Interview with Federica Nardese on Photography Trends

Website:
https://www.federicanardese.com/

Country: Italy

Photography Genres: Creative, Fine Art and Portrait

Fave Camera Brand: Nikon

Socials:
Instagram | LinkedIn

What’s in your camera bag?

• Nikon D750
• Nikon D600 (backup)
• Nikkor AF 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5 D
• Nikkor 50 mm f/1.8 D
• Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD
• Sigma 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM
• Gobe Pro-filter NDX 2-400 77mm
• Nikon Flash SB-900 + Nikon Flash SB-600
• 2x Studio Strobe Godox DP600III

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024?

There are several specific equipment and gear innovations that I believe will make a profound impact in 2024. Still, as a portrait photographer and Nikon user for many years, one that interests me much is the new Nikon Z8, as it excels in various aspects, including enhanced low-light performance.

This feature unlocks new creative possibilities for photographers, allowing them to capture stunning images with greater clarity and detail. Its accurate autofocus system + high-speed burst shooting capabilities enable effortless capturing of fast-paced action moments.

These advancements in Nikon Z8, combined with attention to photographers’ diverse needs, make it a game-changer in the industry.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear?

I typically stay up to date with the latest news on new gear through various sources. I follow photography blogs, websites, and forums that provide in-depth reviews, industry insights, and announcements about upcoming releases.

Additionally, I rely on social media platforms, YouTube in particular, where photographers and influencers share their experiences and opinions on the latest equipment. When it comes to purchasing a new gear, I usually have a few go-to options.

I prefer to buy from reputable camera stores both online and in person. In Milan, we have a great shop called “New Old Camera”, which is a go-to option for local photographers and enthusiasts alike.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024?

In 2024, I think that photography has a crucial role in nurturing a transformative aesthetic. As photographers, we bear a significant social responsibility to provide fresh reference points for engagement. With its ability to capture and convey diverse perspectives and narratives, photography possesses the power to actively engage viewers, prompting reflection and empathy and encouraging a new form of participatory, open-minded approach to education.

We need to spark dialogue, confront stereotypes, and inspire social change. By embracing this responsibility, photographers can create a more participative, compassionate, and culturally enriched society in 2024 and beyond.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024?

I foresee several emerging photography trends gaining popularity. There is a growing desire to revisit film photography, which, although niche, holds significant appeal in the “AI era”.

Additionally, implementing AI technologies in the creative process (3D and such) will likely lead to fully immersive experiences from the comfort of our homes. The market for mirrorless cameras is set to thrive while DSLRs gradually become obsolete. Personally, as a portrait photographer, I’m pleased to witness a return to less retouched portraits, embracing our natural image and true selves, free from excessive editing or artificial enhancements.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why?

My mentor since 2016 has been Sue Bryce, and she is the mentor I would always want in my photography journey due to her ability to make portraiture something magical and timeless.

In 2024, if I could add another mentor, it would be Jeremy Cowart because he is more than just a photographer. He is an artist who deeply loves both the art and the people he photographs, and he has an outstanding creative ability to create something beyond the image itself.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024?

It is very difficult to give a definitive answer. We are still trying to understand what is happening. I believe that some tasks will be replaced by AI, especially in terms of ease of retouching and post-production. Perhaps even the fashion industry will begin to rely on virtual photoshoots, saving on often extensive teams.

I started integrating AI into my images a few months ago, creating creative composites that combine my portraits with AI-generated elements, resulting in something unique and still my own. We need, and I hope, we’ll keep on staying human, still feeling with our guts and hearts to make real art.

What is your favorite photography-related book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why?

A theoretical reference to me is “Camera Lucida” by Roland Barthes, as it explores the significance of photographs, exploring their evocative power, the relationship between photography and death, and the emotional connection forged through the “punctum” effect, shaping critical discourse on the subject.

As for artistic influences, I enjoy immersing myself in any photography book featuring the work of great contemporary masters, regardless of the genre. I also appreciate good and thick art catalogues and books on painting, spanning from the masters of the 15th century until now, as they allow me to observe the dynamics of light and colour to achieve painterly effects in my images.

What is your go-to method for overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024?

In this period, I am turning into a more “tactile” approach. I am exploring printing my portraits on simple paper to create art collages using newspaper clippings, decorative elements, peinture, etc. This exploration in my scrapbook helps me look beyond the mere “photographic performance” as I exercise intuition and craftsmanship by combining various artistic disciplines with my photography.

Also, exploring self-portraiture has the same healing effect on me since I’ve been practising self-portraits since forever, and it allows me to be myself with no pressure on the outcome. Having some good friends to ask for modelling for me also helps when I’m in need of joyful practising new ideas.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be?

It would be never to stop experimenting. Photography is a journey of constant growth and exploration. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Take the time to understand the technical aspects of your camera, study composition techniques, and learn from the work of the great master photographers and painters.

But most importantly, don’t be afraid to push your boundaries, try new perspectives, and embrace your unique vision no matter what others are saying. And if you wanna go pro, you can make a living from photography or selling your prints. Just treat it like any other business, work on your positioning and personal branding, find your unique value, and make sure to deliver at your best. It will work.

Can you share a specific tool, technology, or software that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer?

Honestly, I’m a pretty “basic” photographer. I’ve been using Photoshop and Lightroom since early 2010, and those still work smoothly for me.

I’ve been using Midjourney AI since mid-2022, and I’m integrating Midjourney AI generations into my portraits from time to time, but always working with composites in Photoshop to get what I envision.

This mix of “real” portraiture and AI Art can be fun.

NFT and photography? Any thoughts?

This surely has been a topic of interest and debate in the industry, but I’m not very into it. I have an artist friend who sells some NFTs and told me that this technology has opened up opportunities for him to monetize his work directly, bypassing traditional gatekeepers such as photography galleries. What may concern me and keep me from learning more about NFTs is that the market for NFTs has seen fluctuations and speculation, which may impact the perception of its long-term value.

It’s always about the idea. The niche will create itself somehow.

Federica Nardese

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024?

My biggest strength as a photographer is being a Portrait Photographer. I worked hard to capture people naturally and spontaneously, even in posing, and to establish a strong connection with my subjects on set. I often refrain from excessive post-processing because I want people to recognize themselves in a philosophical “come as you are” approach. This also comes from me, being a certified Art Counsellor.

On the other hand, I’m feeling a bit limited by my current photography equipment, which I aspire to upgrade soon.

In 2024, I’d also like to immerse myself more in the midst of people, engaging in participatory projects outside my studio walls.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions?

One of the biggest challenges is standing out in a saturated market that is becoming tougher because of AI tech. But this is a long debated topic. In my opinion, the solution lies in personal projects. While anyone can take a good portrait, only a few can give it meaning and integrate it into a larger, truly “artistic” project.

Personal projects give photographers the opportunity to explore their own narratives, themes, or social issues, establishing a cohesive body of work that sets them apart from the competition. I believe this ability to implement personal branding and positioning will increasingly make a difference for the better for those doing it.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024?

I think you can see this from two different angles:

1. You can do market research and choose a niche based on “where the money is” and go for it.

2. You can choose a niche based on your ability, skills, desire and love for the craft. The output depends on your values.

On this topic, I deeply felt these words from Jeremy Cowart, the artist photographer I mentioned before here: “I don’t set goals or plan ahead, and money never motivates me. It’s always about the idea, always has been, and always will be.”

To me, in a saturated market, it’s always about the idea. The niche will create itself somehow.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography?

I am constantly inspired by the power of photography to capture meaningful moments and evoke emotions. Thus, I strive to create a bridge between the external world and the internal realms of the human experience. The ability to connect with people, understand their stories, and translate them into visual narratives is what fuels my passion for portrait photography.

Through my work, I hope to contribute to a more empathetic and compassionate society. By capturing the essence of individuals and exploring diverse perspectives, I aim to challenge stereotypes, foster dialogue, and inspire positive change. I aspire to create images that evoke genuine emotions, connecting viewers with the stories and emotions captured within each frame.

Ultimately, my goal is to leave a lasting impact on those who view my photographs, to make them pause, reflect, and see the beauty, vulnerability, and strength in themselves and others. Through my camera lens, I strive to create a visual tapestry that celebrates diversity, promotes understanding, and reminds us of our shared humanity.

Do you think we missed an important question? Feel free to both formulate and answer that question here! Any final thoughts? Feel free to add them below.

One main question I often ask myself as a photography business owner is: how do I find a balance between staying true to my artistic vision and meeting my client’s expectations or the demands of the industry in 2024?

Finding the balance between artistic vision and external expectations is indeed a crucial aspect of any photographer’s journey in 2024. It requires navigating the fine line between creative integrity and fulfilling client needs. I think open communication with clients is essential to achieve this balance. By thoroughly understanding their goals, expectations, and desired outcomes, it becomes possible to align artistic vision with client requirements. IPS is also an essential strategy.

As in the previous answer, as artists, we need to stay true to our artistic voice. I manage to do that by incorporating personal touches, unique perspectives, and signature elements into the work to create the distinct style that hopefully sets me apart in the industry.