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 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.
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.
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 not that much into the rules, I just wanted to take snapshots, 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.
As my passion grew, I realized I wanted to improve my skills. 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 whole year. I learned the technical aspects of photography and discovered the importance of storytelling. 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 moment in my journey.
Over time, my photography evolved, and I tried 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.
Finding my voice as a photographer was a journey in itself. It involved a lot of trial and error, countless 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.
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.
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 travel, lifestyle and with foreign clients, my business was heavily impacted by the travel restrictions. 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, exploring different niches. Although it was a difficult period, it taught me the importance of flexibility, innovation, and the power of community support.
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 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 many 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.
Looking back, I’m grateful for every step of this journey – the good, the mistakes, the moments of doubt, and the breakthroughs. Photography has enriched my life in countless ways.
As I continue this journey, I’m excited to explore new projects and challenges. 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 and your thoughts!
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