Tell us something about yourself

I’m Stefano, 39, from Verona in Italy. I abandoned the studies in physics when I was 21 to practice photography, and never looked back.

How and when did you get into photography?

I have memories of myself as a child tormenting my father, asking if I could take pictures with his camera, an Olympus OM10 that doesn’t work anymore, but I still keep it.

What does photography mean to you?

Taking pictures is my way to know more of the world.

Looking at the pictures I’ve taken  is my way to know more about me.

 

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

I think elegance is a key element in my work. In fact my pictures tend on the gentle, polite, classic side more often than not. And never too polished, I don’t want my personal work to look like “just another ordinary day in the studio”, which it just isn’t.

 

Where do you get inspiration from?

Mostly from the great photographers of the past and the people I meet, but many sources, like novels, biographies, fashion, films, all concur in a way or another.

Think you in advance what you want in the picture?

Almost every time. Being used to plan everything for my clients, when it comes to my projects, I still want to set at least a track, and only then leave room for improvisation.

 

Studio, on location or both?

On location. If needed, I can replicate a studio in almost every place I happen to find myself. And I like travelling.

 

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

Professional passionate. Meaning that photographer, to me, is my job, a role. Instead passionate tells at least a little about how I am.

 

What has been your most memorable session and why?

By far, a portrait session with Benedetta, last year. Just headshots, lighting as simple as it gets, but she was so sincere, so rich and subtle in expressing herself that I’m still astonished. Having tens of pictures to refine from that session, still have many waiting in queue. Never seen anything like that before, or after.

 

What has been the biggest source of inspiration in your work?

It changes with the passing of time. Restricting to the recent past, I’d say Sue Bryce’s lighting.

 

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

I loved, and still occasionally use, Nikon for film. Use Canon for digital. And Polaroid.

Lens, I don’t know. I often use the 24-70mm f/2.8.

 

What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?

Knowing “how to” is not enough. You need your own “why”, too.

It’s when “how” and “why” work together that the fun begins. And then, be ready to work hard!

 

What do you think of our new magazine?

As soon as I discovered it, I wanted to read all the issues I missed. It’s different, well curated, I must say Modellen Land comes in like a breath of fresh air. Keep up the good job!

 

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