About the Image

This is some of my personal work.* The image captures a dramatic and cinematic scene in Piazza del Duomo, Milan, during the late golden hour. A beam of warm, angled sunlight cuts across the piazza, casting long, sharp shadows of pedestrians on the textured cobblestone surface. The contrast between the illuminated area and the deep, cool shadows creates a striking visual composition that highlights the interplay of light and shadow, evoking a sense of mystery and movement. I really enjoy the long crisp shadows.

How I Shot It

I'm standing on the pink marble roof of the Milano Duomo, the Milan Cathedral, which is one of the largest in the world. In the photo below the red x shows where I think I was standing when I took the image.

Feel free to share: stpvd.com/25/14

I see things differently, which is an advantage to my clients. Being inspired by the beauty of light, motion, and atmosphere... my personal work reflects the same creativity and attention to detail I bring to every client project, commercial or editorial. Whether you're looking to elevate your brand visuals, tell a compelling story, or capture unforgettable moments with impact, let's create something visually extraordinary together, stills, motion or both. Get in touch to discuss your vision today. E-mail is by far the best way to contact us as we are traveling on average 175 days a year and sometimes well out of cell phone range.

For Photographers

The Gear:
Canon 5D MKIII, ISO 100, with a 70-200mm IS lens at 200mm, f9, 1/2500 shutter speed, hand held.

The Light:
Late sunset on a clear blue sky day.

*"Personal work" refers to photography created without a client or commission — it’s work you aren’t being paid for. Often, it’s the passion projects of seasoned professionals exploring new genres, like a product photographer experimenting with fashion or lifestyle imagery. It can also involve testing new techniques, gear, or collaborators, such as new lighting setups, lenses, models, or makeup artists.

Sometimes, personal work is driven by a desire to highlight social issues or promote a cause. However, for me, it’s purely about capturing the beauty I see in the world, free from politics or statements.

While commercial and editorial projects are my primary focus, my personal work reveals a broader range of creative interests. Some of the best creative directors, art buyers, and producers actively seek out an image maker's personal work to understand a photographer’s unique vision and perspective.

For them, it’s a glimpse into how we see the world, and for me, it’s a chance to play, explore, and create without boundaries.

As an award-winning commercial advertising photographer and director specializing in luxury brands and global campaigns, I bring a distinctive perspective to every project. Inspired by the beauty of light, motion, and atmosphere, I capture visually compelling stories for premium advertising, destination branding, lifestyle campaigns, and editorial storytelling. Whether you’re an art director, creative agency, or brand strategist, I help bring your vision to life with high-impact visuals that elevate your brand’s message.

From stills to motion, every project is approached with the same creativity and attention to detail that defines my personal work. Whether you're looking to tell a compelling story, capture unforgettable moments, or create striking brand visuals, let's collaborate to make something extraordinary together.

Traveling an average of 175 days a year, E-mail is the best way to reach us to discuss your next project.

We are based in Los Angeles, California, Atlanta, Georgia, both in the USA, & Milan, Italy, and serve the nation and travel worldwide for projects, both video and stills. On average we travel 175 days a year from all over the USA, to Singapore to Japan, Europe and the Middle East. We are normally in Europe 2 or 3 times a year, mostly Italy and Germany, shooting for clients there.

If you would like to use this image, or any of my images for mock or comp use, please just ask. There is never a charge for this service. Educational use is permitted without charge, unless published, but please ask first. All commercial use is available only with a limited copyright release prior to use from the copyright holder, Steve Thornton. Thanks for looking!