re not sure if their kids will smile for the camera.

I get it. Over the last decade or so I’ve met my fair share of shy kids. But what I learned very quickly was how to make sure that by the end of the shoot they’re comfortable- and the photos reflect that.

That’s because this is your vacation. And I want you to look back at these photos and not only remember the wonderful trip to Italy, but of our few hours spent together with fond memories. I truly want you and the kids, to enjoy the photoshoot as part of your holiday.

Read More
The best hotels in Rome for families in 2024
Tips Kirstie McConnell Tips Kirstie McConnell

The best hotels in Rome for families in 2024

Finding a family-friendly hotel is never easy. The options are typically limited to squeezing in a single rollaway (not helpful for your two teenagers?!) or booking two separate rooms and splitting your family.

You’re faced with the same issue when trying to find a family-friendly hotel in Italy! Many families opt for an Airbnb instead, but I know the guaranteed cleanliness of a luxury hotel (and the buffet breakfast) is enticing so I asked travelling parents where they’ve loved staying with their families here, and these are their recommendations. 

Read More
The ultimate two-week summer trip through Italy with tweens and teens 
Tips Kirstie McConnell Tips Kirstie McConnell

The ultimate two-week summer trip through Italy with tweens and teens 

Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Italy with your tweens and teens? This itinerary takes you from North to South with stops in Venice, Florence, Rome and Puglia. It promises to keep everyone entertained, enlightened, and well-fed as you explore the best of Italy’s vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

Read More
Rome’s most fun local guide for the Colosseum and Rome with kids
Tips Kirstie McConnell Tips Kirstie McConnell

Rome’s most fun local guide for the Colosseum and Rome with kids

Let me introduce you to Mariaclaudia. You’ll find her recommended in all the family-focused Facebook travel groups, and for good reason. I recently spent an afternoon photographing a family enjoying one of her tours and like all the reviews you read, I can’t recommend her highly enough. She’s fun, she can adapt to connect with family members of all ages (even your teenagers!) and personalities on her tour, and most of all, she leaves you feeling that little bit more knowledgable but still wanting to know more, without the overwhelm. A feeling that is sure to encourage your children to continue their learning. 

Read More
Tuscany’s most beautiful family-friendly Agriturismo: Al Gelso Bianco
Classico Portraits Kirstie McConnell Classico Portraits Kirstie McConnell

Tuscany’s most beautiful family-friendly Agriturismo: Al Gelso Bianco

Whether you're envisioning a tranquil stay hanging by the pool, or looking for a central location for a busy trip, this gem stands out for its family-friendly atmosphere and ideal location amidst the myriad options: Al Gelso Bianco.

Nestled in the heart of Chianti, Al Gelso Bianco offers an idyllic blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, and conveniently located between Florence and Siena, this agriturismo is the perfect base for exploring Tuscany. With amenities designed to cater to families, such as a pool, playground, and child-friendly activities, Al Gelso Bianco ensures a memorable stay for guests of all ages.

In this post, we’ll delve into the features that make Al Gelso Bianco the top choice for families, provide tips for navigating Tuscany with kids, and highlight must-see attractions in the region. From engaging cooking classes to exploring medieval villages, this comprehensive guide will help you plan a stress-free and unforgettable Tuscan adventure.

Read More
Family photoshoot with Grandma in Tuscany
Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell Vacation Portraits Kirstie McConnell

Family photoshoot with Grandma in Tuscany

Taking a trip to Italy with multiple generations isn't just about ticking off destinations on a map; it's about weaving stronger threads in the fabric of your family story. Picture this: Grandparents, parents, and kids, all sharing in the thrill of discovery, the joy of experiencing new sights, sounds, and in Italy, of course, flavours. It's not just about the places you go, but the moments you share along the way that truly cement those family ties.

Read More
Headshots and professional branding portraits in Tuscany
Commercial Kirstie McConnell Commercial Kirstie McConnell

Headshots and professional branding portraits in Tuscany

Over the phone Laura had told me “be prepared, I am not photogenic, in fact, I can’t be photographed”. I asked her more about that and with an understanding of her fears, began to design a photoshoot plan that would ensure it was a lovely morning together, and of course, that I showed her just how gorgeous she actually is!

Read More
The ultimate guide to Truffle Hunting in Italy
Tips Kirstie McConnell Tips Kirstie McConnell

The ultimate guide to Truffle Hunting in Italy

Italy is not only renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine but also for something hidden beneath its soil – truffles. And what better activity to escape the crowds of Rome and Florence than a typical Italian experience that combines nature, food, history and maybe even a cooking class and lunch? That’s what Truffle Hunts throughout Italy offer and in this blog post, you can learn all about them and find the best one for your trip!

Read More
Northern Italy 10 Day Itinerary from Venice or Milan with Kids
Tips Kirstie McConnell Tips Kirstie McConnell

Northern Italy 10 Day Itinerary from Venice or Milan with Kids

Planning a trip to Italy, especially for the first time or with your family, can be both exhilarating and daunting. Despite Italy's compact size, comprising just 3% of the land area of the United States, the country is brimming with an abundance of cultural treasures and picturesque landscapes to explore. However, in such a small country, it's all too easy to fall into the trap of trying to cover too much ground in one go, leaving you exhausted and feeling like you've barely scratched the surface of what Italy has to offer.

So how should you spend 10 days in Italy after flying into Venice or Milan?

Read More