Course: BA (Hons) Commercial Photography
Graduated: 2017
Mattia’s experience at AUB profoundly impacted his personal and professional growth. He described his time at the University as a “transformative journey, not just for himself but also for refining his unique approach to photography.”
In the culminating moments of his academic journey, Mattia had the opportunity to direct a video in Italy for John Varvatros, a client from the vibrant city of New York – a place that had always held a special place in Mattia's aspirations.
Post-graduation, Mattia's passion led him to Brooklyn, where he dedicated an entire month to tireless networking. During this period, he crossed paths with influential figures such as model agent Thomas Zeumer, known for representing iconic names like Claudia Schiffer, Eva Herzigová, and Heidi Klum. Zeumer expressed interest in representing Mattia as fashion photographer, adding a significant boost to his budding career.
Upon returning to his hometown of Florence, Mattia established his studio and swiftly earned a reputation as the most sought-after photographer in the city. His desire to absorb the essence of Florence before venturing beyond Italy, akin to applying perfume before stepping out. This venture took him on a whirlwind tour of LA, Miami, and NYC, where he met the most influential people from the industry.
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic forced Mattia to reassess and adapt his plans. Despite facing challenges that threatened his profession and creativity, he seized an unexpected opportunity to relocate to Dubai with his girlfriend. What was initially intended as a brief stay evolved into a permanent move.
In Dubai, Mattia swiftly garnered representation from top agencies, collaborating with prestigious brands like Gucci, Chanel, and Dior, and contributing as a photographer and video director for esteemed publications and covers for such as Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Vogue, Grazia, Marie Claire, ELLE, Glamour and many others. His ascent to the pinnacle of the Middle East fashion industry provided him with the independence and creative freedom he had always aspired to attain, but Dubai became soon tight.
Carrying with him the ethos of his "Florence fragrance" belief, Mattia has traversed the globe, leaving his mark in Thailand, Italy, Bahrain, Spain, Lisbon, Singapore, Africa, London. Now back in New York, he's resolute in pursuing his initial ambitions with a wealth of experience and a refined perspective.
As he navigates the complexities of the industry, Mattia remains grounded in a profound belief encapsulated by the Italian proverb, "Paese che vai, usanza che trovi" — every country has its own customs. He emphasises the importance of carrying an invisible backpack of experiences, asserting that this is the quintessential element for success in the field. To Mattia, each place leaves an indelible fragrance, and by carrying these scents, one's work becomes a testament that others can perceive, appreciating the richness of diverse experiences. Presently, he's in the process of applying for a Visa, aspiring to relocate his business to his "dream city" and compete with the industry's top photographers, producers, and agents eagerly awaiting his arrival.
