As promised I'm following up on my three part series on this year's Signature Series Italy Photography Workshop. Once we had our fair share of photos in Rome, we then spent the second leg of our Italy workshop exploring Florence and the beautiful Arno. Florence is one of the most beautiful cities I've ever visited. The food is fantastic every where you go, and there are surprises waiting around every corner.

The Arno river runs through the center of the city. You can't visit Florence without taking hordes of photos of the Ponte Vecchio and the reflections of the buildings in the river.

Florence is known as a destination wedding location. Here newlyweds embrace on Ponte Vecchio.

We found fun viewpoints in the Piazza della Signoria in front of the Uffizi Gallery.

Bicycles are a major form of transportation for people of all ages.

I spent much of my time exploring the city with my M6 and roll of Portra. Here, a local artist makes brass bracelets with a pair of pliers and a hammer.

There is nothing like exploring the markets of Florence. A dog stands guard as his owner sets up shop for day.

I think all the workshop attendees were overwhelmed by the sheer volume of interesting artwork and graffiti around every corner.

Street photographers can be so annoying. 🙂 This young man gets very close to two nuns taking photographs of Cupola del Brunelleschi, a famous domed church in central Florence. Portra 160

I will admit I enjoy people watching from a distance. Here, locals gathered to chat at the carousel in the Piazza della Repubblica. Portra 160.

Much of street photography is about patience and finding a location that provides opportunities. I liked the dark red mailboxes and the red floor tiles, so I waited until the proverbial “woman in red” appeared. Portra 400.

It wouldn't be Italy if there wasn't high fashion. This young woman was modeling clothing from her boutique. Taken with my M6 and Portra 160.

I don't know the story behind these fun drawings, but this artist's work could be seen throughout the city.

Door buzzers were even fun to photograph. The graffiti artists in Florence are a whimsical bunch.

Florence architecture is amazing with its beautiful arches, doorways, and classic old plaster adding a textural element.

A local artist takes a smoke break while enjoying the view from Piazzale Michelangelo.

Lastly, I need to thank Carl (a long time client and workshop attendee) for this opportunity. His friend is related to this extremely talented violin maker who invited us to view her workshop. She makes the finest violins in all the world, and we were able to see her working on guitar for a few minutes.
For me Florence is most of all about art and workmanship. In every detail and around every corner in this city you find gorgeous architecture, leather workers sewing purses and shoes or making belts, artists painting or sculpting, jewelers creating one-of-a-kind jewelry, tailors making custom clothing, and more. Being in Florence I am reminded of the value of working with one's hands to make beautiful things. I can't wait to go back!
Beautiful photography of your Italy workshop. Some day when I get to retire (I work 6 and 7 days a week) I hope to go on such an outing. Very inspirational!
Ron,
Well, it sounds like you’ve earned it so give keep us in mind when the day comes. 🙂 Thanks again for commenting.
Such beautiful captures of an amazing place. Love the images.
Lori,
Thank-you! It was a great time and I think everyone did really well on the trip. Hopefully, you can joining us one of these times 🙂