Photography has always been more than just a hobby for me; it has been a way to connect with the world and to tell stories “in silence”. My journey from taking my first shots to becoming a professional photographer has been filled with lessons, growth, and some unforgettable experiences. In this post, I want to share the key milestones of my path, the challenges I’ve faced, and the inspirations that have shaped my work. I hope my story can resonate with fellow photographers and inspire those who are just starting out.
THE FIRST CLICK
Every photographer remembers their first camera and the excitement of discovering the magic of photography. For me, it all started with an instant Polaroid camera and an antique Zenith reflex that my grandpa gifted me. I was fascinated by how a simple click could freeze time, capturing emotions and details that might otherwise go unnoticed.
My early photos were far from perfect, but they were filled with curiosity and a desire to explore. I experimented with different subjects – especially while I was studiyng art at the high school – but my favorite ones were definitely people around me, some still life and the lively life of my city, Naples. To be honest, I was n ot that much into the rules, I just wanted to take snapshots and memories, but looking back, I have to say that my approach was really instinctive and organic, a way of seeing the world that I would love to preserve during my whole life.
TURNING POINT
As my passion grew, I realized I wanted to improve my skills and maybe creating something professional starting from that point. This led me to a photography course held by the European Community: after winning a competition to get in, I studied commercial photography and editing for a year. I learned about the technical aspects of photography, but also discovered the importance of storytelling and emotion in an image. This experience taught me that photography is not just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about conveying a message and evoking feelings.
I worked for several years for companies and agencies, until I decided to start my own business, and this was, more than anything, the pivotal moments in my journey.
THE EVOLUTION OF MY WORK
Over time, my photography evolved, and I began to develop a style that felt authentic to me. I was drawn to portraiture and a kind of documentary lifestyle, inspired by the works of great photographers and artists like Annie Leibovitz.
Finding my voice as a photographer was a journey in itself. It involved a lot of trial and error, countless photo shoots, and a willingness to step outside my comfort zone. I discovered that my best work often came from moments of vulnerability and genuine connection with my subjects, whatever they are.
I discovered that my best work often came from moments of vulnerability and genuine connection with my subjects, whatever they are.
TAKING THE LEAP
Turning my passion into a profession was both exciting and challenging. My first professional job was with a fashion company, and going through a lot of different experiences and works. It was a validation of my efforts and a reminder of how far I had come.
Building a photography career required more than just creative skills. I had to learn about marketing, client relations, and business management. I faced setbacks and doubts, but each challenge taught me resilience and adaptability. One of the most significant challenges I faced was during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a photographer who works mainly with foreign people in Italy, my business was heavily impacted by travel restrictions and the sudden halt of tourism. The uncertainty of not knowing when things would return to normal was daunting.
I had to quickly adapt, exploring new ways. This included shifting my focus and even diversifying my income streams exploring different photography niches. Although it was a difficult period, it taught me the importance of flexibility, innovation, and the power of community support.
MEMORABLE PROJECTS AND LESSONS LEARNED
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working on projects that pushed me to grow both personally and professionally. One of the most memorable projects was following was to have been the personal photographer of the head of UNESCO, Madame Audrey Azoulay, during her visit to Naples for the UNESCO convention. But I could share A LOT of moments that taught me valuable lessons about patience, attention to detail, and the importance of preparation.
Photography has also allowed me to connect with incredible people and places all over Italy and Europe, discovering the essence of a place also through the stories – and the eyes – of their people.
WHAT’S NEXT
Looking back, I’m grateful for every step of this journey – the triumphs, the mistakes, the moments of doubt, and the breakthroughs. Photography has not only shaped my career but also enriched my life in countless ways.
As I continue this journey, I’m excited to explore new projects and challenges. My current focus is on film photography and super 8mm videos. I believe that growth in photography is a lifelong process, and there’s always something new to learn and discover.To anyone who is just starting out in photography, my advice is simple: embrace the process, be patient with yourself, and never stop experimenting. Every photo you take is a step forward, and every mistake is an opportunity to learn.
Thank you for joining me on this reflection of my photography journey. If you have any questions, thoughts, or if you’d like to share your own experiences, feel free to leave a comment below. I’d love to hear your story!