STEVE MCCURRY

& EOLO PERFIDO

Rome Street Photography Workshop 2023

Capturing Life As It Is.

For as long as I can remember, Steve McCurry's photographs have been a source of profound inspiration in my life. His ability to evoke a myriad of emotions through his lens has always left me in awe. Participating in his Rome street photography workshop was not just a dream come true but an enriching journey that allowed me to delve into the art of storytelling through the lens.

McCurry's unique approach to connecting with people and conveying powerful narratives through their eyes has been a constant fascination and a wellspring of inspiration for me. His iconic images, telling stories of life's nuances, have been etched in my mind, shaping my perspective on photography.

His guidance went beyond technicalities; it was about capturing life as it is—raw, unfiltered, and authentic.

The Power of the Image.

The workshop unfolded a profound exploration of the power inherent in each image. McCurry, with a serious yet inviting demeanor, masterfully creates a space for individuals to reveal their truths through the camera lens. Observing him in action on the streets was an intriguing and intense experience as he focused on extracting one powerful image that speaks volumes, prioritizing authenticity over a series of rapid shots to tell a story. The workshop, guided by this philosophy, emphasized the transformative impact of a single, evocative photograph.

Street Photography is an investment of time to be at the right place at the right time.

Perfido revealed a fundamental truth — it's an investment of time to be at the right place when the moment unfolds. Time, our most precious commodity in this life, takes center stage in the pursuit of capturing reality that evokes beauty and truth. The art lies in waiting for the moment, where perspective, the human element, actions, energy, and body dynamics coalesce into a single, evocative frame. Perfido's guidance not only refined my understanding of the technical aspects but also the significance of patience and perspective in the pursuit of capturing the essence of life on the streets.

Spend a lot of time failing.

The KEY is hard work and practice.

McCurry and Perfido illuminated the path to mastery—through the often-overlooked terrain of failure. Their collective wisdom distilled into a simple yet powerful message: spend ample time embracing and learning from failure. The key, they emphasized, lies in the diligent combination of hard work and continuous practice.

A cornerstone of their teachings was the encouragement to seek out assignments that allow you the freedom to authentically do your own thing to capture real moments. This freedom, they stressed, is crucial for nurturing one's unique perspective and style. Their guidance served as a reminder that the journey towards mastery is a dynamic process—one that involves persistent effort, a willingness to learn from setbacks, and the courage to embark on assignments that allow for creative autonomy.

In the streets of Rome, this workshop became more than a technical exploration of photography; it evolved into a profound journey of self-discovery and artistic growth. The invaluable lesson imparted was clear: failure is not a roadblock but a stepping stone toward excellence, and the true magic lies in the continuous dedication to mastering your own unique style.

The Studio is a work of observation.

Within the studio, photography transforms into a meticulous work of observation. Perfido's guidance emphasized the significance of moving deliberately slow, a practice that unveils the inherent elegance and atmosphere within each shot. The studio becomes more than a setting; it evolves into a dynamic space where an energy flow is nurtured between the photographer and the model. This experience highlighted the essence of capturing not just images but the emotions and nuances that arise in the interplay and the artistry that unfolds when the pace is deliberate and the connection profound.

As I reflect on the invaluable lessons from the Rome Street Photography Workshop with Steve McCurry and Eolo Perfido, the essence of photography reveals itself as more than capturing mere moments; it's the art of crafting narratives. It's about embracing the impact of a single image, dedicating time to patient observation, and allowing failures to illuminate the path to mastery. This workshop transcended technicalities; it unfolded as a journey of self-discovery and an invitation to uncover one's distinctive voice through photography. With this newfound wisdom and inspiration,

I am poised to tell stories that resonate with my voice and always with authenticity, beauty, and truth.