WHO?
Hi everyone, I’m Lorenzo Catena from Rome, Italy. Initially trained as an architect, I discovered my passion for photography in 2016. I’ve always been passionate about cinema and have observed with interest the photography and sequences in the film industry. Photography became a way for me to merge my interest in architecture with a new, creative medium; it also helped me rediscover my own city and fuel my curiosity about ordinary life. Eventually, I got a little bored with photographing architecture and shifted my focus to the way people interacted and moved within spaces, which sparked my curiosity in this style of photography, allowing me to interpret and link scenes, behaviors, and atmospheres. Additionally, I teach photography at the Daylight School in Rome, sharing my knowledge and passion with young and aspiring street photographers.
WHAT?
My photography revolves around the co-existence of multiple elements within a frame, aiming to summarize them through a simple and clean image. Initially drawn to architectural subjects, I soon found myself fascinated by human figures and the spontaneous moments of everyday life. Within my projects, I explore diverse cultural contexts and personal interactions, blending street photography with other artistic explorations. I enjoy using different approaches and styles in my work, depending on the project. This can range from a rigorous and structured approach to a more documentary style, or even elements inspired by fashion aesthetics. Although my stylistic language may change, my work remains recognisable, especially in its composition. I don’t impose my style on the world but let what I see and experience influence my way of photography, which I find both challenging and fun.
WHERE?
Although based in Rome, I really like taking photos outside my hometown, exploring various places, both familiar and new. For me, every place holds potential and draws my curiosity to explore my feelings and those of others. In “Far Over Seas,” I explored the non-stereotypical aspects of Samoan culture, particularly in Apia, the capital, trying to showcase not the usual tropical paradise landscape but rather the daily life of the people in their urban environment, offering a unique perspective on this side of the world. In “Comitiva,” I delved into the dynamics of a group of young friends in southern Italy, documenting or portraying their relationships and personal growth over 3 summer seasons. My project and book “Mareterno,” developed together with Valeria Tofanelli, focuses on Ostia, an often-overlooked area of Rome; we walked the physical boundary of Rome and the Tyrrhenian Sea during different seasons, showcasing its often overlooked or unnoticed beauty and the Romans’ interactions and different ways of living by the sea.
WHEN?
Inspiration can strike at any moment. Often, it emerges during routine walks or unexpected encounters that reveal a scene’s potential. My process involves a combination of taking photos spontaneously and planned projects. During my commutes or photo walks alone or with my friends, I remain curious and ready to find interesting light, color, and human interaction, and I try to capture those fleeting, yet significant moments of our daily rituals. Sometimes, when I’m out taking photos, it can happen that nothing special occurs or it’s just one of those days when I’m not so reactive. In those situations, I don’t shy away from provoking interesting photography opportunities. I try to enter places, engage with people, talk, and have fun, all while bringing home some photos I’m proud of, as well as some new experiences.
WHY?
I always work in the area of creating images, whether for architectural projects or graphic design. But with photography, for me, it is a means of creating an emotional connection with the viewer and
interpreting real life in a personal way. I like the chance of transforming everyday scenes into narratives that go beyond mere objective representation. Through my approach to photography and street photography, I have fun, and it is a reason for me to experience the world and to eventually create something that is thought-provoking and open to interpretation, or just worth witnessing and watching or being of inspiration to someone. In my photo projects, I seek to provide deeper insights into cultural and social dynamics, hoping to spark curiosity and some kind of emotion on interesting subjects.
