Villa Pizzo Wedding: An Editorial Story on Lake Como (2026)

LAURA AND JACK

LAKE COMO, ITALY.

Originally Published: Feb 1, 2023 | Last Updated: Jan 25, 2026

The heritage of Lake Como is perhaps most visible at Villa Pizzo. Dating back to the 1400s, this estate in Cernobbio features one of the longest lakefront gardens in the region, defined by its sun-bleached, pastel-toned facades and a sense of quiet, old-world grandeur.

When documenting Laura and Jack’s celebration, my focus was on capturing the intersection of this historic architecture with a modern, editorial wedding photography aesthetic. As a photographer with a background in the national press, I have learned that a venue like Villa Pizzo requires a specific understanding of light. For Laura and Jack, we utilized the natural “studio” light reflecting off the lake to create a gallery that feels both cinematic and honest.

A Cinematic Hybrid: Digital & 35mm Film

For their ceremony on the ‘Darsena,’ I utilized a hybrid approach, blending high-resolution digital precision with the soulful texture of 35mm film photography. There is a specific, nostalgic grain to 35mm film that renders the Lake Como light with a texture that digital cannot replicate—perfect for the soft, romantic atmosphere of a lakeside garden.

Because the ‘Darsena’ is open to the water, the sound of the lake lapping against the stone creates a natural soundtrack that adds a profound level of intimacy to the exchange of vows; it is a sensory detail that truly defines the Villa Pizzo experience.

Chasing the Evening Light in Cernobbio

Villa Pizzo reveals its true character in the late afternoon. As an experienced destination wedding photographer, I often advise my couples to utilize the lake-facing courtyard for their wedding breakfast. At this time, the Italian sun reflects off the water’s surface, bathing the tables in a warm, golden glow.

Following the ceremony, we stepped away for a private session along the stone pathways. By utilizing a mix of natural light and modern direct flash, we created a gallery for Laura and Jack that is timeless and elegant. Using direct flash against the sun-bleached walls of the villa allows us to maintain that high-end editorial look even after the sun has dipped behind the mountains—a common occurrence in Lake Como where the peaks cut the “golden hour” shorter than in the open hills of Tuscany.

If you are currently planning your own celebration, you are welcome to explore my Lake Como wedding photographer guide for more insight on venues and logistics.