Tag: santorini vacation photography

FROM AUSTRALIA TO SANTORINI

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FROM AUSTRALIA TO SANTORINI – PRACTICAL TRAVEL ADVICE

 

Many Santorini visitors actually come from from outside EU, from far away lands like the US and Australia. Over the years working on the island as a photographer for many of these couples coming over in long distance flights, I have heard some experiences and gathered a bit of advice on how to make the whole experience better.

 

How to get to Greece on budget 

At this point it’s no surprise for most people that using a travel agent makes everything more expense. But you don’t have to stop there – using an agent also makes your life that little bit easier with package deals and hotel bookings etc. The secret lies in how to get the best deal. What I’ve heard as an approach is doing some flights pricing research on Skyscanner or Momondo before you sten into any travel agents office. With this information, you can say that you’ve done some online research and are looking for some offers from their side. Don’t show them the prices, but have a printed list at hand. As you negotiate, this will make the travel agent not stop at the deal that is the easiest to find for them, but rather the absolute lowest cost option they can provide.

 

From Athens to Santorini

When you land in Athens, it is best to plan a couple of days there to fight jet lag (the flight time is nearly 20 hours, so it’s no joke). When you’re ready to come over, I would suggest considering the ferry instead of flying. The difference in tickets is so huge, that most times you’ll be able to get a return ferry ticket cheaper than a one way flight ticket from Athens to Santorini.

 

Triple check your stuff

Even though it’s self explanatory, I can’t stress this enough. Before you leave, make sure to scan all your itineraries, tickets etc. etc. and save them in a safe place on the cloud. Have printed versions for extra safety, divide them in separate suitcases, just in case. Also, make sure you use mobile apps for flight tickets, if the flight company has one. If you have several suitcases for check-in, divide your stuff strategically – suitcases get lost more often than you think. For a couple, I would suggest sharing space in both suitcases, so that if one gets lost, you each have at least some basic clothing in the remaining one while you’re waiting for delivery.

 

Hope this helps. The main thing is to have an open mind and adapt to whatever happens along the way. That’s the magic of travelling :)

 

Candid Engagement photo shoot in Santorini

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Candid Engagement photo shoot in Santorini

 

Last year has brought some new and exciting couples my way again – I feel truly blessed to work with each and every one. This time I met up with Melandi and Sean, a South African girl and Englishman, who have found each other by some divine fate.

On this day we went for the most magnificent sunset over the Santorini roofs. We agreed that we will be looking for more candid shots, and no other request could make me more glad :) In my work I stride to capture those small and true moments and silly things when the couples radiate genuine love and affection.

They were truly a pleasure to be with and I hope these capture at least a small part of the beauty that is this couple and the Santorini sun :)

Some Santorini PRO tips from couples

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Some Santorini PRO tips from couples

 

I have shared some tips about staying in Santorini already, but I keep meeting couples for photoshoots and all of them have experienced something nice on the island as well. So today I thought I could give you a roundup of some tips I’ve actually heard from them.

 

So here are some Santorini tourist hacks:

 

  • They highly recommend the cable car in Fira. I can only agree, one of the best views of volcano and lava rocks on the island!
  • Sailing is fun of course! Look for boat trips that have “snacks” on board included in the price. Depending on how lucky you are, these can actually turn out to be pretty substantial Greek meals.
  • Buses usually have lines of people waiting for them. If you do not want to be left waiting for the next one, check the departure schedule and arrive around 10 min earlier
  • Places to eat: some places I keep hearing again and again from you guys are 1800, Dimitris and Lolita’s Gelato. Also Kapari Wine restaurant, especially if you manage to book one of the limited tables overlooking the Caldera. What can I say, I can only agree – you have good taste :)
  • Best places to stay include Astra Suites, Grace Hotel and Kapari Natural resort, especially if you’re looking for that authentic Santorini Greek style architecture.

 

Hope this helps with your holiday plans. If you want to find out more, just scroll back to some of the older posts where I cover each of the towns on Santorini in detail!

Wedding anniversary in Santorini port and more

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Wedding anniversary in Santorini port and more

I met up Jacqueline and Luis just a bit before sunset. They had arrived here for their wedding anniversary, but I would not have noticed if they did not tell me that – it seemed that they had met just weeks before. Caring, loving and beautiful couple. Santorini was the ideal place for them.

We talked. They liked the Greek port views at Amoudi Bay. I was intrigued by this idea and of course I agreed, how could I say no to that! We started off with some Oia Caldera views and ended up at the bay just in time to catch a magnificent sunset.

I must say that there was a special energy in the air around them that evening. The two of them, the calm bay and the romantic small Greek port were the perfect mix.

Wish you the very best and hope to see you again in a future anniversary :)

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Vacation photographer Anna Sulte

 

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Some of the best brunch spots in Santorini

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Some of the best brunch spots in Santorini

 

Brunch – the ultimate holiday meal. Choosing the right place for this is a big deal. So here’s a fast rundown of some of the best places you might consider when looking for a relaxed brunch in Santorini!

 

Terra Nera

Agios Georgios, Perivolos 84703, Greece

Coffee and grill house – what could be more suitable for a filling brunch!? Combined with the Aegean sea side this is for sure one of the top places to head!

 

Cafe Galini

Hotel Galini, Firostefani 84700, Greece

Nice minimalistic Greek interior,  bright and cozy – try the pancakes, they’re awesome! And of course, beautiful views for dessert!

 

FlyAway Creative Restaurant &Bar

Eparchiaki Odos Firon – Ias | West East Suites, Imerovigli 84700, Greece

Creatively served excellent food with the backdrop of an amazing view on a glass terrace with infinity pools. Very dreamy if you manage to get a table outside and the weather is in your favour.

 

Kantouni Traditional delicacies

Central Square, Pyrgos 847 00, Greece

More down to earth and serving mostly very traditional simple Greek food – but it’s finger licking good! Also a good place if you’re looking to save some money but still get a great meal.

 

JuiceMe

Leoforos Megalou Alexandrou, Kamari 847 00, Greece

Lot’s of healthy and fresh foods – juices, salads etc. People say this is still one of the best spots to go for dessert :)

 

Some other spots that won’t disappoint

Google these if you’re looking for more options – Santa Irini Bakery in Perissa, Pelican Kipos in Fira, Brusco Wine Coffee Deli  in Pyrgos, ”Chocolat” Creperie – Pasteria – Cafe  in Perissa

Hope this gives you some ideas for your next great meal. Who knows, maybe we meet there! :)

 

Santorini photographer Anna Sulte

Santorini in spring – pros and cons

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Santorini in spring – pros and cons

 

Santorini is on everyone’s minds in the summer – they imagine lonely sandy beaches filled with sun and romantic walks through the village streets. But how about spring? Maybe it’s a good alternative to save money and avoid crowds of tourists? Today I give you some of my observations on the pros and cons of coming to this Greek island in spring.

 

PROS

  • There will definitely be less people around. For many couples that is a solid plus. No lines, less crowds, more laid back experience.
  • Hotels give off season discounts, so if you want to save some money for more travels in the season this is a good hack.
  • You will really be able to appreciate the scenery. If you don’t have to go everywhere with a big tourist group, you get more of the untouched nature to enjoy.
  • For most the summer weather is actually too hot. If you come then, during mid day you will just have not plan anything active, the most you can do then is sit by the pool in shade. Spring does not limit you, and you can fully use the daytime.
  • I would say that it is more authentic and romantic during the spring season. You mostly meet locals and some other active tourist couples.

 

CONS

  • Since there’s less visitors, some of the touristy places might still be closed. That just means you will have a bit less choice for, say, restaurants.
  • If you’re unlucky you might have a bit worse weather. But bad weather in spring just means you need to pack a sweater or two – nothing too crazy. The Greek island climate stays rather dry all year round.
  • If you’re looking for clubbing, you might be disappointed. Depending on the month, most of them will probably be closed. But on the other hand, that means emptier beaches.

 

So these are some of the main things to consider. If you visited during spring, would you add something? Hope this helps and gets you thinking and evaluating. Everyone is different, so I personally can’t say when you should come. All I know is that this is a place to see at least once in a lifetime.

 

Santorini vacation photographer Anna Sulte

Gennessey and Bryan – it’s never too late for a honeymoon!

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Gennessey and Bryan – it’s never too late for a honeymoon!

 

If you ask me, October is the perfect time for a getaway trip. Even more so, if you’re looking to honeymoon! Santorini becomes less crowded and even more romantic – the heat steps down a bit and there’s more locals on the street than tourists…

This is where this amazing couple comes in! Gennessey and Bryan had postponed their honeymoon for a bit, but all that it did was make it even more special! It had been more than a year since they got married, but none of that matters – they had that sparkle in the eyes as if they had married just yesterday. We took to the streets and used the best of the available light and less crowded spots.

What popped into my inbox a couple of days later warmed my heart:

Thank you SO MUCH!!! These photos are absolutely amazing! You completely captured the lighting and feeling that we wanted from these photos. We already miss the island, but we are so happy to have this memory of Santorini and our time with you!

You are so incredibly talented! Thank you, thank you!

Please let us know if you ever come to Seattle!

 

No, THANK YOU! Without meeting these amazing loving couples, my work would be worthless. All the best and hope to meet you again very soon.

Photo shot by Santroini photographer Anna Sulte

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Double photo shoot in Santorini

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Double photo date in Santorini

 

I feel like every time I meet these couples I learn something new. :) This time it was a double date of two best friends – Jennifer and Nina – and their husbands – Michael and Khalil. This whole Santorini photo shoot trip was in great part because Jennifer wanted some photos with her best friend and husband :) And it’s really an honor that they chose me as their photographer.

I hope the images convey at least a part of the huge amounts of love and joy in the air that day. I can honestly say I had a blast.

All the best and hope to see you for some other birthday shoot in future! :)

Best friends photo session in Santorini by photographer Anna Sulte

Explore a different side of Santorini in wintertime

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Explore a different side of Santorini in wintertime

 

Sure, the season is ending on the Santorini island, but that can be used to see a different, more authentic side of this Greek island. Let me share a couple of tips on how to come offseason, save some money and still get an awesome experience.

The type of traveler this is for

It really comes down to what you expect from your visit. Offseason Santorini is more suited to the people looking for a quiet getaway rather that someone looking for partying. Most of the bars and restaurants close down, some of the more authentic ones visited by locals are open.

What to do

The number one activity in this time is active exploring, especially nature hikes. This is the time when Santorini is not crowded by tourists and you can get a more genuine feel about life on the island.

You will have the chance to see some of the most impressive views that are not blocked by crowds, and this also means there’s lots of good photo opportunities – what is not often shared in this blog is the way we have to struggle to not include tourists in some of the in-season couple shoots we do :)

That being said, there’s still some tourist activities going on all year. You will probably still be able to arrange a horse riding trip or go diving (don’t worry, the wetsuits will keep you warm and toasty). The number one thing to check for in a hotel is whether they have a hot tub – this gives you a chance to spend your evenings enjoying life with a bit of wine and sunsets.

In short, there’s still plenty of places to explore and stuff to do, but you have to be active and spend some time planning. If you’re up for that, Santorini will reward you with an authentic experience.

Santorini vacation photographer Anna Sulte
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Magical loving wanderers stop by Santorini

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Magical loving wanderers stop by Santorini

 

Carolina and Arturo are Mexican, but they currently study medicine in Jerusalem. What a combo! They’ve been happily married for 5 years and there’s many more to come. As I met them it was clear that they are truly an adventure loving couple.

We waited for Santorini to do its thing and offer us a marvelous sunset. And it did. When the magic hour struck, it all clicked into place – her pastel dress, his loving look their body language.

It warmed my heart to receive this message the other day, the best thing any photographer could ask really:

Thank you sooo much for such amazing photos! We have no words to tell you how happy and grateful we are about your work!  Is such an amazing work and you’re so talented really! You’re the best! You have the eye to capture an emotion and the perfect moment. These photos are like a treasure for us, we are so happy and we can’t believe are us!  Thank you for everything, during the photo session was really fun.

You’re the best photographer that’s for sure and we are so grateful that we had the opportunity to know you and that you agreed to work with us!

Thank you so much!!! :)

Hugs and kisses

Carolina and Arturo 

 

Carolina, Arturo – Thank you for a truly magical night! Wish you all the best and hope to meet you again soon! With love, Anna. :)

Santorini photographer Anna Sulte

Chill out on a yacht in the Volcanic Lagoon.

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Chill out on a yacht in the Volcanic Lagoon.

 

If you stumbled upon this, I feel that we can probably share this sentiment. Let a Santorini local give you some quick tips to make your experience even more awesome. Here are my top three pieces of info any would-be Santorini yacht rider has to know:

  • The time: This is probably the most undermined thing when reserving a boat – you see the flashy yacht and you just want to get on it anytime possible! But there’s one catch. It’s actually better to choose either morning or evening rides, because in the middle of the day it can be too hot to enjoy Santorini fully, even though you are riding on water.
  • The yacht: Basically pick whichever you like best, but make sure there is a sunroof to get some shade – Santorini sun really bites and it’s even stronger in the Lagoon.
  • Swimming: Make sure you ask the captain if he can stop at the hot springs. It is the absolute best place to do some swimming and diving from the yacht.

And that’s it. If you make sure to follow these three rules you’re dead set on enjoying the best times in the Santorini Volcanic Lagoon. Smooth sailing and see you on the coast!

Santorini photography by Anna Sulte

Rooftop couple photo session in Santorini.

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Rooftop couple photo session in Santorini.

When you’re in love, you have to do some crazy things. I felt Kerry and Sonny shared this feeling and were ready for something different.

Already upon spending the first minutes with them, I immediately felt like they’re my friends whom I haven’t met for ages. And of course these are the kind of people you can go on an adventure together. Oh, and did I mention that they look gorgeous!?

We went to Imerovigli. This time I was prepared to arrange something different – I was going to get them on some rooftops. Of course there were no guarantees and we just had to get there and see…

I was so happy that it worked! Thank you for a wonderful day, I can honestly say that Kerry and Sonny made me feel just like an island explorer. On top of that, they are seriously one of the most loving couples I have ever met!

Santorini photo session by Anna Sulte

The dreaded dilemma – Santorini vs Mykonos.

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The dreaded dilemma – Santorini vs Mykonos.

Let me just start off with pointing out that you will have a great time on both of these Greek islands, no doubt! And now let’s get ready to rumble!

In the right corner of the ring – Mykonos:

  • This is considered the best party island in Greece. If you want to dance till sunrise with your buddies, this is definitely the place for you!
  • They have clubs with such awesome names as Paradise and Super Paradise which are filled with super high quality thumping club music. These attract famous DJs whose sets usually run into the next day.
  • Sandy aches with clear water to rejuvenate you after the parties.
  • Not too family friendly, it will be harder to find things to do for the little ones.

And in the left corner of the ring – Santorini:

  • Mostly known as the best destination for loving couples, many even arrive to the island from abroad to get married in its scenic destinations.
  • More cafes and restaurants with a quiet and chilled vibe.
  • Swimming pools with STUNNING views, like infinity pools that end on the edge of cliffs overlooking the Volcanic Lagoon.
  • All types of interesting and different beaches, like black beaches formed from volcanic sand.
  • More family friendly, you can for example go on horse rides and go to a waterpark. If you take kids, double check that with your hotel – some hotels are on a Cliffside and they do not allow children for safety reasons.

 

The winner: Well, nothing in life is easy. You decide it’s subjective and depends on your needs. But this should help clear up your mind, at least. Whatever you do, make sure to come to Santorini someday.  See you there.

Santorini photographer Anna Sulte

Best birthday gift – magical moments in Santorini.

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Best birthday gift – magical moments in Santorini.

Recently I had the pleasure to meet a couple with a special Santorini arrival story. Raouia and Mouez arrived not only to enjoy the magical Santorini views but also to have a very special birthday photoshoot. They came all the way from France and boy, are they gorgeous or what!?

It seemed like everything just clicked in place as soon as I saw them. Oia village had been long waiting for them. Already in a few minutes I felt like having a leisurely walk with friends. And I think the photos turned out great.

It was also nice to receive this email one late evening while I was doing the edits:

 The photos are just GORGEOUS!!! Having the photo session with you was a pure pleasure. Thanks for being very friendly, cool and professional as well.

All I can do is to be grateful for having such amazing people choose me and hope they come back sometime soon. :)

Fun photo shoot
with Santorini photographer Anna Sulte

Go on a Santorini island expedition – visit Thirasia

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Go on a Santorini island expedition – visit Thirasia

Thirasia is one of the islands that lies close to Santorini. For travellers this means that you can pack much more in your Greece trip! Although the Greek island of all lovers and cute architecture is still Santorini, this smaller island definitely has its own unique things to offer. Today I’ll share some insider tips on how to organize your mini island expedition there.

Thirasia is relatively close to Santorini, the only way to reach it is by boat. Depending on the spot you would like to get off it should take you around 10-20 minutes to reach it. Sounds not so tough, right?  It’s a pretty bumpy ride.

To get there, you can either use the offers from tourism companies or pay 1 EUR if you go with the boat from Amoudi Bay (right next to Oia village).

Now, the point you get off in Thirasia will define your experience on the island. Here’s some options:

Riva: Has a beach from which you can see Oia and a small restaurant. Good spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Korfos: View of Santorini Island, volcano and the unique rocks of Thirasia. You will be able to take a quick swim, but keep in mind that the beach is quite rocky. Still, this place has several restaurants and cafes. Also keep in mind that you will have to do a small climb up a hill to reach the town – you can also rent a donkey.

And there you have it, the secret formula for a day on the neighbouring island, let me know how your trip turned out!

Photo of Amoudi bay, from my phone :)

Anna Sulte Santorini based photohrapher