Sara Camporesi

STREET CATEGORY WINNER

SARA CAMPORESI

A photographer passionate about art, for a long time she has combined this interest with the spontaneity of visual storytelling, conceived not only as a classic account of experiences but also as a combination of personal and creative shots that conveys the secret appeal of urban places and museums, revealed through images and words like a “photographer narrator”. She earned an IED Master’s degree in arts management, educational programs and digital communication for cultural institutions in Florence. For the last few years she has been involved in photographic exhibitions for other creatives and image education labs for adults and children. She is currently involved in promotional activities for public and private institutions, to enhance the artistic and cultural excellence of the territory.

The photograph was taken during a period when I was living in Florence while attending my Master’s degree. Walking through the city every day with my camera, I was naturally drawn to small, intimate scenes that reveal the quiet poetry of urban life. The vintage photo booth immediately caught my attention because of its nostalgic atmosphere and the way it created a small, private world within the public space. I waited for the right moment, when the scene felt balanced and meaningful, allowing the image to capture both the character of the place and the subtle human presence within it.

In street photography there are two diametrically opposed methods when we try to take photos: the “hunting” and the “fishing” approach. Running around to chase interesting subjects or finding the perfect setting and waiting for the right “fish” to swim by. I prefer waiting for the right moment so that the crowd does not disturb my scene.

Cities are like an open-air museum where the urban fabric is revealed little by little to our eyes. I usually move slowly, observing architecture, lines, patterns and geometry, trying to blend into the rhythm of the place rather than interrupt it. Often the best strategy is simply patience and discretion.

Patience is fundamental. My approach is based on waiting rather than chasing. I prefer to find a scene that already has strong visual elements and wait until the right human presence enters the frame. This allows the composition to remain balanced and the moment to appear naturally.

Street photography is by nature unpredictable. For this reason I rarely have a fixed plan in mind when I take photos. I prefer to be guided by the surroundings with spontaneity, allowing situations to unfold in front of me rather than forcing them.

Composition is essential for me. Even in dynamic environments I try to simplify the scene and focus on a specific detail, shadow, person or architectural element. The alternation of strong light and shadows also helps structure the image and transform complexity into visual balance.

Receiving this recognition is a great encouragement to continue my photographic journey. This is also the advice I always give to myself: to remain a curious explorer, with the humility to learn from others and the determination to keep pursuing my dreams.