intimi + photosynthesis

Capturing the diverse masculinities of our queer folks on photographic film while building an inclusive and accessible creative studio in Ōtautahi.

Queer folks are beautiful, diverse and brave, and the LGBTQ+ members of our country, Aotearoa, are no exception.

intimi, a photography book named after the Italian word for “intimate”, will reflect these traits to form a study of raw moments and expressions of these people, who are too often portrayed by media as hyper-sexualised, white-washed or sanitised. 

intimi | ‘A Book of Queer Looks’

Intimacy and authenticity are a central themes in this project. I have chosen to shoot photos on analog film, which slows the process of making photographs to enable deep and personal connections with my subjects. This process involves the development and scanning of the film, editing, and publishing. 

My chosen film is medium format: a roll of 10 images on film costs nearly $30 to buy, and $30 to develop and scan. To me, it’s important that intimi is captured on a timeless medium, so the book is a lasting snapshot of what queerness in Aotearoa looks like, today. For this, I am partnering with the experts at the Black and White Box photography lab who have offered me an exclusive deal for developing.

The images will be pulled together into a high end, large format book, with the help of the talented Leon White Design team. High-quality publishing and printing will make intimi a polished final product. I believe this is important for the legacy of the project, despite the costs attached. 

photosynthesis | A Studio Space for All

This community-integrated photography studio will be one of the most inclusive art spaces in Aotearoa, making the tools and space needed to make professional art accessible to the talented creatives of Christchurch.

photosynthesis will be located near the Christchurch CBD. Creatives will have access to professional grade equipment, including photography and video lights, different backdrops and everything else they need to make high-quality work. As the name suggests, the space will be brimming with plants, as well as thrifted furniture. Most importantly, it will be priced affordably - something I have struggled to find throughout this project myself.

Cross-pollinating with The Green Lab’s understorey, creatives will be able to meet, plan, shoot, and edit in purpose-built and financially accessible environments.

Who I am

I’m Federico, a 26 year old freelance photographer and visual artist based in Ōtautahi / Christchurch. Photography has been my full time gig since I moved to New Zealand from Italy six years ago. Two years ago I switched to analog film which quickly became my favourite way of capturing moments.

Thank you

All donors will be named in the credits and we appreciate any donation that you can offer.

All donations are tax deductible.

To help us even further - please share this page with your networks. People can only give their support if they know about this project. Please help to spread the word!