Only Human

Travel photographer Matteo Carta discusses his mission to convey in pictures the importance of cultural diversity in a modernising world.

Travel and portrait photography are two genres that often go hand in hand, since both focus on the same goal – to capture character, of either people or places. When faced with an exotic locale, it may seem as if any image is a guaranteed success, however significant skill is required on the photographer’s part, to accurately present personality and atmosphere. Pro shooter Matteo Carta (matteocartaphotography.altervista.org) took some time out of his schedule to speak to us about his refined artistic approach and love of travel.

What got you started in photography? 

I did Asian studies and after graduating from university I moved to China, to teach Italian. During my time off work I always went backpacking around South East Asia. I started taking pictures, simply because it became the easier medium to show my parents my whereabouts. When travelling solo, the camera became my companion and once I’d started, I became completely absorbed in photography. It became my main reason for travelling and immersing myself in other cultures and their people. Before I moved to China I used to play bass guitar in a band and, in a way, being busy creatively is something that I need in my life. I am a curious person and I always need to challenge myself.

What motivates your photography? 

When I’m photographing, my attention falls on moments of life that define the culture of a country, or a specific ethnic group. I like people and how different we are – differences are, in my opinion, what define us. We live in a fast-changing world, where cultures are melting together and becoming similar. Modernity has improved our lives, but we cannot underestimate the cultural loss that comes with it. Having a picture published in National Geographic was a great [personal] achievement and was also a great push to follow my desires.