Vulkan Magazine: Gabriele, it’s great to have you here. Let’s start with your background. What led you to pursue a career in photography, especially within the celebrity and fashion world?
Gabriele Di Martino: Thank you, it’s a pleasure. My journey into photography started in Italy, where I was drawn to capturing people and their stories through images. There’s something uniquely powerful about the way a single photograph can convey an emotion or a story. Fashion and celebrity photography were natural choices because I enjoy exploring different personalities and style. Over the years, I’ve been lucky to work with amazing people and brands, and each collaboration has deepened my passion.
Vulkan Magazine: Your work has a distinct style and often captures a unique intensity in your subjects. How would you describe your artistic vision, and what do you hope people take away from your photography?
Gabriele Di Martino: Thank you, I’m glad you noticed—that’s something I really focus on. I’d say my style is all about authenticity. I want people to see something real in my subjects, even if it’s a side they don’t usually show. Whether I’m shooting a celebrity, a fashion icon, or just a friend, I’m always looking for that moment when their true self comes through. I love it when people feel beautiful in my pictures or feel something inside when they see my photos. In the end, I hope my work shows not just the beauty but the soul of the person—and leaves a real impression.
Vulkan Magazine: You’ve worked with some incredible clients and personalities throughout your career. What do you think has been the key to your success in building these relationships and creating impactful images?
Gabriele Di Martino: I think it’s about genuinely connecting with people. Whether it’s a high-profile client or a new collaborator, I approach every shoot as a partnership. I want everyone on set to feel comfortable and open because that’s when we get the best shots. Also, I’m always focused on bringing out something unique in each person—it’s not about just taking a beautiful photo, but about capturing something real. Staying true to that approach has helped me build trust and long-term relationships, and I think that’s a big part of what’s led me to where I am today.
Vulkan Magazine: You recently shot a cover for us with actor Rob Raco, who we hear is also a close friend of yours. How did that friendship influence the shoot?
Gabriele Di Martino: Shooting with Rob is always so special. Since we’re close friends, there was already a level of trust and comfort on set that allowed us to be creative and experiment. We shot in New York, which added its own energy, and Rob brought his unique intensity and authenticity to the shoot. Knowing him well, I aimed to capture his true character—both the charisma he’s known for and the genuine, down-to-earth person he is off-camera. That blend of friendship and professionalism made for some really powerful moments.
Vulkan Magazine: How did you and Rob first meet, and how has your friendship influenced your creative work together?
Gabriele Di Martino: Rob and I met a one year ago through mutual friends at an “Italian dinner” and we instantly connected and decided to shoot something together the next days. There’s a shared understanding between us that makes collaboration natural. Having that connection helps us push creative boundaries because we both trust each other’s instincts. It’s been great seeing his journey as an actor, and I feel fortunate to capture different sides of him through my lens. The friendship adds a layer of authenticity to our work—it’s something that really shows up in the images in my opinion.
Vulkan Magazine: What was the vision for this cover shoot? Did you have any specific themes or inspirations in mind?
Gabriele Di Martino: For this shoot, we wanted to create a cinematic feel, something that would showcase Rob’s intensity but also his more relaxed, authentic side. The New York setting added a bit of rawness and grit, which fit perfectly. We played with natural lighting and dynamic compositions to capture a range of emotions. My goal was to give Vulkan something that feels timeless but also speaks to Rob’s multifaceted personality, thanks also to Simona – the stylist – who perfectly understood the vibe we wanted to achieve.
Vulkan Magazine: Your work with high-profile clients often requires a balance of vision and adaptability. How do you prepare for a shoot, especially one involving someone you know well, like Rob?
Gabriele Di Martino: Preparation is key, but staying open to spontaneity is just as important, specially during big events like Festivals or Fashion Weeks. I usually start with a clear vision, but I leave room for organic moments. Often, the best shots come from those unplanned interactions cause sometimes you don’t have the chance to plan every single shots. Shooting with Rob it’s like we’re in sync, so I can anticipate those moments and frame them effectively giving life to our vision.
Vulkan Magazine: Is there a particular moment from this shoot with Rob that stands out to you?
Gabriele Di Martino: Definitely. The cover shot —it’s the one where Rob’s wearing this stunning coat, standing with a focused expression and intense gaze. We had the perfect light, just soft enough to create a cinematic feel, but strong enough to accentuate the textures and details of the coat. In that shot, everything came together: the composition, the lighting, and, most importantly, the focus on him and his eyes. There’s a vulnerability but also a strength in his expression that captures exactly who he is. It was one of those rare moments when you know instantly that you’ve captured something special. That image felt powerful and raw, embodying both Rob and the energy of New York.
Vulkan Magazine: What advice would you give to young photographers, especially those hoping to break into celebrity and fashion photography?
Gabriele Di Martino: My advice is to find your own voice. There’s a lot of influence out there, but what will set you apart is your unique perspective and be yourself. Also, don’t underestimate the value of relationships and trust. Working with friends like Rob has taught me how essential that connection is—it elevates the creative process. And finally, stay curious. Each shoot offers something to learn, and that’s what makes the journey exciting.
