DUBAI: Italian film director, fashion creator and photographer Luca Finotti is sharing his global industry experience with emerging creatives in Dubai recently as part of a mentorship program at Istituto Marangoni Dubai, where he is working with students studying Fashion Communication and Image via digital sessions.
Finotti has built an international career at the intersection of fashion, film and photography, directing campaigns and fashion films for some of the industry’s biggest names, including Nike, Versace, Giorgio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Tommy Hilfiger, Moschino and Hugo Boss. His portfolio also features collaborations with high-profile figures such as Lady Gaga, Monica Bellucci, Sofia Vergara, Gigi Hadid and Rita Ora.
Speaking about the advice he offers aspiring creatives, Finotti emphasized the importance of individuality and perseverance in an increasingly competitive industry.
“Think of yourself as the opportunity. Make your heritage, intuition, and personal vision count,” he told Arab News after the session. “Talent alone is never enough; consistency and humanity are what truly shape a creative path.”
Despite working with some of the world’s most recognizable stars, Finotti believes authenticity remains at the heart of compelling visual storytelling.
“The lens of a camera never lies — it simply reflects reality,” he said. “I always try to look beyond the name, beyond fame, and connect with the person standing in front of me.”
As fashion films continue to evolve in the age of social media, Finotti hopes the next generation of image-makers will focus on substance as much as aesthetics.
“I hope more creatives and brands will lead communication toward real values — human values — and create projects capable of generating genuine social impact,” he said. “Those who have a voice also have a responsibility.”
While his role in Dubai was to mentor emerging talent, Finotti said the exchange was far from one-sided.
“I truly love mentoring because it allows me to become the first viewer of someone else’s creativity and imagination,” he said. “For me, this exchange is not only educational — it is a genuine gift.”
Roberto La iacona, Institution Director at Istituto Marangoni Dubai, agrees.
“At the heart of creativity is collaboration, being inspired by the world around us, the people we meet, the experiences we encounter, and the way creativity can bring communities together,” he said before highlighting previous mentors, including Max Mara Design Director Ian Griffiths, Carolina Herrera Creative Director Wes Gordon, and CEO of the Italian haute couture house Maison Schiaparelli, Delphine Bellini.
