Interview with Paolo Gabriele Maiero
BIFA 2024 Winner, 1st Place, Non-Professional Nature, “Milky Way On Tide”
Q: Can you tell us a bit about your background and what inspired you to embark on a career in photography? Was there a specific moment when you realized this was your calling?
My journey into photography began about ten years ago, starting as a passion driven by the desire to capture the beauty of the world around me. It was while exploring the Dolomites in Italy that I realized how deeply I felt connected to the art of storytelling through landscapes. There wasn’t a single defining moment; instead, it was a gradual progression. The various words of appreciation and encouragement I received along the way pushed me to continue my path in photography.
Q: What was the inspiration behind your winning project? How did the idea come to you, and what message were you aiming to convey through your work?
The project was inspired by the breathtaking starry sky visible from the Teide Plateau in Tenerife. It’s one of the darkest skies in Europe, making it perfect for stargazing and astronomical observation. The photo represents my personal interpretation of this incredible landscape. I wanted to create something unique that didn’t showcase the usual (albeit fantastic) subjects commonly associated with this location.
Q: Every great story comes with its challenges. What were some of the hurdles you faced while capturing your award-winning project, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges was fatigue. To capture this photo, I had to stay out almost all night, both to scout the best composition and to shoot the panorama. The image is made up of multiple rows of vertical shots stitched together to create a comprehensive view of the Milky Way in the sky. The exhaustion didn’t come from just that one night but from the many others spent awake on the Teide plateau capturing nightscapes.
Q: What motivated you to enter the Budapest International Foto Awards? What does winning 1st place in your category mean to you personally and professionally?
I decided to participate to share my work with a broader audience and connect with people who share my passion for photography. Winning 1st place fills me with pride; it’s a recognition that rewards years of commitment and dedication. It’s also a great motivator to keep pushing my creative boundaries.
Q: Could you share some insights into the equipment and techniques you used to create your winning images? Is there a particular tool or method you always rely on?
I use both a full-frame mirrorless camera and a full-frame DSLR, along with a set of versatile lenses (especially wide-angle ones for landscapes) and a sturdy tripod for all environments. For this project, I used my full-frame DSLR paired with a 15-30mm lens. I captured several shots: one row of vertical shots for the sky and two rows of vertical shots for the foreground. This method allowed me to achieve a balanced composition between the foreground and the sky, which is the focus of the image. The sky shots were taken at 20 seconds, f/2.8 aperture, and ISO 5000, while the foreground shots were taken at about 300 seconds, f/4.5 aperture, and ISO 2500. These photos were then aligned, stitched, and post-processed in Photoshop.
Q: Looking back on your journey, what has been the highlight of your career so far? How does this award compare to other milestones you’ve achieved?
The most significant moment has been seeing how my work resonates with people, whether through exhibitions or online platforms. This award holds a special place because it represents international recognition—a significant affirmation of my journey and an encouragement to keep improving.
Q: What advice would you offer to emerging photographers hoping to make their mark in the industry? Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you wish you’d known earlier?
My advice is to stay curious and experiment constantly. Don’t be afraid to fail—some of my best work has come from moments when I thought I couldn’t contribute anything more to photography. Also, focus on developing a unique voice rather than chasing trends. One lesson I wish I had known earlier is the importance of patience, both in waiting for the perfect shot and in building a career.
Q: Photography is often described as a universal language. How do you approach storytelling in your work, and how do you connect emotionally with your audience?
I approach storytelling by fully immersing myself in the environment, letting the mood of the place guide me. Every landscape has a unique energy, and my goal is to translate that into an image that conveys emotions. I believe authenticity and passion are what resonate most with the audience, so I always aim to create shots that reflect my state of mind at that moment.
Q: If you could work on any photography project in the world, unrestricted by budget or location, what would it be and why?
I would love to document the remote and untouched landscapes of Antarctica, the Arctic, Patagonia, or other pristine areas. Capturing the beauty of these places would not only be a dream but also an opportunity to raise awareness about climate change and environmental conservation.
Q: What’s next for you after this incredible achievement? Are there any upcoming projects or goals that you’re particularly excited about?
I’m working on a new project that combines mountain and seascape photography, exploring the connection between these two environments. Additionally, I want to continue exploring the world and sharing my experiences to inspire other photographers. This award has given me even more energy to take on new creative challenges.
