In Focus: Discovering Wonder with Teo Giovanni Poggi

Sitting Down With

Teo Giovanni Poggi

Words By

Guided by the quiet beauty of everyday moments, Teo invites us to explore the intersection of adventure and photography, where the art lies in discovering unexpected connections — like a moon and a crane — that turn the ordinary into something extraordinary.

Inspiration isn’t limited to distant landscapes. For photographer Teo Giovanni Poggi, every scene holds potential for discovery. Mixing analogue simplicity with digital precision, he captures unusual connections — reminding us of the wonder that exists in juxtaposing the familiar. In this conversation, he shares his approach to balancing gear, discipline and creativity, offering insights on how authenticity and curiosity shape his craft.

Urth

Who or what are your biggest inspirations in the outdoor and photography worlds? How have they shaped your approach to your projects?

Teo

I try to find inspiration in small things from every kind of source. The way a tree grows, my friend Myles’s approach to time, the shape of a rock — they can all influence my way of seeing and reacting to the world.

Urth

What are some of your favourite locations for outdoor photography, and why do they stand out to you?

Teo

I am lucky to live in Italy, with a variety of different landscapes in such a relatively small place. I love the alps for their brutality and beauty or anywhere by the sea for vastness and light, but I try to repeat to myself that wonder can be in any place near or far.

Urth

Could you walk us through how you select your photography gear for a climb? What factors influence your choices?

Teo

I like to bring all kinds of cameras and gear for a climb, including a medium format film camera which didn’t survive (rip). Nowadays, I often bring simple point and shoot film cameras for their great one-handed usability and integrated flash, but also a nice 35mm metal SLR with good optics is a joy to use. When on assignment, I'd have a main digital body with the aforementioned adapted lenses, a smaller digital compact cam and one or more 35mm tiny cameras.

Urth

Can you describe one of the most memorable shots you've captured? What made it special, and what were the challenges involved?

Teo

I think one image that I am really attached to is this picture of a crescent moon, seemingly hanging from a crane hook with a plane flying just underneath. It's a picture I took on my phone when I was living in Australia. I remember chasing this beautiful moon on my bicycle trying to find the right juxtaposition — that's when I realised how much I love to find connections between things.

Urth

What advice would you give photographers who want to combine their passion for adventure with their photography? Are there specific skills, gear or techniques that have been essential for shooting outdoors?

Teo

Whether developing a project or assisting a photographer, I believe that your attitude and approach to image making has to be true and honest. A balance of self compassion and discipline will do more than any gear. Other than that, the canonic advice: wear good shoes!