Photography as an act of care
Emma Innocenti is a Florence-born, London-trained photographer whose work is shaped by memory, discipline, and emotional awareness. This is her story so far.
Early years and memory
Emma Innocenti grew up in Florence surrounded by family photographs and her father’s Super 8 films. From an early age, images were connected to memory, emotion, and time.
As a teenager, she dedicated herself to rhythmic gymnastics, developing discipline, focus, and a strong sense of commitment. When she realised she would not pursue a professional athletic career, she redirected that same intensity into photography — building a darkroom at home and documenting everyday life with curiosity and care.
London, discipline and direction
Her early work in documentary photography led to collaborations with local newspapers and international assignments, including work in Mexico. Wanting a deeper understanding of the photographic medium, Emma moved to London to study at the London College of Printing and later completed a Master’s in Art Photography at the University of the Arts London.
Her research explored the space between documentary and constructed imagery. Her graduation project, Photonovela — an autobiographical work re-staged with actors — was exhibited widely and included in a Tate Gallery workshop on women artists’ diaries.
Partnership, editorial and international work
Despite recognition within the art world, Emma sought work that felt purposeful and connected. She became photographic director of DIVA Magazine, where she shaped a more authentic visual language for women while directing shoots, commissioning photographers, and producing editorial work at a high level.
During this period, she met David Steven Lee. Their partnership quickly became both personal and professional.
Together they worked for international agencies such as Getty Images, Corbis, and Adobe, producing editorial and lifestyle imagery long before the genre became codified.
Return to Italy, illness and reorientation
In 2011, they relocated to Italy with their young daughter, continuing to work internationally while establishing a studio in Florence.
Emma was at the height of her commercial career when, in 2014, she was diagnosed with advanced breast cancer. The year that followed brought surgery, treatment, and a complete pause.
How Emma works today
Recovery reshaped her priorities with clarity. Today, Emma works with a heightened sensitivity to presence, vulnerability, and emotional space.
She approaches photography as an act of care - guiding gently, observing closely, and allowing people to feel safe in front of the camera.
Her work is grounded in trust, restraint, and honesty. She photographs people not as subjects, but as individuals in relationship - creating images intended to be lived with, remembered, and passed on.
Photography, for Emma, is not about capturing moments - but about making space for them.