The island of vibrant color.

An island of perfection.

Italy is full of surprises and gems galore. I suppose with fresh eyes, like mine, everything seems more interesting because I don’t live here…BUT…I think even the locals agree that they have so much to boast about. Visiting Basilica di San Pietro has been my favorite Roman site, thus far. It remains one of the biggest church in the world, and was designed by Michelangelo, Bramante, Maderno, and Bernini (among others). I spent an hour alone inside, marveling at the grand design and applauding the artists for handling it was such great attention. I’ve had the chance to live near the sea in the town of Anzio, and this last weekend I visited the quaint town of Ronciglione, ate delicious pasta with a special kind of rabbit meat, and then drove to see Civita di Bagnoregio - a town positioned on top of a hill overlooking the Tiber river valley.

What can I say? Traveling and experiencing a different culture could never be boring. There’s just too much.

I arrived in the beautiful country of Italy last week, for the first time! So far my experience has been so positive - there is much to love: the history, the incredible architecture, the food, the hospitality from many locals, the sweet sound of the Italian language. My initial interactions with Rome has been quite overwhelming. I feel like everywhere I turn, the city cries, “Photograph me, please!” And with careful and kind eyes for the next month, photograph it, I shall.

Work is always easier when you get to interact with people you like. I’ve been fortunate enough to meet and work with Michelle Madsen - a fashion blogger who has a unique style, is passionate about living life to the fullest, and is just sweet as pie. Michelle contacted me almost 6 months ago explaining that she had a desire to create a blog called TAKE AIM. The goal behind the project is to ”inspire people to take a risk - whether it’s in fashion or anything you love”. Since then, I’ve been photographing her different looks and have really enjoyed being a part of her long-term project. Below are some of my personal favorites!