About
Photography is
mostly waiting.
Elena MarchettiPhotographer — Milan / New York
I started with a borrowed film camera and a habit of staying too long in rooms. Fourteen years later, that's still the work — being patient enough for a person to forget the lens is there.
My approach is documentary at heart: available light, minimal direction, and an eye for the in-between moments most people overlook. Whether it's a wedding, a brand campaign, or a quiet portrait, the goal never changes — make something true.
Based between Milan and New York, I travel worldwide for commissions. I shoot on Hasselblad and Leica M, with analogue film when the project calls for it.
Equipment
— Hasselblad 500CM— Leica M6— Natural light
14
Years shooting
320+
Editorial features
26
Countries
9
Awards
Selected press
Vogue ItaliaConcrete Garden editorial
Dazed BeautyMovement Studies
British Journal of PhotographyNorthern Light
The Sunday Times MagazineCover portrait
National GeographicHuman Geography series
What clients say
“Elena has a rare gift for making you forget the camera is even there. Every frame felt like a memory we'd actually lived.”
“The editorial felt collaborative from the very first call. Elena understood the brand instinctively and the images exceeded every expectation.”
“I've had my portrait taken dozens of times for press. Elena's session was the first time I actually recognised myself.”
Ready to work together?
I take on a limited number of commissions each year to keep every project personal. Get in touch early.