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- Capturing the Essence of Poker: A Conversation with Photographer Damiano Nigro
Capturing the Essence of Poker: A Conversation with Photographer Damiano Nigro


At The Festival Series in Malta, the poker tables were full of energy as players competed in the Main Event, Day 2. During all the action, we had the chance to chat with Damiano Nigro, a photographer and poker fan, to hear about his story and how he brings the world of poker festivals to life through his lens.
Media: The-Rounder.net
Let's introduce the man in a proper Festival way! Damiano has been visiting several Festival Series events by now, and we are ecstatic to have him and his professionalism around. His work is really magnificent, as well as his character. Guided by very objective views, he knows perfectly how to put things into perspective. Not only is he travelling the entire world to enjoy his passion (poker), but also to share his passion (photography).
Where currently changes have been made in terms of his blog, as well as his clients such as Pokerfirma.com among others, this interview was made in 2024 during our The Festival Series Malta stop when these changes were not known yet. This article is purely based on the video interview we made with Damiano Nigro.

The Man Behind the Lens
While most attendees are here to play, Damiano Nigro is on a different mission. His primary focus is on photography during this event, while usually his personal focus is on poker. He found a great remedy to combine these topics and create true art out of it.
“Yes, I mainly shoot photography, so thanks for having me. It’s a great opportunity. The Festival is full of happenings, so that’s what I do,” Damiano shares.
Though a poker player himself, he prefers cash games over tournaments. “Tournaments are quite time-consuming, and I think I can give more value to the festivals I attend by focusing on photography, telling stories, and capturing moments. Financially, I also find more value in cash games or side events.”
The-Rounder.Net: Signature of Art by Damiano Nigro
Damiano’s passion for storytelling extends beyond photography. He runs a blog called The Rounder Net, which he started 12 years ago.
“It’s the brand I’m known for,” he explains. “I’m also a partner of The Festival, so you guys can use my photos. However, the blog itself operates independently.”
Damiano is quick to credit the organisations that have supported his journey. “My main supporter is Pokerfirma.com. They actively support my travel and photography projects. They fund my work, and I just have to send back content, so thank you to them.”


Beyond the Tables
The Festival isn’t just about poker; it’s a celebration of local culture and unique experiences. Damiano has immersed himself in the hospitality events, with one particular experience standing out.
“The brewery experience was really nice. It was a longer event with lots of educational aspects—you learn about brewing beer. We also did wine-tasting, which was fun and informative. These events highlight local culture, and that’s what I aim to capture in my blog,” he says. ''It's not about the super technical stuff, it needs to be nice and fun.''
Check out the Full Album of Damiano Nigro
The complete photo album of Damiano Nigro during The Festival Series Malta 2024 can be found through this link. Shots are taken from literally every single angle of the island, going from beautiful sceneries that Malta has to offer, to impressions of The Festival Series at Portomaso Casino, to cultural experiences during one of many hospitality events.
Not only images are available on the website of The-Rounder.net, but also blog posts with information about everything you need to know about the designated country, the event, and everything that comes with it!





Authenticity Through the Lens
Damiano’s approach to photography is rooted in authenticity. He prefers candid moments over posed shots, capturing players in their element.
“Many players are so focused on the game that they don’t even notice the camera. That’s actually an advantage for me,” he explains. “I don’t do a lot of posed photography because I don’t enjoy directing people. Players are so immersed in the game that they let me capture natural, candid moments.”
This philosophy extends to his choice of equipment. “You’ll see me with my big lens, which is usually meant for other sceneries. It allows me to stay a few tables away and capture moments of focus, concentration, or even distress.”
Dream Destinations
As someone who has travelled extensively, Damiano has a few suggestions for future locations for The Festival Series.
“I’ve spent a lot of time in the U.S. over the years. It’s amazing for poker, mixed games, and tourism. But Europe also has so much potential. Destinations like Portugal, Malta, or even mountain spots for winter sports would be incredible. Imagine a snow edition of The Festival in the Alps—that would be great!”
Full Interview: Damiano Nigro
The Final Focus
It is to say without a doubt, that Damian Nigro's passion for poker, photography, and storytelling, shines through in every frame he captures. His work is purely a homage to the memories of poker festivals, surrounded by highlights of the places he visits and the cultural aspects that come with it. Wherever Damiano goes, he always takes his camera equipment with him. It's for that sole reason that he goes hand-in-hand with having an eye for epic sceneries and moments. Damiano continues to bring the world of poker to life, one snapshot at a time!
We hope you enjoyed this article and that it gave you an insight of what it means to have a passion for poker and photography. Creating content is not always easy, but to have natural gifts in paying attention for detail, and a super nice personality, it brings you so much beautiful things!
Thank you, Damiano!







