Jon Stojan
Image credit: Mattia Masi
Mattia Masi’s journey to photography didn’t start behind the lens but in the lecture halls. Before becoming a name in fashion and celebrity photography, he studied International Relations at the University of Milan. Nevertheless, his thesis “Photography Is the Answer: The Importance Of Photography in American History” hinted at a love for visual storytelling—a passion that would soon take over his career path.
Based in Milan, Masi @topazbox went from creating model portfolios to working with global icons. His early work with brands showed a skill for blending editorial and commercial styles. But it was his 2023 Grammy Awards reporting—shot on disposable cameras—that put him on the map. The project, a raw and grainy counterpoint to the event’s glamour, went viral and was praised for its nostalgic feel.
Masi’s creative talents go far beyond the lens – in early 2024, with half a decade of experience, he stepped into the role of Head of Social Media at a cutting-edge fashion and AI start-up, where he merged visual storytelling with digital strategy. Leading their launch campaign and shooting content for their internal production campaign, he not only amplified the brand’s voice but also caught the attention of major media outlets, marking a milestone in both the company’s growth and his own evolution as a creative force.
During Paris Fashion Week 2024, Masi had the privilege of working with the Live from Paris Fashion Week show organized by Ashley McDonnell, who brought a touch of Ireland to Paris.
Today, Masi’s portfolio features high-profile editorial spreads and social media campaigns for Bombay Sapphire, Casamigos. His ability to navigate both realms—artistic integrity and commercial demands—has made him a favorite among luxury brands and celebrities. “Mattia doesn’t just take pictures; he captures moments you want to experience,” says Federica Labanca, a frequent collaborator highlighted in his work for L’Officiel and Miss Dior. Masi’s secret lies in not compartmentalizing. For him, a major brand campaign is as much about storytelling as his personal projects. “Every brand has a narrative. My job is to translate that into visuals without losing the human touch,” he explains.
This philosophy was tested during a 2024 MISHO shoot at Paris Fashion Week. When asked to document a dinner and collection presentation, Masi chose candid shots over staged glamour. The outcome? A series of images that juxtaposed the chaos of backstage preparations with the beauty of the runway—a duality that resonated with the brand’s audience.
Your Grammy Awards reportage using disposable cameras was genius. What was the idea behind it, and did you ever doubt it would work?
Taylor Swift at Grammy Awards. Photo by Mattia Masi.
Mattia Masi: The Grammys were surreal. My friend Bella B. Harris invited me, and we wanted to show the intimate side of the event. Time was tight so I needed something quick yet evocative. One day I saw a Fujifilm disposable camera in a store, and it clicked—literally! Those cameras have a nostalgic rawness. I thought, what if we juxtapose the Grammys’ glamour with something unfiltered?
The risk was real—disposables have no edits, no second chances. But that’s what made it special. The grainy shots humanized the event. People connected with the imperfections like they were flipping through a friend’s photo album. When the images went viral, I knew we’d captured something timeless.
Regarding your photoshoot with Dënis Colak-Taylor featuring a FENDI bag, and her pregnancy reveal – how do you prepare for such emotionally charged and unpredictable moments?
Masi: You can’t fully prepare! With Deniz I had no idea she was pregnant. When she shared the news mid-shoot I drew from past ideas to blend FENDI’s elegance with the warmth of family. In those moments, perfection isn’t the goal—it’s about emotion. Do the tears in her eyes show? Does the light cradle her smile? You pivot, trust your instincts and let the story unfold. That shoot became a celebration of life and fashion which is what FENDI is.
Deniz Fendi bag photoshoot. Photo by Mattia Masi.
Balancing commercial demands with artistry can be tough. What’s the most interesting compromise you’ve made?
Masi: Early in my career I worked on a project where I wasn’t the creative director. That was humbling! I’d always controlled the vision, but here, I collaborated with talented directors. At first, it felt restrictive, but I learned to see through others’ lenses.
One campaign required me to tone down my edgy style for a brand’s minimalist aesthetic. The compromise? We used stark lighting to create depth without clutter. It taught me that constraints can breed innovation. Now I look for partnerships where my vision aligns with the brand’s soul—that’s where the magic happens.
You mentioned the importance of “spec work” for staying relevant. Can you share an example of a personal project that opened new doors?
Masi: Absolutely. In 2022 I created a speculative campaign inspired by Bulgari’s heritage—mixing baroque elements with modern streetwear. I didn’t have a client brief; it was purely about exploring my style. I shared it online, and within weeks, the Bulgari hospitality team reached out to me directly. That project led to an official collaboration the following year.
Spec work keeps your creativity alive. It’s a playground where you can experiment without pressure. Plus, it shows clients what you’re capable of beyond their expectations.
Social media is saturated with content. How do you advise photographers to carve out a unique voice?
Masi: Stop chasing trends. I see so many photographers mimicking what’s popular—moody filters, Reels templates—but that’s a race you’ll never win. Instead ask yourself: What can I offer that no one else can?
For me it’s merging nostalgia with modernity. Whether it’s disposable cameras or vintage lighting techniques I lean into what feels authentic to my journey. Your voice isn’t just your style; it’s your story. Share that boldly and the right audience will find you.
Mattia Masi’s work is all about contrasts: disposable cameras at the Grammys, pregnancy reveals on luxury runways, spec campaigns that rebrand entire identities. In an industry that’s obsessed with polish he’s all about imperfection—not as a flaw but as a language of authenticity.
“A photo should make you feel something before it makes you think” he says. As he continues to blur the lines between art and commerce one thing is for sure: Masi’s lens will always find the pulse behind the glamour.