INTERVIEW
October 22, 2021
NUANCES OF LIGHT
Photography by Simone Batini
Interview by Melanie Meggs
As the sun casts its golden light in the valleys of Tuscany, we are reminded of the beauty that can be found in this region of Italy. From the rolling hills of vineyards to the quaint old towns and the rustic feel of traditional craftsmanship, Tuscany is an area of unique beauty that has been captured and immortalised by the Italian photographer Simone Batini.
Since a young age, Simone has been inspired by the light and atmosphere of the Tuscan countryside, and his passion for photography has only grown over the years. His photographs tell a unique story of ancient crafts being practiced in modern times, along with capturing the beauty of the region's landscapes. With a signature style that emphasises realism, yet often includes a special light and mood, Simone's work is breathtakingly beautiful.
Join us as we take a journey through Tuscany's history and culture, as told through the stunning photography of Simone Batini.
“I find inspiration through the research of what I prefer to photograph, from nature that changes with the seasons, to the life of people who through work and crafts have evolved over the years, but also in the present continue to maintain ancient traditions. I love to tell all this through my photographs, with the search for the light and atmosphere that strikes me most to best convey my photographic vision. In recent years, I have been dedicating myself to enhancing my areas with both landscape shots and reportage, always with the great passion for photography that I have since childhood.”
IN CONVERSATION WITH SIMONE BATINI
THE PICTORIAL LIST: Simone please tell us about yourself. How did you become interested in photography?
SIMONE BATINI: I live in Italy in the Tuscany region. I have been passionate about photography for years, since I was a child. I have always tried to immortalize through images what struck me the most. Growing up and with the arrival of digital photography, I have tried to learn more and more, and to date, I think I have achieved a good skill level, through the study of light, composition and the search for specific projects.
TPL: Do you have a favourite type of photography? In this instance, we present your stunning landscape photographs and, separately, a documentary about artisans in Tuscany. What is your purpose in taking these photos?
SB: I like almost all photographic genres, personally I take a very natural and truthful photograph, for my shots I prefer the landscape and reportage genre, however I also practice other genres such as macro and street.
The series of photographs entitled TEMPI PASSATI (TIMES PAST)* was born from my idea of telling the artisan working realities still present in my territory.
Regarding the landscape series, the first genre that I practiced and to which I am much attached, it is a real thrill to wake up early in the morning and try to capture the nuances of dawn with the mists and above all, with the warm light that follows. It transmits to me positive sensations, through this I try to show the places that are most dear to me, with the same search for light even at nightfall. I love the last hours of the day and I hope to experience these positive sensations for many days of my life.
Editor's Note: Read the story by Simone via the link below.
TPL: Does the equipment you use help you realize your vision in your photography? What camera do you use? Do you have a favourite lens/focal length?
SB: I have been using Nikon cameras for years, currently Nikon D610 and Nikon Z50. My favourite lenses are the 24-120 f4 and the 16-50 f3.5/5.6, and also a prime lens of 20mm and a 90mm, which are both f2.8.
It is a real thrill to wake up early in the morning and try to capture the nuances of dawn with the mists and above all, with the warm light that follows.
TPL: What are some of your goals as an artist or photographer? Where do you hope to see yourself in five years?
SB: My goals are to maintain the level I have reached and if possible improve it in small steps. In five years, I hope to be still in the field, always engaged in new photographic projects, the hope and the dream of transforming this passion into a real job never fades, but I am aware that today it is difficult to become noticed among many photographers, and I still have a lot to learn.
TPL: Are there any special projects you are currently working on that you would like to let everyone know about?
SB: I am currently completing a series of reportages on modern sculptors and the landscapes of my land.
TPL: "When I am not out photographing, I (like to)…
SB: Observe carefully what surrounds me, be in company and meet creative people. Of course also being with the family and above all with my two children, to whom I try to transmit the main values of life, in respect of nature, people and things."
By looking at the work of Simone Batini, we can see how a single photographer can capture the essence of a region and immortalise it in their work. We invite you to explore the beauty of Tuscany through Simone Batini's photographs, and experience its unique atmosphere with each image. Join us in admiring the beauty of this remarkable photographer and his work, and take inspiration from his artistry to create your own scenes of wonder.
