Planning a European photoshoot can be as thrilling as it is overwhelming. With centuries-old cities, sun-soaked coastlines, and postcard-perfect villages, Europe offers an endless array of dream backdrops. Italy has long held the spotlight as a go-to destination for travel photography, but Malta is quickly becoming a favourite among those in the know.
If you’re weighing up whether to book your next professional photoshoot in Malta or Italy, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore why Malta may just be the perfect canvas for your European photoshoot.
A Quick Look at Iconic Locations: Italy vs Malta
Choosing the perfect backdrop for your European photoshoot often comes down to the vibe and variety of the location. Italy, with its legendary landmarks and cinematic charm, has long been considered a classic choice. Yet, Malta—smaller in scale but rich in character—offers compelling alternatives that are just as captivating. Below, we’ve compared some of the standout photoshoot spots in both countries to help you decide where your dream session could come to life.
Italy
A photoshoot in Italy is an experience steeped in elegance and grandeur. From the romantic canals of Venice to the Renaissance charm of Florence, each setting evokes timeless beauty. Italy offers sweeping landscapes and world-famous backdrops that are cinematic and dramatic. However, these iconic locations often come with logistical challenges—crowds, travel distances, and busy urban centres. A photoshoot in Italy typically demands more preparation but rewards you with unforgettable, high-impact imagery full of history, culture, and style.
- Venice Canals – The timeless charm of gondolas and ornate bridges makes Venice one of Italy’s most iconic photography locations. However, the narrow lanes and frequent crowds can make it difficult to capture clean, undisturbed images.
- Amalfi Coast – With its cliff-hugging villages, winding roads, and panoramic views, the Amalfi Coast is undeniably photogenic. It’s also extremely popular, meaning parking, access, and timing all need careful planning.
- Tuscany’s Vineyards – Rolling hills, golden light, and rustic villas offer cinematic beauty, but the spread-out nature of the region often demands long drives and local know-how.
- Rome’s Landmarks – The Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps provide dramatic settings steeped in history. Yet with tourists everywhere, getting a clear shot often means shooting at sunrise or waiting for the perfect moment.
Proposal photoshoot by Camilla, Localgrapher in Venice
Malta
A photoshoot in Malta offers a more intimate and relaxed experience without sacrificing visual appeal. This small island nation is packed with character—from honey-hued ancient cities to turquoise coves and windswept cliffs. The reliable sunshine, walkable distances, and uncrowded locations make Malta a stress-free yet visually diverse destination for photography. Whether you’re after romantic moments, solo portraits, or vibrant travel shots, a photoshoot in Malta allows you to capture a Mediterranean dream with ease, spontaneity, and charm.
- Mdina Old City – Often referred to as the ‘Silent City,’ Mdina is a medieval treasure with narrow alleyways, golden stone walls, and an atmosphere of calm. It’s a dream for photographers seeking quiet elegance and timeless charm.
- Blue Grotto – This natural wonder features luminous blue waters framed by dramatic sea arches. It’s an ideal spot for ethereal couple or solo portraits that highlight the sea’s natural beauty.
- Valletta Streets – The capital city is a treasure trove of architecture, colour, and life. With its grand balconies, steep stone steps, and harbour views, it provides a dynamic urban backdrop steeped in history.
- Marsaxlokk Harbour – This working fishing village bursts with character. Traditional ‘luzzus’ painted in bright blues and yellows, market stalls, and calm waterfronts make for authentic, eye-catching compositions.
Proposal photoshoot by Tumer, Localgrapher in Valletta
Whether you’re drawn to Italy’s legendary landmarks or Malta’s relaxed Mediterranean charm, your European photoshoot should reflect your style, comfort, and vision. Both countries deliver visual magic, but Malta’s accessibility, friendly pace, and consistent weather give it an edge for travellers who want effortless beauty with professional results.
10 Reasons Why Choose Malta for Your European Photoshoot
When planning a professional photoshoot in Europe, most people immediately think of France or Italy. But tucked away in the heart of the Mediterranean is a small island that offers an equally breathtaking experience, without the stress or crowds. Malta combines historical charm, dazzling natural scenery, and reliable weather, making it a hidden gem for any kind of shoot.
Whether you’re proposing, travelling solo, or capturing memories with loved ones, here’s why Malta deserves a top spot on your list for a European photoshoot.
Historic Sites
Unlike Italy’s heavily touristed landmarks, Malta’s historic towns like Mdina and Birgu offer timeless beauty in a serene environment. These cities feel like open-air museums, yet remain unspoiled by the hustle of tourism, allowing your photographer to take their time crafting thoughtful, composed images that truly highlight the location—and you.
Couple photoshoot by Tumer, Localgrapher in Valletta
Natural Gems
From the Dingli Cliffs to Għajn Tuffieħa Bay, Malta boasts dramatic coastal vistas and untouched beaches that many visitors overlook. These settings give you the chance to capture striking, nature-focused shots that feel exclusive and fresh, without straying far from civilisation.
No Early Wake-Up Calls
Iconic photos in Italy often require very early starts to avoid crowds. In Malta, you can shoot in the late morning or afternoon and still have clear, peaceful locations. This flexibility makes the experience more enjoyable and less exhausting—especially important for families or couples on holiday.
Proposal photoshoot by Tumer, Localgrapher in Valletta
Effortless Logistics
With fewer crowds and shorter distances between key sites, a shoot in Malta runs smoother from start to finish. Less time waiting, easier parking, and a compact layout mean you can visit multiple varied locations without having to rush or compromise your vision.
Intimate Moments
Whether you’re planning a surprise proposal or a relaxed family shoot, Malta’s tranquil settings help you feel present and connected. Without distractions or bystanders, you can focus fully on the experience—resulting in more natural, meaningful images.
Proposal photoshoot by Tumer, Localgrapher in Valletta
Consistent Sunshine
With over 300 days of sun annually, Malta provides some of the most reliable lighting conditions in Europe. This makes scheduling easier and increases the chances of getting vibrant, well-lit shots—without worrying about overcast skies or constant rescheduling due to unpredictable weather.
Solo photoshoot by Tonio, Localgrapher in Valletta
Golden-Hour Magic
Malta’s coastlines and sandstone buildings come alive at golden hour. The warm glow of the setting sun creates a soft, flattering light that enhances skin tones and adds depth to every frame. Whether you’re on a beach or in an ancient street, the light brings romance and richness to your photos.
Mediterranean Palette
Malta is a painter’s palette come to life. Vivid blue fishing boats, pastel doors, flowering balconies, and sun-washed alleys create a burst of colour that enlivens every image. These contrasting hues provide a dynamic background for both modern and timeless looks.
Family photoshoot by Tumer, Localgrapher in Valletta
Crystal-Clear Waters
Few places in Europe offer such stunning seascapes. Malta’s clear waters not only look breathtaking from above, but also allow for creative underwater shots, playful reflections, and unique compositions—especially in places like the Blue Grotto and St. Peter’s Pool.
Season-Proof Destination
While much of Europe turns grey or dreary in winter, Malta remains inviting. Even during the off-season, you’ll find plenty of bright, dry days and temperatures mild enough for outdoor sessions. This makes it an ideal year-round destination, especially for couples or families trying to avoid peak travel months.
Choosing the right destination for your photoshoot can shape not just your final images but your entire experience. With its laid-back lifestyle, friendly locals, diverse backdrops, and golden Mediterranean light, Malta makes the process smooth and memorable from start to finish. It’s an ideal setting for creating photographs that are not only beautiful but deeply personal—something Italy may promise, but Malta quietly delivers with ease.
How Malta Makes European Photoshoots Easy
One of Malta’s greatest advantages as a photoshoot destination lies in its simplicity. Unlike sprawling countries that require hours of travel between key locations, Malta offers a compact, well-connected setting that’s incredibly easy to navigate.
Whether you’re travelling with a family, surprising your partner with a proposal, or fitting a shoot into a short city break, Malta allows you to make the most of your time—and your photographer’s lens—without the usual logistical headaches.
Short Distances
Malta’s small footprint means that you can explore several shoot locations without spending your day in transit. From historic streets in Mdina to coastal cliffs and vibrant harbours, all are within 30–45 minutes of each other.
No Long Transfers
Forget navigating Italian train timetables or spending hours on winding coastal highways. In Malta, everything is a short, scenic drive away, making even half-day shoots feel productive and relaxed.
Budget-Friendly
Shorter travel times and lower transport costs mean you can spend more on what really matters—your outfits, props, or even additional shooting time. This makes Malta a smart choice for cost-conscious travellers who still want luxury results.
Multiple Looks
You don’t have to choose between a rustic village, a grand city, and a dramatic coastline—Malta offers all of these and more in one place. The versatility of backdrops makes it easy to create a gallery that feels expansive and thoughtfully curated.
Family photoshoot by Tumer, Localgrapher at Malta
Streamlined Planning
With so many locations nearby and minimal traffic to worry about, it’s easy to adapt your plan on the fly. Want to squeeze in a sunset shot after lunch? In Malta, that’s totally doable—no stress required.
English-Speaking Locals
Communication is rarely a barrier in Malta, where English is one of the official languages. This makes planning your shoot and coordinating with your photographer simple and comfortable, even if it’s your first time visiting.
Laid-Back Atmosphere
The relaxed pace of life in Malta helps you stay calm, centred, and confident in front of the lens. Whether you’re strolling a quiet beach or wandering a quaint village street, that unhurried energy translates beautifully into your photos.
Family photoshoot by Polina, Localgrapher at Mdina
Supportive Photographers
Many Maltese photographers are experienced in working with international clients. They’re not only technically skilled but also offer valuable local insight—suggesting hidden gems, ideal times of day to shoot, and the best angles at each location.
Friendly Faces
Malta is known for its hospitality. Locals tend to be warm, approachable, and happy to see visitors enjoying their homeland—creating an inviting atmosphere that puts you at ease during every moment of your session.
Tourist-Friendly
From intuitive signage to accessible transportation and a wide selection of cafes and accommodations, Malta is incredibly easy to navigate. That means fewer headaches and more focus on the fun, meaningful parts of your shoot.
Couple photoshoot by Tonio, Localgrapher at Malta
In a destination like Malta, convenience doesn’t come at the expense of variety or quality. With just a short drive separating its beaches, towns, and countryside, you can create a versatile portfolio of images in a single day. Add to that the relaxed pace, reliable infrastructure, and helpful locals, and you have a setting that not only looks beautiful in photos—but feels effortless in every way.
Sample Itinerary: Your Dream Photoshoot in Malta
One of the best things about planning a photoshoot in Malta is how easy it is to make a full day feel like an adventure through multiple worlds. Thanks to the island’s compact size and incredible diversity of landscapes, you can seamlessly move from ancient cities to dramatic coastlines—all in a single, relaxed itinerary.
Whether you’re working with a professional photographer or planning a self-guided shoot, this sample schedule will show you just how magical and efficient a day in Malta can be.
Dingli Cliffs
Begin your day with a dramatic seascape as the sun rises over the Mediterranean. The towering cliffs and endless ocean views create an awe-inspiring setting for portraits filled with emotion and serenity. Ideal for couples, solo travellers, or dreamy editorial-style shots.
Streets of Mdina
Stroll through the hushed alleys of Mdina, Malta’s ancient walled city known for its golden limestone and elegant facades. This quiet setting offers beautifully diffused morning light, arched doorways, charming balconies, and vintage character that’s perfect for timeless portraits.
Vibes in Valletta
Capture the energy of Malta’s bustling capital with photos among historic architecture, patterned tilework, and sweeping sea views. Valletta offers a more dynamic and colourful urban vibe, with plenty of character for street-style or travel editorial shots.
Lunch Break
Pause at a local café for a delicious meal—perhaps some fresh seafood or traditional ftira—while taking a moment to refresh and change outfits. This mid-day break helps reset the tone for a new location and provides a relaxed moment for candid, lifestyle images.
Coastal Charm
This vibrant fishing village of Marsaxlokk is brimming with charm. Snap cheerful portraits along the harbour filled with traditional luzzus (brightly painted boats), or shoot wide-angle lifestyle scenes in the local market. It’s an ideal mix of authenticity and colour.
Golden Hour
End your day with barefoot moments along the peaceful, crescent-shaped beach at Għajn Tuffieħa Bay. The natural light at golden hour bathes the cliffs and water in a warm glow—perfect for intimate, windswept photos that feel cinematic and relaxed.
As you can see, a photoshoot in Malta doesn’t just deliver on stunning visuals—it also gives you the gift of time and ease. With so many gorgeous locations close together, you won’t be rushing from place to place. Instead, you’ll be soaking in the scenery, enjoying the moment, and capturing every detail of your day in a way that feels natural, effortless, and genuinely unforgettable.
FAQs About European Photoshoot at Malta
Planning a European photoshoot brings a lot of excitement—but naturally, a few questions too. Whether you’re wondering about the best time to shoot, what to wear, or how to find a local photographer, this section covers the most common queries travellers have when considering Malta for their European photoshoot. Here’s everything you need to know to feel confident, prepared, and inspired before stepping in front of the camera.
“Malta was always very special to me. I remember happy days here with Prince Philip.” — Queen Elizabeth II
Q: Is Malta really a good alternative to Italy for a European photoshoot?
A: Absolutely. While Italy is a classic, Malta offers a unique charm with fewer crowds, stunning light, and a surprisingly diverse range of locations in a small and easy-to-navigate area.
Q: When is the best time for a photoshoot in Malta?
A: Thanks to its mild climate, Malta is great for photoshoots year-round. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer ideal conditions—warm temperatures, beautiful light, and fewer tourists.
Q: How does the cost compare between a photoshoot in Malta and a photoshoot in Italy?
A: Generally, Malta can be more affordable. Photography packages, accommodations, and transportation tend to be less expensive, especially in comparison to Italy’s major tourist cities like Rome, Venice, or Florence.
Q: What types of photoshoots work best in Malta?
A: Malta is ideal for a wide range of sessions including engagements, elopements, solo travel portraits, family shoots, and even fashion or brand campaigns. The variety of backdrops makes it highly versatile.
Q: Can I hire a professional photographer easily in Malta?
A: Yes! Malta has a growing community of talented photographers who are experienced in working with travellers. Many specialise in destination shoots and are familiar with the best spots and light conditions.
A photoshoot in Italy is a dream many travellers share—and rightly so. It’s a country steeped in history, romance, and cinematic charm. But if you’re looking for a destination that offers stunning visuals without the logistical headaches, a photoshoot in Malta could be your best-kept secret.
From golden sunsets over ancient towns to clear turquoise waters lapping gently at your feet, Malta delivers a European photoshoot experience that’s equal parts beautiful and effortless. It’s an under-the-radar gem that gives you the luxury of Italy’s charm, minus the stress.
