Romantic Anniversary Photo Session in the Streets of Arles, France

There’s something magical about celebrating love in Provence. The golden light, winding cobblestone streets, and timeless history make it one of the most romantic backdrops in the world. For this sweet couple, their wedding anniversary was the perfect occasion to return to France and capture their story with a photo session in Arles, Provence.

As a couples and engagement photographer in Arles, I’m always inspired by the way this ancient Roman city blends history, charm, and effortless beauty. From the faded pastel shutters to the lively squares filled with café tables, Arles is a dream location for couples who want their anniversary session to feel both elegant and deeply personal.

In this post, I’ll share highlights from this anniversary photo shoot, favorite locations we explored, and tips for planning your own couple’s session in Arles or anywhere in Provence, France.

Why Arles Is the Perfect Backdrop for an Anniversary Session

Arles is a city made for lovers of romance, art, and history. Nestled in the heart of Provence, it’s a place where every corner seems designed for photography. The mix of Roman ruins, medieval streets, and Provençal light creates endless opportunities for storytelling through images.

Here are just a few reasons couples love anniversary photoshoots in Arles:

• Golden Provençal Light – The warm, soft glow in Arles, especially at sunrise and sunset, makes every photograph luminous. Painters like Vincent van Gogh came here for a reason.
• Historic Charm – From the Roman Amphitheater to hidden courtyards, Arles is steeped in character. Each stone seems to tell a story.
• Quiet Streets – Unlike bigger cities, Arles feels intimate. Couples can stroll through cobbled lanes without crowds interrupting the moment.
• Provence Atmosphere – Beyond the city, fields of lavender, olive groves, and vineyards are only a short drive away.

Choosing Arles for this couple’s anniversary session meant their photos would capture not only their love but also the essence of Provence itself.

The Story Behind This Anniversary Session

Tamara and Josh couple to Provence to celebrate their 15th wedding anniversary. This was the vacation of a lifetime, a second honeymoon, visiting Provence, and they wanted to capture their joy and happiness in this beautiful place.

They also wanted their anniversary photos to feel timeless and romantic, with a touch of editorial elegance. Instead of posing stiffly, they envisioned wandering hand in hand through Arles—laughing, reminiscing, and rediscovering each other. We did a lot of walking through the charming streets!

As their Arles anniversary photographer, my goal was to capture that natural intimacy against the rich Provençal backdrop.

Tamara herself is a professional photographer in New Jersey, specializing in families, newborns and fine art children’s portraits. I enjoyed so much learning about her business in the United States, and as fellow Americans, we exchanged ideas and our experiences, which was so memorable!

Walking Through the Streets of Arles

Our session began early in the morning, just as the sun rose over the Rhône River. The streets were quiet, bathed in soft golden tones, creating the perfect light for portraits.

• The Amphitheater – We started at the Roman Amphitheater, where the arches framed the couple beautifully. Against the centuries-old stone, their love felt both modern and timeless.
• Winding Alleyways – From there, we wandered into the narrow alleyways lined with pastel shutters and climbing vines. The couple walked hand in hand, occasionally stopping to kiss in the doorways of centuries-old houses.
• Place du Forum – We stopped at this lively square, where Van Gogh once painted. In the morning calm, it felt like a secret garden of cafés and stone facades.
• Hidden Courtyards – One of the joys of photographing in Arles is discovering hidden corners. We stumbled upon a small courtyard filled with potted plants, which made the perfect intimate backdrop.

Every step of the way, the couple’s laughter and closeness were the stars of the shoot. My style is romantic and documentary-inspired, so I focused on capturing real moments—glances, laughter, embraces—rather than stiff poses.

Styling for a Provence Anniversary Photoshoot

The couple chose outfits that matched the elegance of Provence. She wore a flowing cream dress that caught the sunlight beautifully, while he paired linen trousers with a soft blue shirt—both stylish and comfortable for wandering through the streets.

If you’re planning your own couple’s photoshoot in Arles, here are some styling tips:

• Neutral Tones – Shades of cream, beige, and soft pastels complement the Provençal palette.
• Light Fabrics – Linen and cotton breathe well in the warm climate and look effortlessly chic.
• Flowing Dresses – Dresses with movement look stunning in photos, especially when walking through cobblestone streets.
• Comfortable Shoes – You’ll be strolling through uneven streets, so choose shoes you can walk in.

Tips for Planning an Anniversary Session in Arles

If you’re considering a romantic anniversary photoshoot in Provence, here are some tips to make the most of it:

1. Choose the Right Time of Day

The best light is during the golden hours—shortly after sunrise or just before sunset. In summer, Arles can be very sunny and hot, so early morning is ideal for soft light and quieter streets.

2. Plan Your Route

Arles is full of hidden gems, but it helps to plan a walking route that covers both iconic landmarks and intimate backstreets. A good mix makes for a diverse gallery of images. As someone who lives in Arles, I know all the best places to go!

3. Embrace the Provençal Spirit

Don’t be afraid to stop at a café, sip a glass of rosé, or stroll through the local market. These real-life moments often make the best photos.

4. Work With a Local Photographer

A photographer familiar with Arles will know the best hidden corners and how to work with the Provençal light. This ensures your photos feel natural and authentic. As a professional photographer, I’ve lived more than five years in Arles, and know Provence so well, I can be your guide!

Why Anniversary Sessions Matter

Anniversary sessions are more than just photographs—they’re a celebration of love, growth, and shared memories. While weddings mark the beginning of a journey, anniversaries honor the road already traveled together.

For this couple, their session in Arles was a way to reconnect with the feelings they had on their honeymoon while celebrating how far they’d come. Every photo captured their laughter, tenderness, and quiet joy of being together.

Beyond Arles: Other Romantic Spots in Provence

If you’re planning a longer stay in Provence, there are countless other stunning locations for photography:

• Avignon – Known for its historic bridge and papal palace.
• Les Baux-de-Provence – A hilltop village with panoramic views.
• Saint-Rémy-de-Provence – Full of charm and Van Gogh history.
• Lavender Fields of Valensole (seasonal in June/July) – Iconic Provence landscapes.
• Camargue – Wild horses, flamingos, and sweeping salt flats.

Pairing Arles with these destinations can create a diverse and unforgettable photography experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Anniversary Photography in Arles

When is the best time of year for an anniversary session in Arles?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal. The weather is mild, and the light is beautiful. Summer can be very hot, while winter has a quieter, moody charm.

How long does a typical session last?
Most anniversary photo sessions in Arles last between 1–2 hours, enough time to explore several locations while keeping the mood relaxed.

Do we need to pose?
Not at all! My approach is documentary-inspired, meaning I’ll guide you gently but focus on capturing natural interactions. Think of it as a romantic walk with beautiful photos along the way.

Can we include multiple outfits?
Yes! Many couples bring a change of clothes for variety. A casual look and a more elegant look often work best.

Final Thoughts

This anniversary session in Arles was a reminder of why I love being a Provence photographer. The combination of timeless streets, warm light, and genuine love created images that feel both intimate and elegant.

For couples looking to celebrate their love story, there’s no place quite like Arles. Whether it’s your first anniversary or your fiftieth, the city offers the perfect blend of history, beauty, and romance.

If you’re dreaming of your own couple’s photo session in Arles, Provence, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. Together, we can create photographs that capture your love in one of the most enchanting corners of France. Contact me today to plan your session!

Web site: www.karinaleigh.com

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