1. Where it all started – what or who inspired me to pick up a camera
My journey into photography started with a deep love for the outdoors. Growing up in Italy, I was surrounded by history and landscapes, but it was moving to Aotearoa that truly sparked my passion. The dramatic scenery here, the moody light, and the untamed wilderness pushed me to start capturing the world around me. Initially, I was just documenting my adventures, but soon I realized that photography could tell deeper stories—ones about people, culture, and emotion.
2. My vibe – how I describe my style
I’d say my style is a blend of storytelling and bold, immersive compositions. I love capturing powerful moments that make you feel like you're part of the scene—whether it’s a rugged landscape, a quiet human moment, or a fleeting interaction in the wild. Natural light plays a big role in my work, and I often gravitate toward deep contrasts and rich textures.
3. Dream camera, unlimited budget?
Honestly, I’m pretty happy with my current gear, but if money were no object, I’d love aLeica M11 for street and documentary work—there’s something about the craftsmanship and simplicity that’s so appealing. For landscapes and wildlife, a Nikon Z9 with some of Nikon’s best glass would be a dream setup.
4. A photographer who inspires me
My initial inspiration came from David Yarrow’s photos of the wild animals of the savannah—his powerful, high-contrast black-and-white imagery immediately caught my eye. For my"Patch" project on NZ gangs, I drew inspiration from Bruce Davidson’s 1959 documentary series Brooklyn Gang. At just 25, he embedded himself within a teenage gang in Brooklyn, capturing the spirit of post-war youth culture in New York. By spending time with them, he uncovered layers beyond the usual stereotypes—something I aimed to do with my own project.
5. Mentors or biggest encouragement
The community is certainly important, but a few people have been crucial in my growth as a photographer. @amadeusnzed was the first person who took me out at night for astrophotography and taught me the basics. @matt.j.bondi and @graeme.carlisle have also been big influences and they are my go-to for peer reviews.. Recently, while working on my macro photography project Aotearoa Insects, I had the privilege of meeting Bryce McQuillan—a self-taught wildlife photographer and macro expert, known for his work in A Photographic Guide to New Zealand Spiders. He has been mentoring me, helping refine my skills in insect photography.
6. Mac or PC + favorite software?
A long-standing PC user: "I got the flow, I go with the flow."For post-pro editing, Adobe Lightroom is my platform, and I use DaVinci Resolve for video work.
7. My kit + must-have accessory
My go-to kit is a combo of Fujifilm X-T3 and X-T30 II. I simply love these two cameras and Ipaire them with an array of manual focus lenses. I love the tactile experience of manual glass—it slows me down and makes me more intentional with composition. However, I explore various aspects of photography, so I also have different lenses depending on the occasion. Recently, I purchased a used Nikon Z6 (mk1) to see what the full-frame hype is all about… not fully sold yet!
8. A recent image I’m proud of
My impromptu photo of Jeffrey, the homeless man asking for donations at a roundabout in Hastings, unexpectedly went viral. But more importantly, it opened the door to a deeper story—one about Jeffrey himself and his street community, people often unseen or ignored. It became more than a single image; it became a conversation.
9. Highlights of my Mongrel Mob & city projects
The biggest highlight has been connecting with people beyond the lens. The Mongrel Mob project was an opportunity to challenge stereotypes and show raw, human moments that often go unseen. In my city work, I love capturing the contrasts—grit and beauty, isolation and connection, the fast-paced life and the quiet pauses in between.
What’s next?
Right now, I’m diving deep into macro photography, exploring the fascinating insects of Aotearoa and their role in the ecosystem. But with astrophotography season approaching, I’ll also be spending more nights under the stars, capturing the vastness of the universe. Beyond that, I want to expand my storytelling—perhaps a deeper dive into NZ’s outdoor culture, documenting people’s connection to the land.
