Wedding videography in Italy
Villa Balbianello wedding on Lake Como
Villa del Balbianello is one of Lake Como’s most storied wedding venues, renowned for its amazing architecture, history and dramatic position on the Lake. Today, Balbianello has a cinematic presence the moment you arrive - which makes sense, considering it has been featured in films like Star Wars and James Bond. As a destination wedding filmmaker it’s the kind of setting you dream about capturing, and it’s something I really wanted to honour in Alexandra and Florian’s wedding film.
Villa del Balbianello represents the pinnacle of Italian destination weddings: timeless, luxurious, and unforgettably cinematic. Alexandra and Florian’s film is a tribute not only to their love but to the beauty of choosing Italy as the backdrop for their celebration. Their wedding film captures not only the grandeur of Balbianello but also the amazing connection between them, celebrating in one of the most captivating destinations in Italy.
Photos of the Villa never quite do it justice. Being there in person is different — quieter, more emotional, more intimate. Their day was relaxed and full of meaningful moments between family and friends. They chose Lake Como because they wanted an experience that felt intentional and personal, and that energy stayed with them throughout the day. They wanted to bring their families together in a place that felt significant but not overwhelming. Lake Como gave them that balance: breathtaking views paired with a sense of calm. My goal with their film was simple: capture all of it without interfering, and let the natural beauty of the setting do the rest.
Working in Italy, whether it’s Lake Como, Tuscany, or the Amalfi Coast, brings a consistent challenge and reward: every location is beautiful, but each one works differently. Villa del Balbianello is fast-paced in the sense that everything happens in a defined window of time, yet still offers some of the most striking visuals of any destination wedding venue. Most examples, most couples and guests arrive by boat, and this becomes part of the day. Practical, yes, but also iconic and visually powerful.
For Alexandra and Florian, the focus was never on staging or posing. Their wedding film reflects who they are and the environment they chose. Real interactions, honest emotions, natural sound, and the rhythm of the lake. That’s what I love most about filming weddings here: being able to capture days that feel authentic rather than overly produced. They weren’t trying to “act” for the camera. They were just present, and that made the entire experience incredibly natural to film. Their boat ride to the villa was one of those moments where I didn’t even need to direct. They held onto each other, taking in the view, and it simply worked. Real emotion is always better than anything posed.
Planning tips for weddings at Villa del Balbianello
Planning a destination wedding at Villa del Balbianello is an incredible experience, but there are a few practical things couples should know ahead of time. The venue is spectacular, but it also has unique logistics that are very specific to Lake Como and to Balbianello itself.
Having filmed many weddings on Lake Como over the years, I’ve learned that no two days ever look or feel the same, even when they take place at the same venue. The weather changes quickly, the light moves differently depending on the season, and every couple brings their own energy to the space. That’s what keeps me inspired each time I return. Here are the things I’ve seen make the biggest difference for couples planning here:
1. Work with a planner who knows the property
This venue is protected by FAI (the Italian National Trust), which means there are clear rules around access times, ceremony locations, sound restrictions, and movement on the property. A planner who is familiar with the villa will already know how to navigate the system, what permits are needed, and how to build a timeline around the available hours.
2. Factor in boat transport for everyone
Almost every wedding at Balbianello involves boats, and this affects timing, costs, and logistics more than people expect. Boats are beautiful on film, but they’re also practical. You’ll need separate boats for the couple and guests, and scheduling departure times is essential. Everything needs to be part of the plan.
3. Plan your timeline with light in mind
Balbianello’s position on the peninsula means that the light changes quickly depending on the time of day and season. The loggia can be in shade while the ceremony terrace is bright, or vice versa. Trust your photographer and filmmaker when they recommend ceremony timings. Good light makes a huge difference here.
4. Keep the guest experience simple
The villa is breathtaking, but also spread out. Guests will walk up and down paths, through gardens, and between terraces. Keeping the flow simple — arrival > ceremony > aperitivo > dinner — helps everyone relax and keeps the energy natural. Overcomplicating the schedule usually works against the atmosphere.
5. Allow time for private moments
One of the best things about Balbianello is how peaceful it feels when you step away from the group. If you can, schedule a short window for just the two of you after the ceremony. Even 10 minutes is enough to breathe, take it all in, and give your photographer and filmmaker space to capture honest interactions without pressure.
6. Consider weekday weddings
Because Balbianello is so popular, weekdays often offer more availability, smoother logistics, and a calmer atmosphere. Weekends tend to be more crowded with tourists before and after venue closure times. A weekday wedding can make everything feel more relaxed and private.
7. Trust your vendors
Balbianello is stunning on its own — it doesn’t need heavy styling or complicated staging. The villa, the lake, the views, and the natural movement of guests are what make the day beautiful. Trust your creative team to capture the energy as it is rather than trying to over-script the experience.
About me
Bonjour, I’m Joce
I’m Frenchman living in England, and as an international wedding videographer, there are two things that are really important in my wedding films: it’s all about you and your story. I believe in capturing real, raw emotions and authentic moments with cinematic arstistry.
