Welcome to Chiaroscuro
A place to discuss the vision, the how and the why in photography.
Chiaroscuro, an Italian term meaning "light and dark," refers to the use of strong contrasts between light and shadow. Originating during the Renaissance alongside the development of the technique, it was famously employed by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and Goya.
Over time, the term has also been adopted in photography to describe the same dramatic interplay of light and shadow.
Why this name?
“As I gaze through the window while writing this first essay, a beam of light strikes the side of the double bass standing just beyond it, casting a stark contrast between its illuminated side and the deep shadows enveloping the rest.”
Life consists of both light and darkness, and the balance between them shapes who we are. As human beings, we carry within us both a bright and a shadowed side, and each day, we choose which to nurture and where to direct our energy. I firmly believe the answer lies in the middle.
Pure light would be blinding, total darkness, all-consuming. True balance—and our perception of the world—emerges in the infinite shades of gray between them.
I like photography because in it, I see a metaphor of life. We may choose to dwell more in darkness or light, but each needs a touch of its counterpart to create harmony. The right balance of contrast gives a photograph—just like life—depth, meaning, and intrigue.
“I must also have a dark side if I am to be whole” - Carl Gustav Jung
Who am I?
I am Francesco Guerra, a professional photographer from Italy. I have a BFA in Photography and a background in Chemistry and Art History.
For the past 6 years, my work has been focused on the outdoor industry, shooting for climbing and hiking brands and athletes. During this time, you could have find me more easily hanging on a rope than at home.
Recently I started to shoot more personal projects that profoundly resonate with me.
That’s when I started to shoot anthropological themes, scientific research and conservation. I am a contributor for The New York Times, and I have worked with some of the major brands in the outdoor industry such as Climbing Technology, La Sportiva, The North Face and Thule.
What to expect?
In this space, I’ll talk about a variety of topics: personal essays, behind-the-scenes, and the philosophy behind my work. We will explore not only the how, but the why, and we will delve deeper into the whole creative process. This space will be about vision, artistic and personal growth, and how to make an impact enabling you to discover your unique voice.
This space is designed not just for professional and amateur photographers but for anyone curious about the creative process—the struggles, the lessons learned in the field, and the moments of inspiration. Ultimately, Chiaroscuro is a place to find meaning in the act of creation, no matter your craft.
As this space takes shape, the themes will be divided into these four sections:
The meaning behind the lens: Here I’ll be discussing the meaning of the images I make, the creative thinking behind it, and how to elevate your storytelling to a new level through the development of a personal voice.
Stories from the field: Here I’ll share personal essays and stories from my work behind the camera in the commercial and editorial fields.
The Vision: In this section, I’ll talk about personal projects, their state of being, photography techniques and behind-the-scenes.
Wisdom on paper: Here I’ll discuss books —photography, philosophy and others — that contributed to my personal, creative and professional growth.
Why Subscribe?
Every new edition of the newsletter goes directly to your inbox, and many posts will be free. You’ll be the first to read new posts and the latest updates.
As a paid subscriber, you will have access to all the full posts and the full archive. In addition, you will gain the ability to comment and ask questions on all posts, as well as access to the private chat. Moreover, you will have the possibility to hear the voiceovers I will record for every post. You will also get the first announcements on print sales and workshops.
Coming with my deepest gratitude, as a founding member you will get access to all of the above, plus a one-on-one mentorship call.
Updates: On February 15th and 16th I will be in Rome to present my photography workshop in Scotland. If you are in the city, come to say hi!
From 20th to 23rd of February I’ll be in Paris. Feel free to shoot me an email at f.guerraphoto@gmail.com.
Projects: I am working on different projects at this time: A commercial shoot for an American hiking backpack brand, a video for a University, and some personal projects that will be disclosed later on this channel.
Reads: Currently reading two books: Cathedral by Raymond Carver, and Prophecies, Fables and Bestiary by Leonardo da Vinci.
Let’s connect!
Website: www.francescoguerraphoto.com
Instagram: @francescoguerraphoto
