Cosmopolitan Italy

Jun 2026

In a masterclass of restraint and editorial precision, this striking portrait series for Cosmopolitan Italy features actor Riccardo De Rinaldis in a performance of quiet intensity. Photographer Simone Paccini leans into the conventions of high-end editorial photography, stripping away narrative clutter to focus entirely on the subject's presence. By utilizing a neutral grey studio background and a controlled mix of studio strobe and natural light, Paccini captures De Rinaldis with a technical clarity that elevates the simple portrait into a study of texture and shadow. The choice of a structured, dark leather jacket with a prominent high collar provides a sharp, sculptural contrast to the softness of the subject’s styled curls, grounding the image in the elevated vernacular of luxury fashion houses. Every frame feels deliberate, favoring clean lines and an unwavering gaze that commands attention without relying on artifice. This project serves as a compelling reminder that when the focus is sharpened to the interplay between light, fabric, and human expression, the results are timeless. By blending these classic techniques, Paccini successfully bridges the gap between contemporary celebrity portraiture and the heritage aesthetic of legacy glossies, proving that the most impactful fashion imagery often resides in the space between meticulous composition and raw, unfiltered charisma.

Editorial, Vertical

Studio strobe, Natural light

Luxury Fashion Houses, Fashion