As a photographer, visiting the Dolomites is almost inevitable—this breathtaking landscape is simply irresistible. Within a single national park, you'll find towering mountains, dense forests, and endless opportunities for adventure. Many areas remain undiscovered for photography, making each visit unique. If you're planning the ultimate photography trip, this guide will help you make the most of it.
What Makes the Dolomites Unique?
The Dolomites are renowned for their dramatic peaks—sharp, towering, and strikingly numerous. But why does this matter for photography? It's not just about their sheer size; their jagged peaks create compelling backgrounds that naturally draw the eye into a photo. Few other mountain ranges combine such height and distinctive shapes, making the Dolomites truly stand out.
Beyond the mountains, the Dolomites are equally famous for their seasonal beauty. In summer, vibrant wildflowers cover the hillsides, offering endless foreground compositions for colourful shots. When autumn arrives, the landscape transforms into an equally colorful paradise - golden larches contrast against deep green evergreens, creating a color palette unmatched anywhere else.
Another aspect that makes the Dolomites special is how accessible they are. With excellent infrastructure—including accommodations, restaurants, and well-maintained facilities—exploring this remarkable region is incredibly convenient.
Photography Weather in the Dolomites
Summer (June–August)
Summer in the Dolomites brings warm temperatures, with daytime highs reaching up to 30°C. Be sure to pack a hat and sunscreen to stay protected from the sun! At night, temperatures can drop to around 10°C, though higher elevations may experience near-freezing conditions.
The weather is generally pleasant in summer, but afternoon clouds are common and can lead to heavy rain showers. This can create misty and foggy conditions throughout the day. Most of the snow melts by early July, and wildflowers bloom from May to August, offering vibrant foregrounds for photography.
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn temperatures are cooler, with highs around 15°C and nighttime lows frequently dipping below freezing. The weather is unpredictable, with a mix of clear days, light rain, and occasional fog, especially in the mornings following cold nights. Unlike summer, heavy storms and intense showers are less frequent.
The famous autumn colors—golden larches contrasting against evergreens—typically peak around mid-October, though the timing varies based on elevation and seasonal conditions.
Flowers
Arnica montana, commonly known as mountain arnica or wolf’s bane. It is a bright yellow wildflower found in alpine regions, including the Dolomites. Arnica montana typically blooms in summer and is known for its medicinal properties, often used in herbal remedies.
Pulsatilla alpina also known as (Alpine Pasqueflower) is a common wildflower in the Dolomites and other alpine regions of Europe. In this photo it is in it’s seed stage. It produces large, showy flowers in spring and early summer, which later develop into feathery, wind-dispersed seed heads, as seen in the image. The silky, hair-like structures help the seeds spread through the wind, giving the plant a characteristic "wispy" or "shaggy" appearance in its late stage.
Leucanthemum vulgare, commonly known as the Oxeye Daisy. Oxeye daisies are widespread in alpine meadows, including the Dolomites. They are easily recognizable by their white petals and bright yellow centers. These hardy perennials thrive in mountain grasslands and open areas, blooming from late spring to summer.
Best Locations Dolomites
The Dolomites offer some of the most dramatic mountain landscapes in the world, making them a dream destination for photographers. From towering peaks to fields of wildflowers and serene alpine lakes, each region has its own unique charm. In the next section, we’ll highlight the best locations to capture the natural beauty of the Dolomites: the iconic spires of Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the reflections of Lago di Limides, the fairytale scenery around St. Johann Church, the wild majesty of Alpe di Siusi, the alpine splendor of Passo Rolle or the grand presence of Seceda. Whether you're chasing golden hour light or ethereal morning mist, these spots promise unforgettable shots.
Tre Cime di Lavirado
Located in Tre Cime National park, Tre Cime di Lavirado translate from Italian to Three Peaks of Lavaredo. Aptly named for it’s three distinct and dominant peaks standing tall with the highest being 2,999 meters.
Also known by it’s German name Drei Zinnen which translates to Three Merlons. Merlons are distinctive battlement like features which the mountains resemble closely.
The names of three peaks are:
• Cima Piccola / Kleine Zinne ("little peak")
• Cima Grande / Große Zinne ("big peak")
• Cima Ovest / Westliche Zinne ("western peak").
The easiest route to get there is to park your car at Rifugio Auronzo (Auronzo hut, 2320 m).
From there you can do the round hike also known as Tre Cime di Lacaredo loop and takes roughly four hours. There are multiple huts on the route (four in total) so there is opporunity for a meal and a rest, I would suggest adding an extra hour to your hike if you plan for a lunch. The total distance is 10km.
The more direct route is to hike the mountain pass Forcella Lavaredo (2,5 km). This hike is relatively flat and can be achieved in three hours.
Seceda
Seceda is an incredible and iconic mountain in the Dolomites, and I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary. I rate this location so highly that I even wrote an ultimate photography guide dedicated to capturing its beauty—you can check that out [here]. Below, I’ve highlighted a few key points.
How to Get To Seceda
There are multiple ways to reach Seceda. The easiest option is to take the cable car and gondola from Ortisei, which brings you directly to the top. Alternatively, you can hike to Seceda from either the north or south side. I personally recommend hiking from the south side, as it provides better sunlight throughout the journey and offers a more direct route for those seeking adventure. If your priority is to reach the summit quickly and enjoy the views without a strenuous trek, the cable car and gondola are the best choices.
Photography Tips
Summer: The landscape is dotted with vibrant wildflowers, making it a fantastic time for photography. The best moment to capture the mountain is at sunrise, particularly just before the sun rises or when it is partially obscured by clouds to create a softer, more atmospheric effect.
Autumn: During this season, the ridge or tall grass in the foreground can create stunning compositions. Sunrise remains the best time to shoot, as the sun rises directly between the mountains, adding strong depth and layers to your photos. This effect enhances the scene dramatically! To avoid lens flare, try shooting when clouds diffuse the sunlight or use your hand to block the sun for a cleaner shot.
Lago di Limides
Lago di Limides is a small, high-altitude mountain lake situated at 2,175 meters. It is considered one of the easiest hikes in the Dolomites and is especially famous for its stunning reflections of Passo di Falzarego. There are two main routes to reach this location:
• Starting Point 1: Falzarego Pass (2,107 meters) – 1.8 km hike, approximately 35 minutes.
• Starting Point 2: Rifugio Col Gallina (2,060 meters) – 1.4 km hike, approximately 30 minutes
If it has rained recently, avoid the Rifugio Col Gallina route, as the trail becomes very wet. In snowy conditions, you can use the piste at Rifugio Col Gallina to ascend. The Falzarego Pass route offers better telephoto views while hiking toward Lago di Limides.
Be aware that the lake does not always have water! Water levels fluctuate greatly, depending on rainfall. The best chances of seeing the lake full are after rain, while during dry periods—particularly in winter—it can be partially or completely empty.
In autumn, the landscape is enriched with vibrant colors, including golden larch trees, Swiss pine trees (known as the "King of the Alps"), and Norway spruce trees. If you're interested in learning more about the trees of the Dolomites, check out this article on Trees of the Dolomites.
Photography Tips
What to shoot
• A dead tree trunk in the water can be used as an interesting foreground element—please respect this ancient natural feature!
• Look for leading stones to enhance your composition.
• In summer, flowers can sometimes be found (though they are rare).
• Walk around the area to discover different compositions.
• The lake is an excellent spot for night photography, especially for capturing the Milky Way.
Best Time to Visit
Lago di Limides is beautiful in both summer and autumn, with each season offering unique photographic opportunities.
Sunrise: The light enters from the right side of the lake, creating stunning light rays. Some mountains, including Monte Lagazuoi Piccolo, catch the first light.
Sunset: While the sun won’t be in the frame, Tofana di Rozes (3,225 meters) will catch the warm evening light, making for a striking composition.
Night: A fantastic location for capturing the Milky Way in a pristine alpine setting.
St Johann Church
San Giovanni in Ranui – A Photographer’s Dream
This unique and picturesque church is a favorite among photographers—and for good reason! Under the right conditions, you can capture an epic view of the Geisler Peaks towering behind the church, creating a breathtaking composition.
Known as the Church of San Giovanni in Ranui, this charming landmark is often considered a symbol of South Tyrol’s beauty. The church’s facade is beautifully painted, featuring a depiction of its patron saint. An inscription on the exterior reads, "Erected by Michael Jenner in 1744," likely placed there by his devoted descendants.
San Giovanni in Ranui is especially stunning in autumn, when the vibrant colors of the larch trees perfectly complement the church’s rich tones. The contrast between the golden foliage and the green meadows makes it an ideal subject for photography.
For more details on the church, visit: San Giovanni in Ranui.
Photography Tips
Photography Tips
• Best Season: Autumn offers a beautiful mix of colors, as larch trees turn golden while other trees remain green, creating a striking contrast. (If you're curious why some trees change color and others don’t, it’s related to the difference between deciduous and evergreen trees.)
• Shooting Location: Keep in mind that gates restrict direct access, but you can shoot from a small plateau—fortunately, this spot offers an excellent vantage point.
• Secret Spots: If you're looking for unique hidden viewpoints, consider taking a tour with Max, who knows the best secret vantage points.
• Lens Choice: A telephoto lens (60–90mm range) works well to capture the church with the mountains in the background.
Best Time to Visit
Late morning to early afternoon: The sun is already higher in the sky, providing good lighting conditions. Autumn is the ideal season, unless summer brings dramatic weather, such as moody clouds that enhance the scene.
Alpe di Siusi
Located in the largest high alpine pasture in Europe, the Seiser Alm in German, Alpe di Siusi is a must see! It covers a total area of 56 square kilometers and is a natural paradise for photographers. The most prominent Dolomite peaks that you can see from the Alpe di Siusi are the Sassolungo, Sassopiatto and lo Sciliar con il Burgstall, Euringer, Monte Pez and Santner.
Photography Tips
I recommend going early in the morning and looking for misty conditions. There is a higher chance of mist developing here because of all the grass. What do I mean by this? More grass increases moisture through transpiration, releasing water vapor into the air. This added humidity can lead to greater condensation at cooler temperatures, forming more mist.
In summer, the sun rises directly above the mountains, which can be difficult to shoot. In autumn, it's easier because the sun rises further away.
At sunset during each season, the mountains catch the last light. There is one famous spot where the barns line up nicely (see photo).
alpe-di-siusi-summer-misty-morning.jpg (1725×1300)
I encourage you to try new things—look for trees or new compositions.
alpe-di-siusi-tree-autumn-sunset.jpg (951×1300)
alpe-di-siusi-sunrise-autumn-cows.jpg (1883×1300)
Also, remember to use your telephoto lens to capture interesting moments on the mountain when the sun rises, especially:
alpe-di-siusi-sunrise-lone-tree.jpg (966×1300)
Use a wide-angle lens (18mm) or a telephoto zoom (120mm).
Please note: Parking is not allowed unless you are staying at a hotel in the area. The parking fine can be high. It’s better to join Max on a tour (link).
Passo Rolle
The Rolle Pass, also known in Italian as Passo Rolle (1989 m), is a high mountain pass in Trentino, Italy, connecting the valleys of Fiemme and Primiero, along with the communities between them. The pass was built between 1863 and 1874 when the area was still part of Austria-Hungary.
The dominant peak in this region is Cimon della Pala (3,186 m), which serves as the primary subject for photography. There are three main areas to shoot in this location:
1. Colbricon Lakes – A set of lakes located at the top of the pass.
2. San Martino di Castrozza direction – Views captured after crossing the mountain pass.
3. Val Venegia valley – The lower valley providing a different perspective.
All locations will feature Cimon della Pala in the background, but from different angles, making each shot unique.
Cimon della Pala, sometimes called Cimone or "The Matterhorn of the Dolomites" (il Cervino delle Dolomiti), is the most recognizable peak of the Pale di San Martino group in the Dolomites, northern Italy. While it is not the highest peak in the group—Cima Vezzana is slightly taller—its slender, dramatic summit, visible from Rolle Pass, dominates the landscape
Photography Tips
Photography Tips
1. Colbricon Lakes (The lake on top)
The lake is currently closed to vehicles but hiking there is possible. Use the lake’s reflection for creative compositions. At sunrise there is no light on Cimon della Pala. At sunset the peak gets light, but the angle can make it appear flat—better in autumn for more depth. Finding a unique composition can be challenging—look for flowers in summer to add interest.
2. After the pass, heading toward San Martino di Castrozza
The best spot in this area is near Malga Fosse. Look for flower fields at lower elevations—flower size and shape vary by season. At sunrise there is no light on the peak—the sun rises directly behind it. Look for clearing clouds to add drama. At sunset the light is flat in both summer and autumn. Use a wide-angle lens (14mm) to capture a stunning foreground.
A tip for this location is is to aim for bad weather or clearing conditions for a more dramatic atmosphere.
3. Val Venegia Valley (Down below)
There is paid parking available then it’s just a short hike of 5 minutes to the starting point. In this location you can use the river as a leading line. Also look for flowers next to the river. Drone photography is a good option too! I recommend to use a wide-angle lens (16mm). Don’t be afraid to stand in the water to find the best composition. Similar to Colbricon Lakes at sunrise there is no light on the peak and at sunset light is present but might be flat.
Final Thoughts
The Dolomites are more than just a destination—they’re a visual symphony of dominant peaks, golden light, and dramatic skies that ignite the imagination of every landscape photographer. Whether you're chasing the first light over Tre Cime or capturing the soft alpenglow on the peaks of Seceda, every frame holds the potential for something truly incredible. With ever-changing weather and light, no two visits—or shots—are ever the same. So pack your gear, stay patient, and let the mountains tell their story through your lens.
Max Rive is most driven by seeking new perspectives in the natural world and capturing them in his own distinguished style. Max's powerful portrayals of his interactions with the mountains has earned him international recognition in the outdoor community.
Madison McCardle is a passionate landscape photographer driven by curiosity and a desire to capture the true essence of each place she explores. Through her lens, she seeks new perspectives that reveal the beauty and authenticity of the world.
✉️ JOIN US TODAY
Don't miss out on wallpapers, E-books and tour announcements!
RELATED ARTICLES
DISCUSSION
LEAVE A COMMENT
Your Email Address Will Not Be Published. Required Fields Are Marked *
UPCOMING PHOTO TOURS
- FREE EBOOK -
COMPOSITIONS
17 years of experience - now in one ultimate guide. Download your FREE copy below!
CALENDAR 📆
This are all the workshops listed for this and next year. See also our workshop page and pdf page for more info.
No comments