What do you do in your life (work and fun)?

I’m particularly fortunate because my work aligns with my passion, so being a photographer is ideally the answer to both questions. Photography allows me to explore, create, and connect with the stories that inspire me. For fun, it’s all about enjoying my family and friends as much as I can.

What made you leave Italy and chose Los Angeles?

Italy gave me roots, but Los Angeles offered wings. After sending my graphic design portfolio to an entertainment agency based in Santa Monica, I was offered an internship as an Art Director. The city’s creative energy, cultural diversity, and absurdly dramatic light were irresistible, so I built my way to live here. Los Angeles is a place where contradictions thrive: it’s beautiful, messy, inspiring, and strange—all qualities that fuel my work.

Please share your best memory in the City.

Probably the day I rented my small apartment in Santa Monica. I’ve always loved new beginnings, when everything looks fantastic and full of hope. I was immediately in love with the apartment—it had a big balcony overlooking a tree, almost like a treehouse, and it felt like the perfect fit for my personality. In that moment, I could really sense that I was starting a new chapter in the right place.

What made you choose this specific location and outfit?

The location is obviously an alley in Santa Monica. Over the past few years, I’ve been drawn to the uniform, often deserted, almost monotonous residential neighborhoods of Santa Monica, especially the back alleys, which we don’t have in Europe. I discovered that these spaces are filled with little clues, messages, and objects that the people who live there feel the urge to expose, revealing something about their personality. This fascination led to a collection of images that, over time, earned several awards from important organizations, profoundly changing my life as a photographer. About a month ago, I published this work as a small book through XYZ Books. As for my outfit today, it holds a special meaning for me. Every piece I am wearing is by Righello, a wearable project created by my mother, Alda. Each item is handmade, with the help of my grandmother Isa. My accessories also carry stories- this hat, for instance, was purchased in Oaxaca, the first city I visited in Mexico. That place continues to inspire me every time I go. And of course, I have my trusty Mamiya RZ67 with me. Beyond the incredible images it produces, I’m in love with the design of the camera itself.

Your thoughts about this project, ITALIANY.US

It’s very interesting to see how many Italians are abroad and to read each story about what led them to leave Italy. It’s true that our country doesn’t have much to offer at the moment, but I believe that Italians are, in any case, a people of explorers—after all, America was discovered by us. I hope this project becomes a book one day.

How would you describe being an ambassador of the Italian style/culture abroad?

I don’t necessarily see myself as an ambassador of Italian style and culture abroad. My photography style is strongly influenced by America, which has made it challenging to have my work fully embraced in Italy. That said, I believe Italians excel as ambassadors of style through food, music, and design. As for culture, most of my close friends here are Italian, and my lifestyle remains deeply rooted in Italian traditions. After almost 10 years in the U.S., I’ve come to appreciate the beauty of cultural differences rather than focusing on blending in. In today’s globalized world, it’s inspiring to see how distinct cultures can coexist, complement, and enrich one another. While there are undeniable differences between Italian and American ways of life, I see them as opportunities to learn and celebrate rather than barriers to understanding.