Meet Nocturna Photography

I’m Annapaola Marchesani, an Italian-born, London-based artist and the creative force behind Nocturna Photography.

My photography spans portraiture, live music, fashion, and events, always led by a fascination with people and their behaviour. I’m drawn to the moments in between: the pause before a note is struck, the glances and gestures, the stillness that speaks louder than movement. Whether I’m working with individuals, artists, or brands, I aim to create imagery that feels cinematic, intimate, and emotionally resonant.

Before photography, I spent nearly two decades working in communication strategy, helping organisations and government departments understand how people think, feel, and connect. That experience now shapes how I work behind the camera, with empathy, attentiveness, and a storyteller’s eye.

I trained at the London Institute of Photography, where I developed both the technical foundation and creative confidence to build my visual language. My influences include Wing Shya, Sarah Moon, and Cho Gi-Seok, along with a long-standing love for East Asian cinema, all of which continue to inform my work.

My co-owned East London studio (Studio Monox, in Royal Victoria) is a welcoming, collaborative space where everyone is safe to be themselves. I also work on location across London, the UK, and internationally.

Alongside commissioned work, I explore more experimental and personal projects through My Playground, a visual journal documenting my journey across fashion, portraiture, travel photography, and beyond.

My live music photography work focuses on the individual presence, the inner soul and emotions, the striking moments and atmosphere. You can see more of this work featured in these music outlets. 

If you'd like to collaborate or just say hello, you can contact me here or email me directly [nocturnaphotography@gmail.com].