Following his passion for the open road, self-professed ‘nomadic photographer’ Enrico Costantini captures the world with his camera whilst forging meaningful connections with those he meets on his travels.
With an undeniably enviable existence that sees him traversing one beautiful destination to the next in search of inspiration, the images produced by Venetian photographer and former interior designer combine aesthetic sensibility with adventurous soul. Here, Costantini shares thoughts on his creative philosophy, signature style, and unique approach to immortalising people and place.
Tell us about the first camera you fell in love with?
My love affair with photography was ignited at a young age, with a vintage Polaroid from the 1990s. I recall wandering around my school, boldly approaching strangers and capturing their essence in an instant. It was like wielding a magic wand that froze moments in time.
What makes a destination beautiful to you?
I am truly captivated by a destination when it allows me to immerse myself in the local culture; especially in remote, untouched corners of the world. The most beautiful hotels, in my opinion, are the ones with soul, often family-owned or independent gems. You can feel the owner’s touch in every nook, where each detail is a carefully crafted piece of a larger narrative.
How would you describe your photographic aesthetic?
My photographic style can be summed up as eclectic, evocative, and a symphony of contrasts.
Where do you find creative inspiration?
The global kaleidoscope of cultures and traditions never ceases to inspire and amaze me. Whether it’s exploring dramatic natural landscapes, or documenting the human stories that unfold in these places, I find my muse in the tapestry of our world. Light and shadows are my companions, weaving compelling stories in my photographs. I draw inspiration from the intricate details of textures and patterns, which lead to both minimalist and maximalist expressions in my work.
Additionally, as a former interior designer, my heart beats faster when I encounter impactful design and architecture. For example, Brutalist structures and mid-century masterpieces hold a special place in my creative heart.
Your most memorable travel moment?
A trip to Bagan, Myanmar taught me an unforgettable lesson about truly connecting with the people we meet in life. Whilst in a village there, I made a habit of taking Polaroid photos of locals and gifting them with copies.
For instance, I took photos of a lady named Sanu, who lived in a simple cabana there — one image of her and her little boy, which I gave to her, and another featuring both them and me. After a day of exploring other villages across the river, I returned to find Sanu waiting for me on the shore, holding the Polaroid we had taken together. She asked to exchange the Polaroids, because what she really wanted was the one that included me. This moment deeply resonated with me, as it underlined the universal desire for human connection.
This experience highlighted the true value of travel — it’s not just about the places that we visit, but also the connections we create with people we meet along the way. A simple gesture like taking and sharing a photo can have a profound impact, emphasising the importance of forging meaningful bonds with individuals from different backgrounds.
The ‘blue hour’ is my cherished interlude. It’s the magical period when the world transitions from day to night, bathing everything in a serene, diffused twilight.
Your favourite time of day?
The ‘blue hour’ is my cherished interlude. It’s the magical period when the world transitions from day to night, bathing everything in a serene, diffused twilight. This fleeting moment bridges natural and artificial light, creating a poetic, transformative beauty that I feel deeply connected to, both as a photographer and an observer.
The soft, diffused light of the blue hour is ideal for capturing intricate details, textures, and patterns in both architectural frames and natural landscapes. This gentle, even lighting minimises harsh shadows, allowing the subtle nuances of the subjects to be photographed.
The blue hour sets a tranquil and contemplative mood. It’s a time when the world seems to slow down, and there’s a sense of serenity in the air.
Any favourite images from your archives?
Selecting a favourite image is like choosing a favourite memory; they’re all unique and hold a special place in my heart. Each image encapsulates a distinct experience. Together, these moments define the journey I have taken as a photographer.
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