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