Interview: Photographer Rosa Mozzillo (Italy)

Modellenland
29 jul
3 minuten om te lezen

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

I am a teacher, a reader, a photographer, a good friend, and a lover of life and beauty. For years, I have used photography to capture the beauty around me, but I eventually shifted my focus to portraits. I believe the greatest show is in a person’s gaze, in the emotions of someone who stands before us with a story to tell. Their story. That’s my true calling: to take beautiful photos, of course, but ones that convey something, that tell a story, a moment, or an intimacy.

How and when did you get into photography?

I became passionate about photography several years ago, with the advent of the first cell phones with cameras. At that time, I enjoyed capturing landscapes, and I was pleased with the shots I took. Eventually, I realized I wanted to focus on portraits because I believe the most beautiful journey is the one we take within a person. Today, I continue to study and work on emotional portraiture to constantly improve my craft.

What does photography mean to you?

For me, photography is beauty, soul, intensity, and light. When I first read the phrase “drawing with light,” I realized it was not just a figure of speech. Light can completely transform a photograph. This is especially true in portraits, where it seems to sculpt the human face. I prefer natural light because I believe photography should be spontaneous. I want the people in front of my camera to feel comfortable and free to express themselves.

How would you describe your photography style?

I wouldn’t call myself a professional photographer yet, so forgive me if this sounds obvious, but my style is natural and spontaneous. I invite people to tell their stories, and I capture photos while they do. A perfectly posed photo, no matter how technically flawless, will never surpass the beauty of a genuine, spontaneous smile. I love colors, but black and white photography is timeless.

Where do you get your inspiration?

From the greatest photographers who have a story to tell. I admire Diane Arbus, Steve McCurry, Helmut Newton, Annie Leibovitz, Dorothea Lange and many others, some of whom are famous in the Italian national scene, such as Andrea Schallschmidt (Veneto) and Mauro

Grosso (Campania), my teachers. Anyone who can capture even a fragment of a soul in a glance is an inspiration to me.

Do you plan your shots in advance?

Yes. When I decide to photograph someone, I already have a vision of what I want to capture. The image exists in my mind—right down to how they are dressed or how their hair is styled. I imagine their expressions, whether they are laughing or lost in thought. That’s why I like to take time before every session to get to know the person and connect with them on an emotional level.

Do you prefer shooting in a studio or on location?

As I mentioned, I love shooting outdoors. While the outdoor environment is less predictable and harder to control, it often offers wonderful surprises. Since I value spontaneity, I enjoy embracing the unexpected.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a professional?

Is there a middle ground?

What has been your most memorable session so far?

So far, my favorite sessions have been with ordinary people. Photographing a professional model is a valuable experience because they can deliver exactly what you envision, and you can learn a lot. But when you photograph someone who is not a model, and you manage to bring out the emotions you had already imagined, it’s an incredible and deeply rewarding experience.

Nikon or Canon? What’s your favorite lens?

I started with Nikon, but it didn’t fully satisfy me. Today, I use a Sony ILCE-6400 with various lenses that I’m gradually adding to my collection. It makes me very happy! However, my dream camera is still a Leica.

What advice would you give to a new photographer starting their own business?

Study and challenge yourself. Most importantly, don’t get discouraged. Be patient—photography requires patience! Photography is an art, and like any art, there’s no final destination. You’ll always be growing, and every day brings an opportunity to learn something new.

What do you think of our new magazine?

I think art, in all its forms, is a beautiful but challenging world to navigate. A magazine that provides visibility to everyone, without discrimination and for free, is a wonderful initiative. I am deeply grateful to those who run this magazine for giving me this opportunity. I am truly honored. Thank you.

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