Our photographic adventure starts from the most iconic spot - the shore of Lake Braies (Braies Lake). It is here, at the famous marina with wooden boats, that you can capture the classic shots that have become a hallmark of the place. The best time for photography is early morning, when the surface of the water is as smooth as a mirror, reflecting the majestic peaks of the Dolomites. For best results, it is advisable to arrive at the site even before sunrise. The first rays illuminating the mountain peaks create a magical play of light and shadow on the turquoise surface of the lake.

The Altes Holzhaus Pragser Wildsee, a historic wooden house on the lake, makes a perfect foreground for your photos. Its rustic architecture blends perfectly with the natural surroundings, adding depth and character to your photographs. You can get particularly striking shots by positioning yourself so that the house is reflected in the water along with the surrounding mountains.

For families with children, a morning at the lake is not only an opportunity to take beautiful photos, but also a time for a quiet walk along the shore. It's worth pointing out to the little ones the variety of colors of the water - from deep blue to emerald green, depending on the angle of the light and depth. This is an excellent lesson in photography and nature all in one.

Comparing the two vantage points, it's worth noting that the area around the marina offers a more open perspective of the entire lake, ideal for wide panoramas. In contrast, the area around the Altes Holzhaus allows for more intimate, atmospheric shots with the architecture in the background. Both locations are easily accessible and do not require long hikes, making them ideal for families with young children or those with limited mobility.

Keep in mind that during the summer season (July through September), access to the lake by car is limited between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. It's worth planning to arrive early in the morning or take public transportation. P3 parking at the lake costs 8 euros for a full day (as of 2023), but prices are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check up-to-date information on the lake's official website before visiting.

To capture the full beauty of Lake Braies, it's worth climbing a bit higher. The Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park (Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park) offers a number of hiking trails that lead to spectacular viewpoints. One of the most recommended is the trail around the lake, which allows you to see Pragser Wildsee from different perspectives.

The trail around the lake is an approximately 3.5-kilometer loop that can be completed in 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and the number of stops for photos. The trail is relatively easy and accessible to families with children, although some sections can be more challenging. It is advisable to start from the left side of the lake (looking toward the mountains), where the path is a bit easier and offers a gradual ascent.

During the hike, you will encounter many natural viewing terraces that allow you to capture a panoramic view of the lake with the surrounding peaks. Particularly impressive shots can be taken from points on the southeastern shore, from where you can enjoy a view of the entire lake with the characteristic peninsula in the background.

For more advanced photographers and trekkers, the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park offers more challenging trails leading to the surrounding peaks. From there, you can get a truly bird's-eye perspective of Lake Braies and the surrounding Dolomites. However, these trails require proper preparation and equipment, so they are not recommended for families with young children.

Of note is the Cappella 'Lago di Braies' shrine, which makes an interesting foreground element for landscape photography. This small shrine, located on the shore of the lake, adds charm and depth to the photos, especially during the golden hour, when the light becomes soft and warm.

When comparing different vantage points along the trail, keep in mind that each offers a slightly different perspective. Views from lower along the path capture the details of the water surface and reflections, while higher points offer more panoramic shots, showing Braies Lake in the context of the surrounding mountains.

It's worth scheduling your visit at different times of day to capture the changing light. Morning mists hovering over the surface of the water create a mystical atmosphere, perfect for moody photographs. Sunsets, on the other hand, paint the sky and water with warm colors, offering spectacular opportunities for dramatic shots.

Remember that weather conditions in the mountains can change quickly. Always check the forecast before hitting the trail and be prepared for changing weather. However, changing weather can offer unique photographic opportunities - storm clouds or sunlight breaking through can create unusual lighting effects.

The Braies Lake offers photographers extraordinary opportunities year-round, with each season bringing unique perspectives and attractions. In spring, as the snows melt and nature awakens, the surrounding meadows are covered with colorful flowers, creating a beautiful contrast with the lake's turquoise water. This is the perfect time for macro photography and shots that combine details of nature with the panorama of the mountains.

In summer, when the water level in the lake is at its highest, take the opportunity to rent a traditional wooden boat at the Altes Holzhaus Pragser Wildsee. The perspective from the water allows you to capture unique frames, inaccessible from the shore. The cost of renting a boat is about 15-20 euros for half an hour (prices as of 2023, subject to change), but the experience and photos are worth it. Remember, however, that in high season it can be difficult to get a free boat, so it's worth coming early in the morning.

Autumn is the time when the surrounding forests explode with color, creating a spectacular setting for landscape photography. Golden and red leaves contrast with dark green spruce trees and blue water, offering amazing compositional possibilities. This is also a time when tourists are fewer in number, allowing for quieter photography.

Winter transforms Lake Braies into a fairyland. The frozen surface of the lake, snow-capped peaks and frosted trees create a magical setting. This is the time for unique shots, unavailable at other times of the year. However, it is worth remembering to prepare properly - winter conditions in the mountains can be demanding.

For those looking for truly unique frames, consider night photography. Braies Lake, located away from large human concentrations, offers excellent conditions for photographing the starry sky and the Milky Way. Long exposures allow you to capture the reflections of the stars in the surface of the lake, creating truly magical images.

When comparing the different seasons of the year and day, it's worth noting that each offers different challenges and opportunities. Summer mornings are ideal for quiet reflections in the water, but require getting up early. Winter landscapes are spectacular, but require the right equipment and preparation. Autumn colors are most intense in the middle of the day when the sun is high, which in turn can make exposure challenging.

Regardless of the season or day, the key to successful photography at Lake Braies is patience and careful observation. The light changes dynamically, especially in the mountains, and a moment's wait can result in a remarkable frame.

For families with children, photography at Braies Lake can be a great opportunity to learn about nature and photography. It's worth encouraging the little ones to take their own photos, drawing their attention to the changing light, colors and textures. This not only develops creativity, but also teaches attentiveness and appreciation of nature's beauty.

Remember that although Braies Lake is a popular tourist destination, it is still part of a fragile ecosystem. When photographing, always follow the rules of responsible tourism - don't go off the trails, don't leave trash and respect nature. This is the only way to preserve the beauty of this place for future generations of photographers and nature lovers.