Insights · Next day in Cappadocia
Hundreds of hot air balloons rise into the sky as the sun comes up. Below, the valleys and their strange rock formations glow pink and gold. Cappadocia is perhaps the most cinematic destination for a next day photo shoot.
Here we show you Cappadocia through Konstantinos and Katerina's shoot: the balloons, a classic car, the valleys, the white canyons and the caves. We also cover what you need to know if you're dreaming of something similar.
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Why Cappadocia
Cappadocia, in the heart of Turkey, is a landscape that hardly looks real. Volcanic rock shaped by nature over thousands of years, homes and churches cut into the stone, and valleys that change colour through the day.
For a couple, that means a range of settings you rarely find in one place: within a few kilometres there's a sky full of balloons, wild landscapes, white canyons and warm, traditional interiors.
Sunrise with the balloons
This is why most couples are up before the sun. The balloons are inflated while it is still dark and, as soon as day breaks, they rise one by one above the valleys. It only lasts a few minutes, and it's unlike anything else.
The light at that hour is soft and warm. We work quickly but calmly, so you can enjoy the moment and don't feel like you're posing.
Balloon flights depend on the weather and are confirmed each morning. That's why we suggest keeping at least two mornings free in the area.
A classic car among the balloons
With Konstantinos and Katerina, we wanted more than just the balloons. A red classic car gave the images a retro, cinematic feel, like a scene from a road movie.
The valleys and the fairy chimneys
Once the balloons have landed, Cappadocia shows a different side. The tall, conical rocks that locals call “fairy chimneys”, the dry grasses and the deep blue sky make for strong, simple images.
White canyons and caves
Inside the canyons the rock is almost white and works like a huge reflector. The light falls softly on the wedding dress, even when the sun is high.
The caves that people carved into the stone have their own arches and openings. There the light comes in from one side only, and the images become quieter, almost painterly.
Carpets, clay jars and colour
Cappadocia is famous for its handmade carpets. Surrounded by piles of rugs and clay jars, the white wedding dress stands out against a rich, warm backdrop.
How a next day in Cappadocia is organised
- Combine it with your honeymoon. The shoot usually takes place in the first days of the trip, so that you can enjoy your holiday afterwards.
- Keep two mornings free. If the weather grounds the balloons on the first morning, we have a second chance.
- Be ready for cool mornings. Even in summer it is cold before sunrise. A coat to throw on between shots makes a big difference.
- Comfortable shoes for the paths. In the valleys and canyons we walk on earth and stone. The wedding shoes go on only for the photos.
- We plan the route together. Before the trip we choose the spots and their order, depending on the light and what you love most.
If you love trips like this, see our other destinations abroad too.
Frequently asked questions about a next day in Cappadocia
Do you travel to Cappadocia for a next day photo shoot?
Yes. We have photographed couples in Cappadocia and we plan every detail of the trip with you.
Are the balloons guaranteed to fly?
Not always. Flights depend on the weather and are confirmed the same morning. That's why we suggest keeping two mornings free.
Which season is best?
Spring and autumn have mild temperatures. In summer the days are hot but the mornings are cool. In winter the landscape may be covered in snow.
Can we combine Cappadocia with another destination?
Yes. For example, you could pair it with a trip to Istanbul or with other stops on your honeymoon.
Dreaming of Cappadocia?
Tell us your wedding date and when you are thinking of travelling. We'll plan a balloon-filled morning together.
Photographs: Dimitris Stergiou and the studio team