Top five tips for photographing Rome

Rome is one of Europe's most photogenic cities, and there are several sights that are well worth photographing if you make best use of the light. However, it's not only at it's best on a sunny day; at night, the city lights up like a Christmas tree and if you know where to look, you can take photos that look like postcards.

The Colosseum
Few international landmarks are as recognisable as the Colosseum. It's a worthy photography subject early in the morning or late in the afternoon, but to see it at its best, it should be visited at dusk when it is illuminated. Don't forget to use a tripod to avoid blurred photos, and a wide angle lens in order to fit the entire building in your frame. The Forum
Slightly north-west of the Colosseum is the Forum, which can only be described as a junk-yard of priceless antiquities. Overgrown with weeds, this outdoor museum - surely the most valuable in Roman history - is best photographed in the early morning when the arches, temples, shrines and columns are bathed in soft light. Trevi Fountain
It's difficult to get a shot of the fountain without tourists blocking your view, so try to visit early in the morning. However, if shadows cast by the surrounding buildings cause lighting problems, visit at dusk and, placing your camera on a tripod, photograph the fountain from the low wall that surrounds it. In this way, you will avoid people in your photos and the slow shutter speed will result in the water taking on a silky, aesthetically pleasing affect. Vatican City
A dawn excursion to this tiny mini-state, which is home to the Pope, will reward you, particularly if it's sunny. The elegant façade of St Peter's Basilica turns golden in the early morning light. As the city awakens, St Peter's Square is ideal for photos of Romans going about their business surrounded by fountains, statues and historic buildings.