In this insightful interview with Daniela Francella, a passionate photographer, she opens up about her journey, from childhood fascination with capturing moments to turning photography into a profession. Daniela shares her creative process, challenges, and advice for aspiring photographers eager to follow their passion.
Daniela, could you please introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Daniela Francella, and I am a passionate photographer with a deep connection to the art of capturing moments that transcend time. Through my lens, I explore the beauty and complexity of life, conveying stories, emotions, and perspectives in every frame. Photography is not just my profession; it is a way for me to express myself and engage with the world around me in meaningful ways.
Daniela, can you take me back to the moment when you first fell in love with photography? What sparked that passion?
My love for photography began at a very young age—around six years old—when I first held a camera in my hands. From that moment, I was captivated by the magic of freezing a moment in time, of capturing the essence of life. There was something inherently powerful about preserving fleeting emotions, expressions, and stories. It was more than just an interest—it was an undeniable passion, a deep desire to share what I saw with others through my lens.
You’ve mentioned that photography has been a part of you since childhood—what were some of your earliest memories with a camera?
One of my earliest memories was taking a landscape photograph with a simple film camera. I was in awe of how a single image could capture the vastness and stillness of the world around me. It wasn’t just about taking a picture—it was about understanding the beauty in every little detail of life, from the texture of a leaf to the quiet embrace of nature. That was my first realization that photography was not just a hobby, but a profound means of storytelling.
Was there a specific moment or event that made you decide to turn photography into a profession rather than just a hobby?
Yes, the turning point came three years ago when I decided to take my passion more seriously by enrolling in advanced and professional photography courses. The formal training allowed me to refine my skills, expand my knowledge, and immerse myself deeper into the art of photography. It was at that moment I realized that this was no longer just a hobby—it was a vocation, something I wanted to dedicate myself to fully. It wasn’t just about taking photos; it was about creating art that spoke to people on an emotional and intellectual level.
What was the biggest challenge you faced when starting your career, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge I faced was communicating my vision and perspective of photography to others. It’s one thing to have an artistic vision, but it’s another to make others see it the way you do. It took time, patience, and an unwavering belief in myself and my craft. I learned that passion, persistence, and the ability to stay true to my vision would eventually allow others to understand and connect with my work. Overcoming this challenge was an empowering journey of self-discovery and growth.
How would you describe your style of photography in your own words?
My style of photography is rooted in the beauty of natural, unposed moments. I aim for spontaneity, capturing emotions and expressions as they unfold naturally. I focus on authenticity and rawness, avoiding forced or artificial setups. It’s about creating a connection between the subject and the viewer, evoking genuine emotions and telling a story without embellishment or distraction. It’s simple, yet profound—capturing life as it truly is.
When you pick up your camera, what do you look for in a moment before deciding to capture it?
Before I even pick up my camera, I try to sense the emotion or story that is about to unfold. I look for moments that convey a deeper meaning—whether it’s a subtle expression, the way light interacts with a subject, or an intimate connection between two people. I want to see beyond the surface, to capture something that resonates on an emotional level. It’s not just about taking a picture; it’s about capturing a feeling, an essence that will evoke a response from anyone who views it.
Do you have a particular process or ritual before starting a new project, or is it all based on spontaneous inspiration?
For me, the creative process is largely driven by spontaneous inspiration. I trust my intuition to guide me in the direction of a project, and I let the energy of the moment shape the outcome. However, that doesn’t mean I don’t prepare—I always ensure that I am technically equipped, but I also leave room for flexibility and unexpected moments. I believe that true creativity comes from being open to the unknown, allowing the project to evolve organically rather than adhering to a rigid structure.
You’ve been featured in exhibitions and magazines—what do those milestones mean to you personally?
Being featured in exhibitions and magazines is an incredibly significant milestone in my career. It’s a recognition of my dedication and hard work, and it validates the unique perspective I bring to photography. More than just professional accomplishments, these milestones are deeply emotional for me. They represent the culmination of years of passion, growth, and perseverance. They remind me that my work is making an impact and connecting with others, which is the most fulfilling aspect of being an artist.
Is there a specific project or photo you’ve taken that holds deep personal significance?
One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on was a photoshoot addressing the issue of violence against women, featuring the model Giulia. This project holds a deep personal significance because it allowed me to use my photography as a vehicle for social change. The power of visual storytelling is immense, and I wanted to capture the strength, resilience, and humanity of women who have faced unimaginable challenges. It was a deeply emotional experience for me, and the final images were a reflection of both the pain and the hope that exists within this issue.
Right now, where do you see yourself and your photography career heading in the next few years?
In the next few years, I see myself continuing to evolve and grow as a photographer, reaching even greater milestones in my career. I hope to have the opportunity to collaborate with diverse, inspiring individuals and projects that push the boundaries of my creativity. I envision my work being featured on even larger platforms, allowing me to reach and inspire a broader audience. Ultimately, I want my photography to have a lasting impact, to not only document the world but to shape how people perceive and experience it.
What advice would you give to aspiring photographers who want to follow their passion but might be hesitant to take the leap?
My advice would be to always believe in yourself, even when the road ahead seems uncertain. The journey to becoming a photographer isn’t easy, but if you’re passionate and committed, it’s worth every challenge. Don’t be afraid to take risks—sometimes, the greatest rewards come from stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing the unknown. Trust your instincts, stay true to your vision, and don’t let fear hold you back. The world needs your unique perspective, so take the leap and let your passion guide you.
Daniela Francella’s journey in photography highlights the power of passion, patience, and authenticity. Her natural, spontaneous style captures emotions and stories, creating impactful visual narratives. With her unwavering belief in her vision, Daniela inspires aspiring photographers to take risks, trust their instincts, and follow their creative passions with confidence.
