Lifting Shadows Off a Dream

About Thomas de Franzoni

The focus of the multi-award-winning landscape photographer is always on capturing the emotional depth and serene grandeur of nature. From the gentle curves of the Tuscan hills to the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites and the idyllic shores… Read more

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BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The focus of the multi-award-winning landscape photographer is always on capturing the emotional depth and serene grandeur of nature. From the gentle curves of the Tuscan hills to the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites and the idyllic shores of Lake Garda, his work crystallizes the versatility and majestic beauty of the Italian landscape.
De Franzoni’s work encompasses a wide range of subjects, from vibrant colors to high-contrast black-and-white images. Whether bathed in light and idyllic or shrouded in mist and mystery, his photographs reflect the mesmerizing facets of nature. At the heart of his work is the creation of a dreamlike atmosphere through the careful use of light, evoking a sense of tranquility and wonder. His precise work with analog film, low sensitivity, and long exposure times allows for the remarkable plasticity and distinctive depth of his photographs.
His introspective black-and-white photographs focus more on shapes, textures, and the subtle interplay of light and shadow, giving them a timeless, often melancholic quality. His artistic evolution from exploring colors to adopting a monochromatic visual language reflects his search for the essence of the scene, which, free from the distractions of color, offers a more intimate connection with nature.
For Thomas de Franzoni, the key to a successful photograph lies in the emotions that undeniably permeate all his works. Whether the subject is dynamic, like plunging waterfalls, or captures a moment where time seems to stand still, like a picturesque avenue bathed in dim sunlight: each of his photographs exudes such a strong allure that the viewer is almost pulled into the image by nature itself, enveloped in its calming depth.
In 2024 alone, his artistic achievements were honored with numerous prestigious awards, highlighting the emotional and aesthetic power of his works.

VITA

Award-winning photographer Thomas de Franzoni resides in northeastern Italy, near the Slovenian border, with his wife and son. His journey into photography began shortly after the birth of his child, when he purchased his first DSLR camera. From that point forward, his passion for photography rapidly expanded. Through courses, workshops, and dedicated research, de Franzoni honed his skills and has since become internationally renowned. His evolving style is celebrated for its ability to capture mood, light, and atmosphere in ways that are both distinct and emotionally evocative.

INTERVIEW

Picasso once said, “you don’t make art, you find it.” Where do you find your art?
Art is everywhere but you have to be good at finding it.

From an idea to its materialization: How do you approach your work?
I like classic landscape photos, therefore interesting and aesthetically attractive places which, with the right conditions, become photographically appealing. Then I like more creative photography. I try to imagine the finished photo, to have a good idea. From the final image that I have in my mind I then try to capture the various components. The subject, the sky, the environment. Many times, I ask my partner to be my subject, perhaps on a pier on a lake and then I remove or add elements to make the image unique and dreamy. I don’t use any artificial intelligence; all parts of the final image are mine.

What is your favorite book?
As a kid I read all of Stephen King's books. Today I prefer books on photography like the series written by Michael Freeman.

Which artist would you like to have coffee with and what would you discuss?
Artist in general? Then I would like to have a coffee with the singer of my favorite band, Anathema. Music always gives me a lot of inspiration. As I look at and process my photos, the music in the background inspires me deeply.

How did you get into art?
In my family, art understood as music, painting, creations, has always been present. When I was young, I played several instruments and I played in a metal band. As an adult I discovered photography, my interest grew rapidly and today I can say that it is my main interest.

Who are the people in your surroundings that influence you?
I love my family, and they indirectly influence me and help me a lot. Then I have some photographer friends who live not far from me, who I occasionally manage to meet for some photographic outings. It's very nice when you can share your passion with others.

Imagine you have a time machine. Where would you go?
Very difficult question. The future scares me a lot. I don't have much faith in humans and destruction could be around the corner. I would go back to the 80s, when I was a kid. It was a time of growth on all levels, and art and music also marked the world forever.

Other than art, what are you most passionate about?
I really love sport and healthy living. I like to practice many types of sports and also follow events and matches on TV. As mentioned above, music is also very important. At home I always have the stereo on in the background. Depending on what I do I choose which CD to put on.

What are you working on right now?
I look forward to autumn, the most beautiful season for landscape and nature photographers. The colors, the atmospheres created by the mists, the soft lights of the dawns are such important factors for photography. Soon I would like to start organizing workshops. Years ago, I myself was a "student" and I thought it would be really nice to one day be able to be on the side of those who teach others. It's something I'd like to do, but I want to plan it down to the smallest detail.