Giacomo doesn’t have a personal observatory. Instead, his observing site depends on family and work commitments. Most nights, he sets up on the terrace of his home in a small provincial village. But whenever possible, he joins his local amateur astronomers’ association on trips to more isolated areas, often in the mountains, “always in search of the best skies, which, unfortunately, have become increasingly rare.”
This sense of adaptability carries into his philosophy: “There wasn’t a real first photo to remember; for me, every photo is like the first. I experience it as an evolutionary process in constant movement.” Unlike many astrophotographers, Giacomo doesn’t have a single favorite target. “I love all celestial objects. Each one tells its own story, starting with the choice of the object and continuing with acquisition and processing.” For him, the true measure of success isn’t awards but progress. “Success in astrophotography, in my humble opinion, is being able to take a better photo than my previous one.” Helping friends solve problems with their equipment or images is just as rewarding as finishing one of his own projects.
Like every astrophotographer, Giacomo has learned to live with setbacks. “I don’t think there’s ever been a night where everything went smoothly, but that’s part of the game; it all leads you to learn and improve. The driving force is passion for the cosmos and the desire to do better.”
One of the most important steps in Giacomo’s journey was joining the Salento Amateur Astronomers Group. The association is highly active in astrophotography, public outreach, and observation. Surrounded by passionate and skilled peers, Giacomo found guidance, inspiration, and friendship.
“I always recommend anyone who wants to take up this wonderful hobby to contact a team or association in their area. Having experienced people available helps overcome problems, saves time and money, and makes the results more satisfying.”
As for future goals, Giacomo keeps it simple: the next target is always waiting. “An astrophotographer is always looking for subjects to capture. Sometimes you plan another while you haven’t even finished the previous one.” For Giacomo, astrophotography is more than images—it’s a path of growth, patience, and community. “Astrophotography has given me, and continues to give me, wonderful new experiences, and it has introduced me to extraordinary people with the same passion as me.”
His advice to beginners is simple yet powerful: don’t walk the path alone. “Join a group, share the journey, and learn from others. The sky is the same for everyone, but sharing it makes the experience richer.”
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