Provence is a region of contrasts, offering photographers an array of textures, landscapes, and unique light to explore.
From fields of lavender to historic villages and the Mediterranean coastline, the variety is exceptional. Amateur and professional photographers alike are drawn to Provence, where every location tells a story through its landscape and light. Whether you are an amateur or professional, Provence is a place where every corner has a story waiting to be captured. Join us in exploring the beauty of Provence through the lens.
Light in Provence
Provence’s light is one of the key reasons photographers are drawn to the region. With over three hundred days of sunshine each year, the light has a quality that enhances colours and textures. Early morning and late afternoon light creates soft, warm tones that bring out the blues of the Mediterranean, the ochres of Roussillon, and the greens of olive groves. This distinctive light has inspired some of history’s most famous artists, including Van Gogh and Cézanne, and remains a source of fascination for photographers. Whether capturing the golden hues of a vineyard at sunset or the interplay of light and shadow in a limestone gorge, photographers are often struck by how the light transforms their subjects.
Locations to photograph in Provence
Provence offers a wide variety of landscapes and settings, each with its own appeal. Here are some locations worth visiting with your camera:
Lavender fields in Valensole | In summer, the sweeping lavender fields of the Valensole Plateau deliver dramatic compositions. Perfect rows of lavender stretch toward the horizon, creating a rhythmic contrast against the expansive blue sky. Learn more about lavender season in Provence here.
Luberon villages | Step back in time with perched villages like Gordes, Roussillon, and Bonnieux. Their historic stone architecture and winding streets come alive in the golden light of late afternoon, offering a picture-postcard scene at every turn.
Calanques near Cassis | For coastal vibes, the calanques are unbeatable. Turquoise waters meet rugged limestone cliffs, creating a striking backdrop for bold and dramatic shots.
Provençal markets | Bursting with colour and life, markets in towns like Aix-en-Provence and Saint-Rémy are teeming with inspiration. Capture stalls of vibrant seasonal produce, fresh flowers, and fragrant spices, soaking up the essence of Provence through your lens. Explore markets in Provence today.
Tips for photographing Provence
Provence’s light varies throughout the day, making timing important. Early morning and late afternoon, often called the golden hours, provide the best conditions for photography. During summer, a polarising filter can help reduce glare from strong sunlight and enhance colours in landscapes. Wide-angle lenses are recommended for capturing expansive scenes such as lavender fields or dramatic coastal views. For more focused subjects, such as architectural details or market stalls, a fixed lens with a wide aperture can help isolate the subject and create a soft background blur.
The Rencontres de la Photographie d’Arles
Arles hosts one of the world’s most prestigious photography festivals, the Rencontres de la Photographie d’Arles, every year from July to September. The festival showcases a range of work, from contemporary exhibitions to historical retrospectives, in venues such as Roman ruins and repurposed industrial buildings. For anyone with an interest in photography, this event provides a chance to explore new ideas and techniques in an inspiring setting.
Photographers who worked in Provence
Provence has been a significant source of inspiration for photographers, some of whom have lived and worked in the region.
Willy Ronis | Known for his humanist approach, Ronis photographed villages and local life in Provence with sensitivity and simplicity.
Lucien Clergue| A native of Arles, Clergue co-founded the Rencontres de la Photographie d’Arles and is celebrated for his series capturing the natural landscapes of Provence.
Hans Silvester | A long-time resident of The Luberon, Silvester’s work includes images of lavender fields, olive groves, and perched villages. His photographs reflect his deep connection to the region.
Henri Cartier-Bresson | Often regarded as a pioneer of photojournalism, Cartier-Bresson captured moments in Provence that reflect its quiet charm and timeless beauty.
These photographers have documented the region in ways that continue to inspire, highlighting the diversity of Provence’s landscapes and its enduring appeal.
Learn more about this event in July here.
Provence is a region of extraordinary variety, offering photographers opportunities to capture everything from coastal scenery to historic villages and lavender fields. Its unique landscapes and remarkable light make it an inspiring destination for photographers of all levels. Whether you prefer dramatic coastlines, rural charm, or vibrant markets, Provence provides endless possibilities for exploration through your lens.
A bientôt,
The Provence Holidays team
