A Film Couple Photoshoot in Rome: Veronika and Elek’s Birthday Stroll
Some stories don’t need planning—they just unfold naturally, like a good conversation or a slow walk through Rome.
Veronika and Elek came from Hungary to celebrate his birthday in the most effortless, meaningful way: with a trip to Rome and a spontaneous film couple photoshoot through the city’s historic streets. But this wasn’t just any session—it was shot entirely on 35mm film, using my Leica M6, Canon AE-1 and Yashica Mat 124G, at Veronika’s special request. Why? Because Elek, it turns out, is also a film photographer.
That detail changed everything.
We met at Bar San Calisto in Trastevere—one of those places that feels like it’s always been there, buzzing with locals and plastic cups of wine. It was around lunchtime, and the city felt slow in the best way. We sipped drinks, watched people pass by, chatted about photography, birthdays, life. It was casual, unhurried—just like shooting on film.
From there, we walked. Slowly. Wandering the backstreets of Trastevere, pausing here and there to take photos, snack, and people-watch again on the steps of Piazza Trilussa. We made our way toward Campo de’ Fiori, chasing soft shadows and stolen moments.
There was no timeline, no fixed route—just laughter, real connection, and light that felt like it belonged on film. Veronika had planned this shoot as a birthday surprise, but it turned into something that felt more like a shared memory than a gift.
Shooting couples on 35mm film in Rome is always special—it forces you to slow down, to see differently. It’s not about perfection, but about honesty. And with Veronika and Elek, that’s exactly what we captured: honest, tender, beautiful moments that feel timeless.
