An authentic narrative in the countryside of Certaldo

Documenting the wedding of Allison and Leeland at Relais Dimora De’ Coloni was an exercise in capturing connection within a minimalist, rural setting. Located just outside Certaldo, this restored farmhouse offers a landscape defined by the typical lines of the Val d'Elsa, providing a solid and unpretentious backdrop for an intimate story.

The ceremony took place in the garden, under the open sky. For a documentary photographer, an intimate outdoor wedding like this is ideal: without the distractions of a large crowd, the focus remains entirely on the exchange of vows and the spontaneous reactions of a few close guests. I chose to work with the natural light and the surrounding greenery to create a faithful chronicle of the rito, avoiding any artificial intervention or directed poses.

Following the ceremony, we utilized the property’s grounds for a session that followed the couple’s natural pace. From the garden paths to the stone textures of the farmhouse, the photography remained an observation. The absence of a rigid schedule allowed Allison and Leeland to simply exist in the space, permitting me to capture their interaction in a way that feels cinematic and grounded.

The reception was a study in conviviality. A single long table, genuine conversations, and the quiet atmosphere of the Tuscan evening. My work here focused on the energy of the group and the small, unposed gestures that define an intimate event. To enhance the story, we integrated 4K video and drone footage, contextualizing the farmhouse within the rolling hills of Certaldo and providing a complete visual legacy of the day.

This gallery at Relais Dimora De’ Coloni represents the power of small-scale weddings: a focus on connection, a respect for the environment, and a documentary approach that prioritizes truth over tradition.