In brief
A Venice Carnival photoshoot is a 1 to 2 hour session in historical costume and mask during Carnival (or any time of year), usually starting at sunrise around St Mark's and the quieter campi, with advice on where to rent costumes.
When is the Venice Carnival?
Carnival takes place in the weeks before Lent and ends on Shrove Tuesday (Martedì Grasso). In 2027, that's 9 February, with the main events over the previous two weekends. During those days Venice fills with costumed figures, and St Mark's Square becomes a stage. Check the official programme for exact dates.
Where to photograph Carnival costumes
The best photographs come early in the morning, before the crowds. St Mark's Square and the arcades of the Doge's Palace are the classic backdrops. The Bridge of Sighs area, the Riva degli Schiavoni and the canals of Castello give quieter frames. The historic rooms of Caffè Florian match the costumes perfectly, with the café's permission.
Renting a costume in Venice
Several ateliers in the city rent historical costumes and masks. Book weeks ahead for Carnival dates. A costume shoot also works outside Carnival, when the city is emptier and you have the campi to yourselves. Read our costume rental and photoshoot guide.
What's included
Coverage
- Costume portraits at 2 to 4 locations
- Online gallery of fully edited high-resolution images
- Advice on costume rental and timing
Planning and extras
- Sunrise sessions during Carnival to avoid crowds
- Couple and individual costume portraits
- Available year-round
- Can be combined with a proposal
Carnival photoshoots in Venice: frequently asked questions
Can you do a Carnival costume photoshoot in Venice outside Carnival?
Yes, year-round. It's much quieter, and the costumes look just as good in an empty campo.
When is the Venice Carnival in 2027?
Carnival ends on Shrove Tuesday (Martedì Grasso), which in 2027 falls on 9 February; the main events usually run over the previous two weekends and week. Check the official programme for exact dates.
Where can we rent a costume in Venice?
Several ateliers in the city rent historical costumes and masks; book weeks ahead for Carnival dates. Our costume guide has tips on what to ask.
Can we do a costume shoot outside Carnival?
Yes, and it's much quieter. The costumes look just as good in an empty campo in spring.
How much does a Carnival photoshoot cost in Venice?
We don't publish a fixed price list, because the right coverage depends on your date, timing, locations and boats. As a market reference, photographers listed for Venice on the MyWed directory charge roughly 140 to 950 USD per hour, with most between about 220 and 345 USD per hour and a usual minimum of two hours. Tell us your plans and we'll send a tailored proposal.
Collections
Every collection is tailored to your day — tell us your date, plans and guest count and we'll send a personal proposal.
Timeline
1 to 2 hours
Ideal for
Couples and individuals who want to dress up in Venetian costume, during Carnival or at any other time of year.
Let's turn your vision into timeless images
Tell us your date and vision — we'll handle the rest, and reply personally within one business day.
Now booking 2026–2027 · limited dates