Porfolio
My name is Gaia Li Mandri, a photographer and creative based in Cornaredo, Milan, specialized in portrait photography with strong experience in advanced photo editing.
My work is rooted in the combination of artistic sensitivity and technical skills, developed over time through drawing and photography. Drawing is the foundation of my visual approach: it taught me observation, composition and attention to detail—elements that are also central to my photographic work.
For over 15 years, I have been using tools such as Photoshop and Lightroom to create carefully crafted images down to the smallest detail.
Alongside my freelance activity as a photographer and illustrator, I work as a Digital Manager in an international environment, where I coordinate complex projects and develop digital content, primarily working in English.
This allows me to combine creativity, organization and a strong focus on goals.
I am a versatile professional, used to working both independently and in teams, with a precise, reliable and quality‑oriented approach.
Portrait photography
Portrait photography is at the core of my work. I focus on creating authentic and expressive images that enhance a person’s identity and tell their story through light, composition and atmosphere.
I work both in natural environments and in the studio, using natural or artificial light depending on the desired result.
Natural light
Studio
Weddings
I create photographic services for weddings and events with a natural and romantic style, aiming to capture each moment in a spontaneous yet refined way.
Attention to detail and light allows me to create elegant, timeless images.
Fine‑art photography
In my fine art projects, I explore a more creative and personal approach, often inspired by a dreamlike and narrative aesthetic.
This part of my work reflects my artistic background and my ongoing visual research.
Photo editing
Photo editing is a fundamental part of my creative process.
Thanks to long‑standing experience with Adobe Photoshop, I am able to handle:
- Professional retouching (beauty, skin, advanced corrections)
- Color grading and image development
- Photomontage and compositing
- Image optimization for web and print
I work with precision and attention to detail, adapting the post‑production style to the specific needs of each project.
Adding emotion to a photo
The original background was too distracting for the model’s outfit, so I decided to add umbrellas behind her. The rain drops on the umbrellas help create a more moody and emotional atmosphere.
From a cityscape to the top of a mountain
The original city background wasn’t what I wanted to showcase, so I replaced it with a mountain peak. I added warm lighting and made the dress move with the wind, transforming a simple photo taken in the center of Milan into a dreamy, atmospheric scene.
Drawings
I have always loved drawing and, to pursue my passion, I studied at art high school, spending years copying hundreds of statues by the great masters using various artistic techniques.
I then continued my studies at the Academy of Fine Arts of Brera in Milan, where, among many other subjects, I studied photography, video making and human anatomy.
The emptiness inside
