Francesca Donnoli is a Melbourne-born, self-taught photographer with a deep connection to stories of community and heritage. The daughter of Italian immigrants who arrived in Australia after World War II, she grew up immersed in stories of resilience, displacement, and belonging—narratives that continue to shape her work.
She gravitates toward culture-rich communities, drawn to people whose faces and gestures hint at untold stories.
Her photography is influenced by the composition and solitude of Edward Hopper, the atmospheric colour of Saul Leiter, and the way writers like Maya Angelou and Paul Auster explore the depth of human experience.
Francesca believes that our greatest blessing is the ability to notice.
Recognition for Francesca's talent came in 2023 when she was included in the Australian Women in Photography (AUSWIP) catalogue. This prestigious acknowledgment further underscores her contribution to the photography community in Australia and beyond.
To explore Francesca Donnoli's portfolio, purchase fine art prints, or inquire about her services, please visit the ‘Contact’ page.
2023 Collective City Victorian Archives Centre Gallery, Melbourne
2020 Double Exposure Indian Photo Festival, Hyderabad, India
2020 Each for Equal International Women’s Day Exhibition, Melbourne
2019 Click 19 Finalist Exhibition at Brunswick Street Gallery, Melbourne
2018 Grounded Group art exhibition at Blender Studios, Melbourne
exhibitions
2023 Capture Magazine ‘Top Emerging Photographer’ - Top 20 Documentary Category
2022 Photo Collective Australian Photography Awards - Shortlisted People Category
2022 The Mono Awards - Highly Commendable People Category
2022 Capture Magazine ‘Top Emerging Photographer’ - Top 10 People Category
2021 Australian Photography Magazine ‘Photographer of the Year’ - Top 10 Travel Category
2020 Capture Magazine ‘Top Emerging Photographer’ - Top 20 Documentary Highly Commendable Award
2018 & 2019 Australian Photography Awards - Honourable Mention
awards
services
INDIVIDUAL PORTRAITS
COUPLE PORTRAITS
ON SET STILLS