Annalaura Pretaroli

My presentation explores a visual triangle between nature, cars and humanity through the language of texture, light, and form. Cars represent the precision of human-made replication: reflective materials, minimal texture, and dominant straight lines softened only by functional curves. Flowers stand in contrast as living natural forms — textured, light-absorbent, and organically shaped, where repetition exists within species but every specimen carries unique variations. Human portraits complete the triangle: highly textured, soft, absorbent surfaces with no harsh geometry, where individuality becomes absolute. Together, these three subjects reveal how texture and form evolve from industrial uniformity to natural diversity and finally to human uniqueness.

After earning a law degree in Italy, Annalaura chose to follow a different path, moving to London to study photography at Central Saint Martins. What began as a bold career change soon developed into a distinctive photographic journey shaped by curiosity, sensitivity, and a deep connection with nature.

She started her freelance career in 2015, assisting a renowned fashion photographer and collaborating with model agencies and magazines before gradually expanding her practice into architecture and botanical photography. Over time, her work evolved toward a more contemplative visual language, focused on texture, form, and the quiet beauty found in the natural world.

Her affinity with nature became central to her artistic identity, leading to international recognition in 2018 when she received an award at International Garden Photographer of the Year, the prestigious global competition organised by Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

In 2022, during #shootGR_London event organised by Ricoh, Annalaura gained attention for her distinctive photographic vision and female perspective. Her work stood apart through its ability to reveal beauty in overlooked details and reconnect viewers with nature amid the intensity of everyday urban life. Her imagery also demonstrated the versatility of the GR camera system beyond traditional street photography. Around the same time, she launched the hashtag #ricoh_gr_nature, creating a space dedicated to nature-focused GR photography.

In 2023, she became an official ambassador for Ricoh and shortly afterwards took on the role of curator for the company’s European Instagram account, selecting and showcasing photographic work from across the community.

In 2025, she was appointed the 72nd GRist by the Japanese Ricoh team — a recognition that further established her as one of the most distinctive contemporary voices within the GR photographic world.