Engagement Photographer French Riviera – A Romantic Session at Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

As an engagement photographer on the French Riviera, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing countless love stories across some of the most iconic venues in the South of France. One location stands out for its elegance, timeless beauty, and quiet intimacy: Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

This Italian-style villa, perched between Nice and Monaco, offers a dream setting for romantic couple photography. Whether you're planning a surprise proposal, an engagement photoshoot, or celebrating your anniversary, it’s hard to find a more magical spot.

Villa Ephrussi is also one of the most iconic venues for destination weddings on the French Riviera, making it a remarkable setting not only for engagement sessions but also for elegant wedding celebrations.

Why Choose Villa Ephrussi for Your Engagement Session?

Couples from around the world travel to the French Riviera seeking both charm and exclusivity. The Villa Ephrussi offers the perfect blend of both.

Architectural Elegance

With its pastel pink façade, refined interiors, and Italian-style design, the villa radiates elegance and charm in every corner.

Nine Themed Gardens

From the serene Japanese garden to the opulent Florentine garden, each space offers unique backdrops for a diverse and romantic photo gallery.

Mediterranean Light

The golden hour at the villa bathes everything in soft, cinematic light – ideal for engagement photography that feels intimate and timeless.

Quiet & Intimate Atmosphere

Unlike busy tourist attractions, the Villa provides a serene environment where couples can relax and be themselves in front of the lens.

Inspired by a Real Couple: Daria & Mackenzie

One of my favorite sessions was with Daria and Mackenzie. Their engagement shoot at Villa Ephrussi truly reflected the villa’s romantic spirit. We began shooting in the late afternoon, right before sunset. The light was soft and golden, casting a warm glow over the gardens.

As they strolled under rose-covered archways and past water lilies floating in reflection pools, I captured genuine moments of connection – quiet smiles, spontaneous laughter, gentle touches. These images remain some of my most cherished to this day.

The villa’s gardens and terraces are often chosen by couples planning destination weddings on the French Riviera for their timeless elegance.

What to Expect from Your Villa Ephrussi Couple Session

• Guidance and support in preparing your session
• 60 to 90 minutes of relaxed, naturally directed photography
• Multiple unique photo locations across the gardens
• High-resolution online gallery delivered within 2–3 weeks
• Assistance with permits and entry logistics

A Bespoke Experience for International Couples

Many of my clients come from abroad—especially the United States—seeking a destination experience on the Côte d’Azur. I specialize in helping international couples feel at ease, from the first inquiry to the delivery of their gallery.

Whether you're after a polished editorial style or spontaneous candid moments, we’ll create a session that reflects your vision. I also provide recommendations for trusted local vendors (florists, makeup artists, musicians, etc.).

Photographer Who Knows the Villa

Having photographed multiple engagements and proposals at the villa, I know every corner and the best times to shoot. I’ll help you avoid crowded areas, make the most of natural light, and feel comfortable throughout your session.

Being bilingual in English and French also ensures seamless communication with you and with the venue staff.

I regularly photograph couples and destination weddings across the French Riviera, including venues such as Château Eza, Cap-Ferrat and Monaco.

Let’s Create Timeless Memories

There’s something extraordinary about Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild — it has the power to turn ordinary gestures into cinematic memories. If you're looking for a refined and romantic engagement photoshoot on the French Riviera, this venue is unmatched.

If you are planning an engagement session, an elopement or a destination wedding on the French Riviera, Villa Ephrussi offers one of the most elegant settings in the region.

Monaco, with its breathtaking landscapes and romantic allure, served as the perfect backdrop for Nils and Donna to organize a magical proposal. The setting was meticulously planned, capturing the essence of their love story and the beauty of the Principality. Here's a glimpse into their magical day, filled with love, emotion, and stunning vistas.

Nils and Donna have shared many memorable moments together, but none would be as significant as the day Nils asked Donna to be his forever. Nils, whose family resides in Monaco, chose the picturesque locations of Cap d'Ail and Pointe de la Tête de Chien to orchestrate a proposal that would be as symbolic as it was beautiful.

Pointe des Douaniers at Cap d'Ail: Known for its serene beauty and coastal charm, Cap d'Ail's Pointe des Douaniers was chosen for the couple's photo shoot. The azure waters and rocky shores provided a perfect setting for capturing their love through the lens.

Rock of Tête de Chien: Overlooking Monaco, rock of Tête de Chien is a spot known for its breathtaking views and symbolic significance. It offers a panoramic view of Monaco, representing a lookout over their future together. This location was handpicked by Nils for the proposal, adding a layer of meaning to the moment.

Nils, aiming to surprise Donna, cleverly planned a couple's photo shoot to justify my presence. Donna, dressed in a stunning camaieu of blue, complemented the Mediterranean backdrop perfectly. Her dress fluttered in the gentle sea breeze as the couple posed for intimate shots, unaware of the surprise that awaited her.

Nils, dressed in a light grey suit paired with boat deck shoes, looked both casual and elegant. Despite his composed appearance, he was hiding a storm of emotions. The anticipation of the proposal made his heart race, but he maintained his composure to keep the surprise intact.

After the photo shoot at Pointe des Douaniers, Nils led Donna to Pointe de la Tête de Chien. The high vantage point offered a sweeping view of Monaco, symbolizing the vast and promising future that lay ahead of them. As they stood there, Donna now in a short, elegant orange dress that contrasted beautifully against the blue sky and the deep blue sea below, Nils knew it was the perfect moment.

With trembling hands and a heart full of love, Nils took a deep breath and dropped to one knee. His voice, though shaky, was filled with sincerity and emotion as he asked Donna to marry him. The moment seemed to pause, as if the world held its breath along with Donna.

Donna's reaction was a blend of surprise and overwhelming emotion. Waves of joy welled up in her eyes as she realized the depth of Nils' love and the thoughtfulness of his plan. Her "yes" was filled with heartfelt emotion, a promise of a lifetime together. The tension in Nils' face melted away, replaced by sheer happiness and relief.

The happiness and love between them were palpable, making for some truly magical photos. The orange of Donna's dress symbolized warmth and excitement, while Nils' light grey suit reflected elegance and grace.

Every click of the camera captured the essence of their bond, the joy of their engagement, and the promise of a beautiful future. Monaco's stunning vistas provided the perfect canvas for their love story, making each photograph a treasured memory.

In the heart of the enchanting French Riviera, nestled within the charming medieval village of Eze, a love story reached a new pinnacle at the luxurious Hotel Château de la Chèvre d’Or. The stage was set for an unforgettable proposal, meticulously planned by Jax and I, who had crafted the perfect surprise for Suzanne in the hotel's exquisite rose gardens.

The day began with Jax convincing Suzanne that they were scheduled for a romantic couple's photo shoot. Suzanne, elegantly dressed in a stunning black dress, and Jax, looking dapper in a dark blue suit paired with a crisp white shirt, arrived at the hotel with excitement and anticipation. The Château de la Chèvre d'Or, renowned for its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and its beautifully manicured gardens, was the perfect backdrop for what Jax had in store.

As they strolled through the lush rose gardens, the sweet scent of roses wafted through the air. The garden's magical ambiance, with its vibrant blooms and panoramic sea views, created an almost ethereal atmosphere. Amidst this beauty, a violinist awaited their arrival, discreetly positioned to maintain the element of surprise.

When Jax and Suzanne reached the designated spot, the violinist began to play "All of Me" by John Legend. The romantic melody filled the air, enhancing the already captivating environment. Suzanne's eyes sparkled with delight, suspecting that this moment was about to become even more special.

Jax, though visibly nervous, gathered his courage. He took a deep breath, his heart pounding with anticipation. With every step towards Suzanne, his resolve strengthened. Finally, he dropped to one knee, his eyes locking onto hers with a look of pure love and devotion. The world around them seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them in this intimate moment.

Suzanne's eyes welled up with tears of joy and disbelief. Her hands covered her mouth in astonishment as she realized what was happening. Overwhelmed with happiness, Jax presented Suzanne with a beautiful bouquet of red roses, symbolizing his deep love and passion for her. The couple embraced, their hearts intertwined in a moment that felt like a dream. To celebrate their engagement, they opened a bottle of champagne, toasting to their future together amidst the enchanting scenery.

The proposal, however, was only the beginning of their unforgettable day. After the emotional exchange, they embarked on a photo session to capture the magic of the moment. The gardens of Château de la Chèvre d'Or provided a stunning backdrop for their portraits, each click of the camera capturing the joy and love radiating from the newly engaged couple.

Suzanne, with her elegant black dress, and Jax, in his sophisticated dark blue suit, posed against the picturesque setting. We immortalized their happiness, creating memories that they would cherish forever. Each photo was a testament to their love story, a story that had just reached a beautiful new chapter.

The proposal in Eze was more than just an engagement; it was a celebration of love, meticulously planned and perfectly executed. Jax and Suzanne's special moment at the Hotel Château de la Chèvre d'Or, with its magical garden and stunning sea views, was a testament to their deep connection and the promise of a future filled with love and happiness.

As the sun set over the Mediterranean, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, Jax and Suzanne walked hand in hand, ready to embark on their new journey together. Their love, as timeless and beautiful as the roses in the garden, was now beautifully captured in their hearts and memories.

An engagement shoot in paradise

I had the great pleasure of meeting Bianca and Daniel on the Greek island paradise of Santorini for their engagement shoot . Engagement shoots are usually done a year, six months or one month before your big day and offer a number of benefits as well as being an exceptionally beautiful memento of your engagement.

Why do an engagement shoot?

For Bianca and Daniel, a young Romanian couple who live in Manchester, this engagement shoot was the opportunity to have some beautiful shots to use on their wedding invitations , to indulge and make memories whilst getting used to the presence of the photographer .

These shoots enable you to grow in confidence and get used to the camera. As a result, on the big day you will be more relaxed , used to the photographer’s presence and confident that you have chosen the right one! This is also an opportunity to take some time off from your wedding planning which is often stressful. This shoot will be a wonderful break, allowing you to refocus your preparations on your relationship and your shared happiness.

Santorini, a magical setting

The location is an important choice for your couple portraits . Choose somewhere that is important to you and has meaning for both of you, perhaps where you first met or where you got engaged . It could also be somewhere you have always dreamed of going, anything is possible. Travelling has never been so easy so take advantage of special offers and head off! I was thrilled that this lovely couple had chosen Santorini as the location for their engagement shoot and it was taken during a walk through the little village of Imerovigli . I chose this village as it’s less touristy than Fira et Oia which meant that the couple felt less conspicuous and could enjoy their time together. The three of us wandered through tiny deserted streets using the opportunity to capture special moments and glances whilst enjoying the sunshine, the sky and the iconic blue roofs. I took reportage-style photos to allow the models’ true personality to shine through, together with traditional photos, more staged but still very natural.

Bianca and Daniel both wore pastel-coloured clothing which was in perfect harmony with the white walls of the village, blue of the water and the traditional Greek roofs which in turn contrasted with the bright pink of the bougainvillea, and ensured that the photos really conveyed the special atmosphere of the Greek Islands that they had fallen in love with.

Join us soon for your engagement shoot

Whether you’re getting married this year or you are simply looking for a photo shoot that captures your relationship and your love, whether you choose your home town, holiday location or your dream destination, anything is possible for your couple photo session . Let your dreams and the advice of your photographer guide you and enjoy this journey of which your photos will be precious mementoes.

Where is the Domaine

Nestled in the heart of the Alpilles, just minutes away from the charming town of St. Rémy de Provence, the luxurious Domaine de Valmouriane is a serene haven that epitomizes Provençal elegance. Surrounded by centuries-old olive groves, fragrant lavender fields, and a backdrop of rugged limestone hills, this estate offers a timeless retreat where nature and sophistication blend seamlessly.

A mere stone’s throw from Domaine de Valmouriane lies St. Rémy de Provence, a town steeped in history and culture. Wander its narrow cobblestone streets lined with art galleries, quaint boutiques, and vibrant markets. Every Wednesday, the St. Rémy market transforms the town into a feast for the senses, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, handcrafted goods, and more.

For art lovers, the town holds special significance as the place where Vincent van Gogh painted some of his most iconic works during his stay at the Monastery of Saint-Paul-de-Mausole. Walking through the Van Gogh trail, visitors can see the landscapes that inspired the artist’s vivid creations.

The Alpilles Regional Natural Park, surrounding St. Rémy, invites exploration. Whether hiking its scenic trails or cycling through the undulating countryside, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of rolling vineyards, rugged cliffs, and quaint villages. Les Baux-de-Provence, a nearby hilltop town, is another must-visit destination, known for its medieval architecture and the immersive Carrières de Lumières art show.

Domaine de Valmouriane

beyond the domaine, as a lifestyle

With its understated luxury, Domaine de Valmouriane combines modern comforts with traditional Provençal charm. The property’s meticulously restored architecture reflects the region’s heritage, boasting stone walls, terracotta tiles, and pastel shutters. Guests can savor the essence of Provence through its thoughtfully designed interiors, outdoor terraces, and expansive gardens. The estate is particularly renowned for its gastronomy, with menus inspired by local produce and Provençal culinary traditions. Guests can enjoy alfresco dining on a panoramic terrace, relax by the infinity pool, or unwind in the estate's serene courtyard.

A Gateway to Provençal Life

Domaine de Valmouriane isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience of Provence itself as gateway to provencal life . Whether you’re indulging in fine dining, relaxing by the estate’s pool, or exploring the historic and natural treasures of St. Rémy and the Alpilles, this is a place where the rhythms of Provençal life invite you to pause, savor, and be inspired.

a bit of history

Originally rooted in Provence; Domaine de Valmouriane date back to the early centuries when the fertile plains of the Alpilles region were cultivated by the Romans. While the estate in its current form came much later, traces of this ancient legacy remain, with some of its olive groves boasting roots that stretch back several hundred years. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the land on which the Domaine stands was likely used as a traditional Provençal mas (the French word for typical house) —a working farmstead where olive oil, wine, and other staples were produced. Families worked the land, passing their knowledge and traditions from generation to generation.

By the 19th century, the estate began to evolve, reflecting the changing times. As St. Rémy de Provence became a cultural and artistic hub, with its allure attracting notable figures like Vincent van Gogh, estates like Valmouriane were increasingly viewed as places of inspiration and retreat. The original buildings on the property were expanded and refined, blending Provençal vernacular architecture with touches of refinement for which the region is known.

The Domaine survived to the 2nd war, thanks to the dedication of its caretakers and the enduring appeal of Provence’s timeless landscape. In recent decades, the estate was reimagined as a sanctuary for visitors seeking both luxury and a connection to the region’s deep-rooted history.

Today, Domaine de Valmouriane stands as a symbol of Provençal elegance and sustainability. While its historic charm is preserved in its architecture and lush surroundings, modern renovations have turned it into a world-class destination. Its luxurious rooms and suites offer modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. The estate’s olive oil production pays homage to its agricultural roots, while its hospitality offerings invite guests to experience the traditions and culture of Provence in an authentic yet refined way.

for a provencal French life style wedding

Domaine de Valmouriane is the perfect embodiment of Provençal living, blending the natural charm of a country house nestled in unspoiled surroundings with elegant interiors and the refined amenities of a luxury boutique hotel.

A wedding at Domaine de Valmouriane

tips for organizing your wedding

A few months ago, I had the pleasure of participating in an inspiration shoot at the Valmouriane estate.


I want to share with you some tips to help you plan your wedding from a distance while taking into account the various aspects of organizing an event at a domaine in Provence. If you want more information about the domain or the team, please contact me to organize a call.

Then, the Domaine de Valmouriane is the perfect place to celebrate the wedding of your dreams. It offers a magical setting and exceptional service that will make your wedding a memorable event. Follow our tips for organizing and decorating your wedding and you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable time. If you are looking for a photographer to capture your big day, contact me to learn more about my services. I would be happy to help you capture those special moments and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Inspiration your wedding

This one was a bit special because the orist, Laura from Gloriosa Design Floral, wanted to present two themes with two different dominant colors. On one side a very spring-like yellow and on the other a very Provencal purple. I’ll let you discover the result of this day of wedding inspiration shooting and hope this will help you to project yourself and nd ideas for your big day.

Domaine de Valmouriane, Petite route des Baux - D27, 13210Saint-Rémy-de-Provence