A Day of Photography Workshop in Milan: Exploring the City with Fresh Eyes

Milan is a city that never ceases to amaze. It’s the beating heart of business, fashion, and design, yet it hides corners of beauty that capture the soul of those who know how to look closely. A few days ago, I had the privilege of leading a group of foreign tourists on a photography workshop through the streets of this extraordinary city, and I want to share how it went.

The morning began with a clear sky and perfect light, the kind every photographer dreams of. We met in Piazza del Duomo, where the grandeur of the cathedral immediately grabbed everyone’s attention. The participants, hailing from all corners of the world, were visiting Milan for the first time. Some were amateur photographers, others simply curious travelers with a passion for photography. But they all shared one thing: the desire to discover and capture the city through their lenses.

Walking, Observing, Photographing

Our journey started with a slow, mindful walk. In Milan, walking is the best way to uncover its essence. I encouraged the group to look not just straight ahead, but also to the right, left, up, and down. It’s incredible how many wonders you can notice with a bit of attention: the intricate details of historic building facades, the sleek geometries of Porta Nuova’s skyscrapers, the reflections in the elegant shop windows of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

During the workshop, I didn’t just focus on the technical basics of photography, like exposure, depth of field, or light management. I wanted to teach the participants to see. Photography isn’t just about technique—it’s about sensitivity. Sharing my approach as a professional photographer means helping others find their unique perspective, giving a personal touch to every shot. Whether it’s an architectural detail, a play of shadows, or a fleeting moment in the city’s hustle, every photograph tells a story.

Milan: A City That Surprises

As we moved toward the Brera district, with its cobblestone streets and bohemian vibe, I saw the participants’ faces light up. Milan isn’t just the metropolis of fashion and design week; it’s a city that reveals itself to those who take the time to explore it. Even I, who have known it for years, continue to be enchanted by certain views: a ray of sunlight filtering through buildings, an ancient doorway opening to a hidden courtyard, a detail waiting to be captured.

We took a break at a small café, where, over an espresso, we reviewed some of the photos taken. It was thrilling to see how each person had interpreted the city differently. Some focused on the contrast between old and new, others captured the vibrant colors of a passing tram, and some chose to portray Milan’s quieter, more intimate side.

A Workshop for Everyone

My photography workshop isn’t meant to be overly technical. Sure, we talk about composition, balancing elements in a frame, harnessing natural light, or adjusting camera settings. But the main goal is to help participants develop a keener eye, to find the confidence to express their creativity. You don’t need to be an expert: just bring a camera (or even a smartphone) and a curiosity to discover.

If the idea of exploring Milan with a professional photographer, learning to see the city with fresh eyes, and taking home not just beautiful photos but an unforgettable experience excites you, I’d be delighted to guide you. Together, we’ll wander through Milan’s wonders, capturing its beauty and learning to transform it into images that reflect you.

Ready to discover Milan through your lens? Contact me, and let’s plan a photography day you’ll never forget!

The Beauty of Milan: A Morning with Santa Maria delle Grazie

This morning, as the sun cast a golden glow over the cobblestone streets of Milan, I set out with my camera to capture one of the city’s timeless treasures: Santa Maria delle Grazie. This iconic church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is more than just a architectural marvel—it’s a testament to the soul of Milan, a city that effortlessly weaves history, art, and culture into its everyday fabric.

Walking through the quiet streets of the city at dawn, with the cool air carrying the faint scent of espresso from nearby cafés, I arrived at the understated yet majestic facade of Santa Maria delle Grazie. The early light softened the terracotta hues of its Renaissance brickwork, and the elegant dome, designed by Donato Bramante, stood proud against the pale blue sky. My camera clicked, capturing the delicate interplay of shadow and light on the church’s arches, a reminder of the genius that shaped this sacred space.

Santa Maria delle Grazie is, of course, famous for housing Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper in its adjacent refectory. Though my lens couldn’t capture the masterpiece itself, the weight of its presence seemed to linger in the air, as if the walls themselves whispered stories of art and devotion. The church’s simplicity belies its significance—a humble exterior guarding one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures.

What struck me most, however, was how this moment felt like a microcosm of Milan’s charm. This is a city that doesn’t demand you seek out its beauty; it simply invites you to wander. From the soaring spires of the Duomo to the hidden courtyards of Brera, Milan rewards those who walk its streets with curiosity and a camera in hand. Every corner reveals something new—a weathered statue, a vibrant street market, or the intricate details of a centuries-old building.

This morning’s encounter with Santa Maria delle Grazie was a reminder that Milan’s beauty lies in its layers. It’s in the quiet grandeur of its landmarks, the fleeting moments of light, and the stories etched into its stones. All it takes to uncover these treasures is a willingness to explore, to let the city unfold before you, one step and one snapshot at a time. So, grab your camera, lace up your shoes, and let Milan reveal its endless wonders.