We recently connected with Roberta Montagnini and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Roberta thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
I’ve always had a natural inclination towards creativity. From my earliest memories, art has been an integral part of my life. Growing up in a modest family, I learned to be resourceful and creative in order to bring my visions to life. Drawing became an escape for me, a way to paint a more beautiful world where everything felt perfect. It was during these moments that I honed my imagination and learned to create with intention.
As I embarked on my photography journey, I discovered that inspiration could be found everywhere. When I travel, I find joy in capturing the intricate details of textures, doors, windows, and patterns. These images become a treasure trove of inspiration for my photography. It’s not uncommon for me to create everything you see in my images, from the garments to the headpieces. I revel in the process of crafting the props that bring my visions to life.
Learning has always been an organic process for me. Since childhood, my imagination has led me to create countless imaginary worlds in my mind. I’ve inherited a curious nature from my mother, always approaching things with a creative perspective. I deconstruct and analyze everything, seeking to understand the lighting, the materials, and the intricate details. My creative well draws inspiration from various sources, whether it’s a captivating song that transports me or the masterpieces of painters from the renaissance, neoclassical, and pre-raphaelite eras. Artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, Rubens, Bouguereau, and Waterhouse have profoundly influenced my artistic vision just like contemporary photographers such as Lillian Liu, Bella Kotak, Lola Melani, and Gemmy Woud-Binnendijk continue to inspire me.
For me, curiosity and creativity are essential for artistic development and growth. Exploring the works of photographers I admire has been instrumental in accelerating my learning process. Once I became acquainted with their artistry, I wasted no time in pursuing my own path. The idea of creating images inspired by centuries-old paintings hadn’t crossed my mind until then. Living in Europe was a remarkable experience as well, surrounded by well-preserved history and a cultural richness that fueled my artistic endeavors.
When it comes to photography, I firmly believe that technical expertise is just one aspect. Operating a camera and lights are tools that help me convey my ideas and vision. You don’t have to be a tech wizard to be a photographer or an artist. What truly matters is a profound passion for art and the act of creation. It’s like becoming a visual storyteller, using art to express what words may fail to convey.
Of course, my journey has not been without obstacles. Fear of failure and a lack of confidence have often been my companions along the way. Even now, I’m not 100% confident, nor do I feel that I have achieved financial success. However, I am actively working on overcoming these challenges. Acknowledging our fears and limitations is an essential part of personal growth as human and an artist.
Financial constraints have also posed challenges in acquiring the necessary equipment and resources. When I first embarked on my photography journey, I faced limitations due to a lack of financial means. However, I was fortunate enough to borrow a DSLR camera from my best friend, which allowed me to start exploring the world of photography. I embraced the opportunity and made the most of the equipment I had.
But during those initial years, my focus shifted towards studying Graphic and Web Design, and photography took a back seat. It wasn’t until 2017 that I experienced a significant turning point. It was during this time that I had the privilege of encountering Sue Bryce and her education platform. This encounter served as a catalyst, reigniting my passion for photography and reminding me of the potential for a fulfilling career in this field.
Reconnecting with photography brought a sense of clarity and purpose. It reminded me that art and creativity had always been at the core of my being. I realized that pursuing photography allowed me to combine my love for visual storytelling with my innate curiosity and passion for art. Through my art, I aspire to evoke emotions, capture beauty, and tell stories that transcend words. Photography has become the language through which I express my vision, influenced by the great masters of the past and inspired by the world around me. I strive to create a visual narrative that speaks to the hearts of viewers, inviting them into a world where imagination knows no bounds.
I’m aware that the road to artistic fulfillment is not always straightforward, but I am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way. I embrace the ongoing process of learning, growing, and refining my craft. While I continue to work on my confidence I am committed to staying true to my artistic vision and continuing to create art that resonates with others. Each step of this journey brings me closer to my goals and allows me to explore the limitless possibilities within photography.
Through perseverance and a deep-rooted desire to create meaningful art, I am working towards overcoming any obstacles that stand in my way. I am determined to evolve as an artist, refine my technical skills, and continue to explore new avenues for artistic expression. This journey has taught me the importance of resilience, self-belief, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s passion. It has shown me that even in the face of challenges, it is possible to carve out a path that aligns with one’s creative aspirations.
Roberta, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
My name is Roberta Montagnini, I’m a italo-brazilian photographer and I would love to take you on a journey into the captivating world of photography. In 2017, I made a life-changing decision to leave my job in web design and embark on an exciting new adventure as a photographer. Living between Germany and the UK at the time, I saw this as the perfect opportunity to pursue my passion and become my own boss.
With a heart full of determination and a camera in hand, I delved into the realm of photography, eager to learn and grow in this captivating craft.Through my lens, I capture the essence of individuals and create stunning portraits that tell unique stories. My photography services encompass a wide range of genres, including fine art, boudoir, maternity, family, couples, personal branding, headshots, and fashion. Each session is a chance for me to bring out the beauty, personality, and emotions of my subjects, resulting in timeless and captivating images.
One of the key aspects that sets me apart from others is my unwavering commitment to creating not just photographs, but works of art. Drawing inspiration from various sources, including the Renaissance, neoclassical, and pre-Raphaelite eras, as well as contemporary photographers, I infuse my images with a sense of artistic expression. I believe that photography is more than just capturing moments; it’s about evoking emotions, telling stories, and creating visual poetry.
I take great pride in the ability to connect with my clients on a personal level, allowing them to feel comfortable and at ease during our sessions. Building a trusting and collaborative relationship is essential to capturing authentic and meaningful portraits. I strive to understand their unique vision and bring it to life through my creative approach, ensuring that each client receives a tailored and memorable experience.
In addition to my photography services, I also share my knowledge and expertise through Youtube (youtube.com/c/RobertaMontagnini) and my upcoming educational platform Portrait Edu (PortraitEdu.com). I am passionate about empowering fellow photographers and enthusiasts, guiding them on their creative journeys and helping them unlock their full potential.
Another I’m particularly proud of, and that’s my unwavering dedication to offering the best products to my clients. I understand how crucial it is to preserve your precious memories for generations to come. That’s why I go above and beyond, providing luxurious products that not only showcase the beauty of your portraits but also ensure their longevity and protection. The Black Label collection is the top tier collection I offer, it is meticulously handcrafted in Italy by the world’s best artisans. This exquisite product will elevate the display and preservation of your cherished prints, guaranteeing they stand the test of time for many generations.
For people looking to hire me as their photographer, I want to let you know that my brand is built on a foundation of passion, creativity, and a commitment to excellence. I am dedicated to delivering exceptional photography experiences and images that are not just beautiful, but also evoke a sense of wonder while showing your personality. With me, you can expect a personalized approach, attention to detail, and a collaborative process to create images that speak to you.
I take immense pride in connecting with my clients on a personal level, building trust, and collaborating to capture authentic and meaningful portraits. Your vision is incredibly important to me, and I’m dedicated to bringing it to life through my creative approach. My goal is to provide a tailored and unforgettable experience where you feel comfortable, valued, and empowered throughout the entire process.
You can find me on various social networks, including Instagram (instagram.com/rmontagnini), TikTok (tiktok.com/@rmontagnini), and Facebook (facebook.com/rmontagniniphoto). For more information and to view my portfolio, visit my website at rmontagnini.com. Don’t hesitate to get in touch and book your unforgettable photoshoot. Let’s capture beautiful moments together and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
When it comes to books, I must admit that I’m not an avid reader. However, there are a few titles that have truly captivated my attention and left a lasting impression. One of my favorites is “The 5 Second Rule” by Mel Robbins, a book that offers a simple yet powerful technique for overcoming hesitation and taking action in various aspects of life.
Another book that resonated with me is “Go for No! Yes is the Destination. No is how You Get There!” by Andrea Waltz and Richard Fenton. This unconventional guide challenges the fear of rejection and encourages a mindset shift that can lead to remarkable personal and professional growth.
In addition, “She Sells” by Megan di Piero caught my interest. This book delves into the art of selling and offers valuable insights and strategies for anyone involved in sales or seeking to enhance their persuasion skills.
“Get Rich, Lucky Bitch!” by Denise Duffield-Thomas is another book that caught my attention. It’s a refreshing take on money mindset and abundance, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help shift our relationship with wealth and success.
“Becoming” by Michelle Obama is a memoir that touched my heart. It’s a captivating journey that chronicles the life of an extraordinary woman who rose above challenges and became an inspiration to many.
While my reading list may be modest, these books have made a significant impact on me, proving that engaging and thought-provoking literature can truly enrich our lives.
I also love the video available on Youtube by Simon Sinek https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qp0HIF3SfI4
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the ability to touch lives through my art, creating meaningful images that become part of people’s legacies. One day, these images will be all that remains to tell a story, and they will outlive many generations, carrying the essence of cherished memories. It brings me immense joy to pursue my passion and make a living doing what truly fills my heart with happiness.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rmontagnini.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/rmontagnini
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/rmontagniniphoto
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rmontagnini
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/rmontagnini
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/c/robertamontagnini
- Other: tiktok.com/@rmontagnini upcoming education platform PortraitEdu.com