Over the past weeks and months, I have learned how much growth comes from combining creativity with structure. I have not only been working on different collaborations, but also building a clearer direction for myself. I launched my website, refined my portfolio, improved the mobile version and created a communication plan to present my work more consistently. Publishing my website felt vulnerable at first, but it also gave me confidence. It marked a shift from preparing in the background to showing up more openly and professionally.
At the same time, I focused strongly on networking. I sent many emails to vintage shops and agencies in Bologna and Milan, introduced myself in person and started building new connections. This taught me how to communicate my value more clearly and how important it is to take initiative. I realised that opportunities do not simply appear, you have to create momentum yourself. Even when not every email led to immediate results, each step strengthened my confidence and communication skills.
My collaborations have expanded in different directions. Working on visual identity and content creation for Delizia helped me think beyond single images and understand branding more deeply. I photographed events, worked on prints, learned video editing and recorded podcasts with my own equipment. Expanding into video pushed me technically and creatively, and I have enjoyed developing new skills that make me more versatile.
The editorial preparation in Naples and upcoming shoots in Milan required detailed planning, from finding models and creating mood boards to writing concepts and adapting ideas when circumstances changed, such as the weather. This taught me flexibility and problem solving. I also collaborated on fashion shoots with other creatives in Bologna, including make up artists and artists, which reminded me how inspiring teamwork can be. Each collaboration strengthened not only my portfolio but also my ability to communicate and co create.
Preparing exhibitions and working on brand concepts, including a new project for a collaboration with a shop in bologna, encouraged me to think more strategically about identity and storytelling. I am learning to see myself not only as a photographer, but as a creative professional who combines vision, planning and entrepreneurship, but mostly with vision I mean ideas on how to be different, my creative impulses work well for that.
Overall I feel proud and motivated. I notice that I am becoming more independent and clearer about what I want. But as well I see I am becoming more professional, as well when I take photographs, it needs to be good. I am working longer on editing as before, I give more focus and attention to my works to make it the best. I am also genuinely enjoying my time here in Bologna. The city, the creative environment and the people I meet give me energy. I feel inspired, supported and positively challenged. Being here still feels like the right place for me to grow, both professionally and personally. I would tell everyone to do an experience like this.
I feel grateful for the experiences, the people I work with and the progress I can already see in myself!! <3