Interview with photographer Andrea Materni

Today we are featuring an interview with one of our photographers, Andrea Materni. Originally from Marsciano, in the province of Perugia, he discovered his passion for photography at just 8 years old. A passion that, as is often the case, has never faded since. He joined Pixtury right from the start with the aim of selling his photos online, and he has won several photo contests. Below is the text of the interview, accompanied by some of his photos, which you can buy as posters and prints from his personal Gallery.

Hello, Andrea. Thank you for accepting our invitation to this interview. To start getting to know you, could you tell us something about yourself?

Yes, hello. I was born on 19 May 1974 in Marsciano, and a few months ago I joined the so-called “over-forties club”. I have a wife who is truly one of a kind, with whom I have spent ten wonderful years of marriage, and a little girl called Gaia (my Gaia), who is 3 years old and full of life, joy and cheer. For anyone who doesn’t know it yet, being a parent really is a unique feeling!

What does photography mean to you?

Photography is what I would call “the perfect lover”.

How would you rate yourself as a photographer?

I consider myself just an amateur photographer, although a truly passionate one. Unfortunately, I realise that equipment really is essential for taking shots of a certain standard.

How did you first discover photography?

In 1982 I held my first camera, a compact Focus, and I have never stopped since. Today I use a Canon EOS 350D and a Nikon D3100 for my shots.

What do you like most about the world of photography?

What I like most about this world is the technology, which is constantly evolving. On the other hand, I can’t stand the rudeness I have encountered in some people and the injustices I have often witnessed.

Is there a piece of work you consider particularly meaningful?

For some time now I have been working on a project to create a book combining poems and photos, but I haven’t managed to finish it yet.

How did you come to Pixtury, and how do you find our photography community?

I came across Pixtury on the internet by chance, while searching on a photo contest website. What I appreciate most about Pixtury is putting myself to the test in the contests: exchanging views with other photographers is what helps me keep going and believe in my work, so I can improve and keep taking on new challenges.

Where would you like to exhibit your best shot?

My dream is to see one of my shots exhibited in a major gallery.

What are your favourite subjects and lighting conditions?

Today my favourite subject is definitely my Gaia, but in the past I preferred the sea, sunsets and landscapes. As for lighting, I prefer shooting in natural light.

What is your secret for taking a great photo?

In my view, the most important thing is always to try to seize the moment and to be in the right place at the right time.

Have you ever won any photo contests?

Yes, I have won several photo contests on Pixtury: “Nuvole” with my photo “La quiete dopo la tempesta”, “Inverno” with “Spiragli di luce” and “Estate” with “Tra il mare e la roccia di tropea”. I have won other contests too, but I can’t remember exactly on which sites.

Who do you consider the greatest photographer of all time?

Tiziano Terzani.

What do you think of the selfie craze? Just between us... have you ever taken one?

I have to admit that yes, I have taken a few too. Still, I find it much more fun to take a photo of someone who is taking one.

Who will you show this interview to first?

My friends and my wife.

Thank you for your time, Andrea, and congratulations again on your photos!

If you would like to discover more of Andrea’s photos, visit his photo Gallery on Pixtury, where you can buy pictures, posters and prints of all his shots. If you would like to join our community, sign up now: you can sell your photos, paintings, drawings and digital artworks online.