I recently had another photoshoot with Marcella, this time at Buskett. It was one of those shoots that reminds me why I have enjoyed photography for so many years.

Marcella is incredibly easy to work with. We have a good laugh and, at times during the shoot, our conversation turned to philosophy, how we view the times we live in and how much times have changed. Well, in a nutshell, the atmosphere is relaxed.

AND yes, all in capitals, she knows her poses.

In fact, this isn't the first time we have worked together. This is our fourth shoot together. Marcella was one of the very first people I photographed when I started my photography journey 16 years ago.

Yes, it has been that long, and somehow it feels like yesterday.

So, while we were shooting, I decided to ask her some completely random questions. The answers say quite a lot about her. You will also have a little opportunity to get to know Marcella and, as you know by now, I love questions and questioning.

So here we go...

Coffee or tea?

Tea.

What is the one song that will always make you want to dance?

Macarena.

If you could wake up tomorrow anywhere in the world, where would you be?

Italy.

What is your biggest guilty pleasure?

Chocolate.

What is one thing you are surprisingly good at?

Photoshoots.

What is one thing you are absolutely terrible at?

Sewing.

If your life were a film, what would the title be?

Patience.

What three things would you take to a desert island?

Water, my mobile phone and a credit card.

What food could you eat every day and never get bored of?

Fish.

Are you an early bird or a night owl?

Early bird.

What is the strangest thing you have ever done?

We decided to keep this one under wraps because it is apparently that strange. So, if you meet Marcella, ask her this one yourself!

If you could have dinner with anyone, living or dead, who would it be?

Marco Mengoni

(Who the hell is he?)

What is one thing on your bucket list?

Go to Iceland to see the Northern Lights.

What was your favourite cartoon or TV show as a child?

Inspector Gadget.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

To become invisible.

Marcella even told me what she would do with her invisibility. For security reasons, I will not tell you.

What is the funniest thing that has ever happened to you?

On an aeroplane, they gave her a milk container. Because of the cabin pressure, it exploded, sending its contents all over the people sitting next to her.

I can only imagine the faces.

What is one thing people are often surprised to discover about you?

Sense of humour.

If you could swap lives with someone for one day, who would it be?

Princess Kate.

What is your perfect Sunday?

Family time and a Sunday drive.

Photoshoots are not simply about getting the perfect image. To do that, both the photographer and the person on the other side of the camera simply have to enjoy the moment, have a laugh and be open enough to let their personality come through.

Thank you, Marcella, for another great shoot — and for being part of my photography journey from almost the very beginning.

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this post, consider subscribing for future articles exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

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About the Author

Sergio Morana is an educator, photographer and writer based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com

It has now been almost two months since I shifted my website to Substack, and I am really enjoying this journey. My website now feels alive, with regular, almost daily posts. I can honestly say that I am curating my own online magazine, covering subjects that I am passionate about: photography, self-esteem, mortality and the meaning of life, personal reflection, Malta, travel, interviews, books and the environment.

I am sure that, with time, I will continue to give my website more identity. What I am beginning to realise is that, after sixteen years of photography, it is time to connect photography with the other interests in my life. For example, photography and writing about the environment, or photography and empowering others. I feel that this is part of my journey of growth.

Unless I evolve, I do feel that I, as a person, will become stuck and eventually bored with what I used to enjoy. Although being bored can, in itself, be a good teacher, being stuck in boredom for a long time is not healthy at all.

As human beings, we are made to create. Through our ideas, our imagination and our inventions, we contribute something to the world around us. This leads me to my next point.

As writers, we have a gift that can change the world through what we write. Writing throughout history has shaped societies, challenged ideas and given people the courage to voice what they believed in, even when their opinions were unpopular. Martin Luther King Jr. is one example of someone whose words helped challenge an unjust society and inspire a movement for equality. Bit by bit, words can change the world. I believe that this gives us a moral obligation to use this gift well.

As the saying goes, the pen is mightier than the sword.

In an era of individualism and greed, let us join together to bring hope to a world where hope can sometimes feel increasingly bleak. Let us inspire hearts and minds so that, as humanity, we continue to fight the noble fight towards what is truly good.

Perhaps that is where I would like this little magazine of mine to go.

I now leave you with a collection of book reviews that I have written over the past few weeks, and I wish you a good week ahead.
- Sergio Morana

Relationships are another important part of life’s fulfilment that I cannot ignore. When I think about my own life, I know that the people I love matter far more than most of the things I spend my time worrying about. Yet knowing this and living according to what I believe in are two different things. I can say that my family is important to me, but do I always give them my full attention? Do I put down the phone? Do I listen properly? Do the people I love actually know how much they mean to me? I think these are necessary questions to help me discern whether I am living the life that I want. At the end of my life, I doubt I will wish that I had spent more time answering emails, scrolling through social media or worrying about how much time I have spent worrying. I suspect I will remember people. The conversations, the laughter, the embraces, the moments together and perhaps also the things I wish I had said. So I wonder: if you knew you had very little time left, who would you want to spend it with, and how would you spend your time?

Reflecting on a fulfilled life also brings me face to face with another question: has my life made any difference to anyone else? I would like to believe that my existence has made somebody else’s life a little better. Perhaps through my work, through teaching, through friendship, through being a husband and father, through helping someone when they needed it, or simply through being there. Now I know that making a difference in someone’s life does not need to be spectacular to be meaningful. A kind word, a few hours of our time, helping someone, teaching someone something or making another person feel that they matter can be enough. When I look at my own life, I find this more meaningful than many traditional measures of success, such as becoming rich or famous.

I also want to keep growing. I find it difficult to imagine a fulfilled life in which I stop being curious. I want to continue learning, reading, writing, questioning and discovering. I want to understand myself better and perhaps understand life a little better too. I am also learning that growth does not always mean pushing myself harder. Sometimes growth means resting. Sometimes it means accepting that I cannot do everything. Sometimes it means admitting that I was wrong. Sometimes it means becoming more compassionate towards myself. I used to think that constantly pushing forward was a sign of strength. I am beginning to understand that knowing when to slow down can be just as important.

I have become increasingly aware that I also need to appreciate the life I already have. It is very easy to spend my time waiting for the next stage. I could tell myself that I will relax when work becomes easier, enjoy myself when I have more money, travel when I have more time, or pursue a dream when my responsibilities become lighter. I remember once meeting a person who told me that, as a family, they worked hard all year round, spending long hours at work, and then took a week-long family holiday. Although I admire their work ethic, I do not subscribe to the idea that we should spend most of the year simply waiting for that one week. I do believe that it is important to work hard, but I also believe it is important to spend good-quality time with the people we love every single day. There is no guarantee that the holiday will ever come. Life can change drastically in the next hour or the next day. Alas, we often take time for granted, and unfortunately, we sometimes take other people for granted too.

There will always be another responsibility, another problem and another reason to postpone living. I therefore try to remind myself that a fulfilled life must include the ability to appreciate ordinary moments: a walk, a good meal, a conversation, a laugh, a sunset, a hug, a quiet morning or simply being with the people I love. These moments can seem insignificant when I am chasing bigger things, yet they are the moments that actually make up a life.

Then there is regret. I have regrets. I have things I wish I had done differently, things I wish I had said, and opportunities I wish I had taken. I imagine that most people do. But I am learning that a fulfilled life cannot mean a life without mistakes. If I spend the rest of my life punishing myself for everything I got wrong, I will lose even more of the time I have left. I have had to learn to forgive other people, but perhaps more importantly, I have had to learn to forgive myself. I cannot change the past, but I can change what I do with it. My mistakes can either remain chains around my ankles or become lessons that help me walk differently.

When I think about what I might leave behind, I don’t imagine anything particularly grand. I would like my children to remember me warmly. I would like some of the students I have taught to remember that I encouraged them to think. I would like some of the photographs I have taken and the words I have written to survive me in some small way. But I don’t think fulfilment comes from being remembered by thousands of people. I think it can be enough to know that I mattered to a few people.

After thinking about all of this, I have arrived at a conclusion that surprised me. If today really were my last day, I think I would be at peace. Not because I have achieved everything—I haven’t. Not because I have no regrets—I do. And certainly not because I have lived perfectly—I haven’t. I think I would be at peace because I know that I have genuinely tried. I have tried to love, to learn, to contribute, to create, to grow and to become a better person. For me, perhaps that is what fulfilment means. Not having a perfect life, but being able to look back and know that I sincerely tried to live according to what mattered to me.

But perhaps the most important part of this reflection now is not my answer. It is yours.

I would encourage you to stop for a moment and ask yourself the question without immediately trying to make yourself feel better: Am I living a fulfilled life? What actually matters to you? Are you giving enough time to those things? Are the people you love receiving the best of you? Is there someone you need to forgive, or someone from whom you need to ask forgiveness? Are you still learning and growing? Are you doing things that make you feel alive? Are you appreciating the ordinary moments of your life? Is there something you keep postponing because you tell yourself that you will do it one day? If you knew that today was your last day, what would you regret not having done? And, perhaps most importantly, if there is something missing from your life, what can you still do about it?

I don’t think these questions are meant to make me—or you—feel guilty. I think they are meant to wake us up. If my answers reveal something that is missing, I still have the opportunity to change it. There are still conversations I can have, people I can hug, apologies I can make, dreams I can pursue, places I can explore, things I can create and people whose lives I can touch. The same is true for you.

Perhaps a fulfilled life is not a finished life. Perhaps it is a life in which I can look back and know that, despite my mistakes, disappointments, failures and unfinished plans, I tried to live according to what mattered. I loved. I learned. I contributed. I grew. I experienced. I made mistakes and tried again. I appreciated what I had rather than constantly waiting for something else. And perhaps fulfilment is not something I eventually discover at the end of my life. Perhaps it is something I create, one decision at a time, while I am still fortunate enough to make those decisions.

So I will leave you with the question that started all of this for me: Am I living a fulfilled life?

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Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, consider subscribing for future posts exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

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About the Author

Sergio Morana is an educator, photographer and writer based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com

Am I Living a Fulfilled Life?

Every now and then, a question enters my mind that I find difficult to ignore. Not a question about work, money, politics, or what I am going to do tomorrow, but one that forces me to look at my life as a whole. The question that my mind sometimes slaps me with is: Am I living a fulfilled life? It is not necessarily a question I want to ask myself because answering it honestly requires more than looking at what I have achieved. It is a question that asks me to look at how I have lived, who I have become, the people I have loved, the choices I have made, the dreams I have pursued and, perhaps most uncomfortably, the things I have left undone. I wonder if you have ever stopped to ask yourself the same question. If yes, that makes the two of us. If not, I invite you to read on.

I sometimes imagine what it would feel like to know that today was my last day. Not next year, not when I retire, not when I have finally achieved the things I am working towards, but today. Do not fear; it might sound pessimistic, but I find this question important because it is part of my driving force in life. If I knew that I had only a few hours left, would I feel that my life had been well lived? Would I feel that I had spent my time on the things that genuinely mattered to me, or would my mind immediately begin producing a long list of things I wish I had done differently? Would I feel grateful for the life I had, or would I be overwhelmed by everything I never got around to doing? And what would happen if you asked yourself exactly the same questions?

I would like to share something important with you that I have come to realise: fulfilment is not necessarily the same thing as success. Let me explain. I can easily fall into the trap of measuring my life through achievements because society constantly encourages me to do so. I am expected to have ambitions, set goals, earn more, achieve more, become more successful, and continually improve myself. There is nothing wrong with ambition, but I have started to question whether achievement alone can give me a fulfilled life. I could accomplish many of the things that society considers successful and still feel that something is missing. At the same time, I could live a relatively ordinary life and feel deeply satisfied with the person I have become. This makes me wonder whether the better question is not, “Have I achieved enough?” but, “Have I lived according to what truly matters to me?” What would your answer be?

So, I have spent time thinking about what actually matters to me. That is different from what other people expect from me, what looks impressive, or what social media might suggest a successful life should look like. I mean the things that would still matter to me if nobody was watching and nobody was going to applaud me for them. Family matters to me. Relationships matter to me. Learning matters to me. Creating matters to me. Helping others matters to me. Being healthy and continuing to grow matter to me. Photography and writing matter to me. There are many things I could list, but the most important question is whether I actually give these things enough space in my life. I wonder how many of us know exactly what matters to us but still spend much of our time on things that do not.

Unfortunately, I have also realised that living according to my values is not always easy. I would like to believe that I always act according to what I believe, but I don’t. I procrastinate. I get tired. Often, I become distracted. Sometimes, I choose what is easier rather than what I know is right. I have learned that being authentic does not mean being perfect. It means recognising when I have fallen short and trying again. It means being honest enough with myself to admit that there are areas of my life that still need work. Perhaps you too have values that are important to you but find that your everyday life does not always reflect them.

Part 2 will be published next week, together with a printable worksheet to help you reflect on this topic.

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, consider subscribing for future posts exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

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About the Author

Sergio Morana is an educator, photographer and writer based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com

Almost all the photos that I took during my trip to France were taken with my smartphone, and probably for my next trip I will not even take my mirrorless camera. We can easily say that today we can take a picture whenever we want, edit it within seconds and share it with the world.

So here is the €1 million question: why would anyone need a professional photo session? Why should you hire me, or anyone else, to take some photos of you?

Well, this is what I think.

After many years behind the camera, I can think of at least ten reasons.

1. You are usually the one taking the photograph

Think about the photographs on your phone. There are probably hundreds, perhaps thousands, of photographs of your children, your partner, your friends, your holidays and your meals.

But how many photographs are there of you?

I too need to ask someone to take photos of me because I am always taking photos of others. It seems I am not cute enough to be taken photos of! And when I ask one of my family members to do so, they unanimously huff and puff...

2. A photograph can be more than a snapshot

A smartphone captures a moment. These photos are great for jolting the memory, unless you are like me and, even with a smartphone, spend minutes trying to get the right angle while everyone else has already kept walking.

I believe that a professional photo session can create a moment.

The location, the light, the clothes, the expression, the composition and even the time of day can all be considered before I press the shutter.

The result isn't simply a photograph of you.

It can be a photograph about you.

3. You don't have to know how to pose

I often get this statement:

"I don't know how to pose."

I have heard this many times.

Let me assure you that you don't need to.

That's on me.

I can guide you through the session, suggest positions, movements and expressions, and help you feel comfortable in front of the camera.

Also, you don't need exaggerated poses. Sometimes simple poses work best. Your photographer will tell you what to do.

4. You might discover a different version of yourself

I have had clients who were very critical of themselves, but once they saw the photographs, they said:

"Wow. Is that really me?"

Yes.

It is.

5. You can celebrate who you are now

Immortalise who you are now with a good photo session.

You are worthy of being remembered as you are today, so stop waiting for the following:

"When I lose some weight."

"When I get fitter."

"When I have more confidence."

There will never be the perfect time.

The right time is... guess what?

Now.

Photographs are not only for the person we hope to become.

The sad truth is that one day, today's version of you will exist only in photographs and memories.

The Sergio who existed with a full head of hair exists only in some printed photographs here and there.

6. It becomes an experience

A photo session doesn't have to be an hour of standing in front of a camera and smiling.

Bring out different versions of yourself.

Go into the countryside. Bring your friends. Choose a different location. Or perhaps do what you like best.

For example, if you love cooking, why not have a photo session while you are cooking and even share your food with your photographer?

Sometimes the best photographs happen when you forget that the camera is even there.p

7. You can express something about yourself

Perhaps you want elegant portraits.

Perhaps something casual.

Perhaps something completely different.

A professional session gives you the opportunity to decide how you want to be seen.

Through a photo session, if you decide to share the photographs with others, you can even make a statement to the world.

8. Some photographs deserve to be printed

Do you have thousands of images sitting inside your phone?

How many photographs have you lost over the years as you changed your smartphone?

Photos from a photo session are meant to be more than files sitting somewhere on a phone.

Print them.

Frame them.

Put them on a wall.

Remember, there is something different about having a photograph that exists outside a screen.

A print on a wall.

A photograph in a frame.

Something you can actually hold.

9. Your family will appreciate them one day

I am going to be a bit sentimental about this, but one day your family will appreciate them.

I have met clients who have told me:

"I never got to have a decent photograph of that relative of mine who recently passed away."

Years from now, your children may not care that you thought you looked tired that day.

They may simply be grateful that they have a beautiful photograph of you.

10. Because you will never be this version of yourself again

Another important reason is this: we are constantly changing, and I believe we should constantly celebrate ourselves. A photo session could actually do just that.

You and I change.

My face has changed in the last ten years. Long gone are some of my youthful features.

Your body will change.

Your circumstances will change.

Your life will change.

A photograph freezes something that can never be repeated.

So yes, your smartphone takes fantastic photographs.

Keep using it.

Photograph your children. Photograph your holidays. Photograph the little moments of everyday life.

But every once in a while, put the phone down and let someone else take the photograph.

Because you are worth photographing.

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, consider subscribing for future posts exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

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About the Author

Sergio Morana is an educator, photographer and writer based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com

At night, while driving, we saw countless insects illuminated in the headlights of the car. When we returned to the house, we found that the swimming pool was often full of insects that had fallen into the water, particularly ladybirds. Gabriel and I took the time to remove as many of them as we could.

One might be tempted to think, Thank God we do not have so many insects in Malta. Yet that would be the wrong way of looking at it. Insects are not simply cockroaches and other creatures we consider pests. They are an essential part of the natural world. Bees are perhaps the insects most people immediately think of because of their importance in pollination, but many other insects also play important roles in ecosystems. They are food for birds and other animals, while some help pollinate flowers and crops.

This made me reflect on what I have noticed in Malta. When I was younger, I used to collect insects, and later, when I became interested in macro photography, I spent a great deal of time looking for them. Even then, I do not remember seeing the abundance of insects that I encountered in France. Today, I have the impression that there has been a decline in many species, not only during the summer but also in spring. We are fortunate that we still see bees and butterflies, but I cannot help feeling that other insects have become less common.

Of course, this is only my personal observation, not a scientific study. Still, sometimes our own experiences can make us pay closer attention to changes taking place around us.

The Tarn region, like so many parts of France, is also rich in history. The centre of almost every town we visited seemed to contain medieval buildings, while beyond the towns we found villages that looked as though they had been taken from the pages of a Tolkien book. They were simply beautiful places to explore.

Naturally, I found myself comparing France with Malta, a country I deeply love. The architecture is different, as is the way towns and villages have developed over centuries. I remember commenting to my father-in-law that this was one of the few holidays I had experienced in a region that did not seem overwhelmed by tourists. He agreed. The motorway leading towards Tarn was full of cars, yet somehow this did not seem to be reflected in the towns and villages we visited. Perhaps the visitors were spread throughout the region, but we were able to explore without feeling surrounded by crowds.

The temperature was noticeably fresher, and at one point I even wore a light long-sleeved top. During two nights, we also experienced some light thunderstorms.

Whenever I travel abroad, I often ask people whether they feel they are experiencing the effects of climate change. I asked the same question while we were in Tarn, and the answer I received was yes. This year, people told me, had been drier than usual, and they felt that the levels of some rivers had been getting lower over time.

I found this interesting because, despite what people told me about the dryness, I was still impressed by the rivers we saw flowing through the region. Earlier in our travels, I had seen the Danube at a time when its water level appeared dramatically low. In Tarn, by comparison, the rivers we encountered seemed to contain a good amount of water. Yet I must be careful not to draw scientific conclusions from what I saw. A river’s water level depends on many factors, and one region’s rivers cannot simply be compared with another’s on the basis of a few observations. What I can honestly say is that, to my eyes, the rivers of Tarn appeared healthy and full of life, even though local people were concerned about increasingly dry conditions.

This brings me back to climate change. I believe that there needs to be a global effort to respond to it. It is easy to deny a problem when acknowledging it would require us to change. Change often asks us to give up convenience, habits, and, sometimes, a degree of selfishness. That is perhaps why the subject can become so uncomfortable.

My own way of thinking about it is simple. We should prepare for the worst while working for the best. The question is not only what havoc could climate change bring? We should also ask, what actions can we take now that might reduce the chances of that worst future becoming reality?

We cannot know every detail of what lies ahead, but uncertainty should not always be an excuse for doing nothing. If the possible consequences are serious, then surely it is wiser to act responsibly where we can.

Finally, these days in France were a good time well spent as a family. They gave us the opportunity to spend more time with Steph’s family and, just as importantly, to be together away from the different activities, routines and responsibilities that so often fill our lives.

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, consider subscribing for future posts exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

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About the Author

Sergio Morana is an educator, photographer and writer based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com

For years, my website was hosted on a number of different platforms. I was always looking for a space that felt right—a place where I could easily share my work, upload my photographs, and post regularly without the process becoming too complicated. I especially wanted something that would allow me to upload directly from my mobile phone whenever inspiration struck. Most of these platforms were either too complicated to use or their fees were too high.

Then I found Substack.

To be honest, it is a platform that almost seems too good to be true. It is free to use and, for a minimal fee, I was able to link my domain name, www.sergiomorana.com, to my Substack account.

Finally, I feel as though I am curating my own little online magazine.

After just over a month here, I have found myself posting about the different things I am passionate about: photography, reflections about life, personal experiences, and whatever else happens to inspire me along the way. Somehow, having everything in one place has made me want to share more regularly. I also have the sense that I am both the editor and the creator of posts about the things that are important to me.

Today, for example, I am posting some photographs I took with Sarah at the beginning of summer.

For the time being, however, all my outdoor photo shoots are on pause because of the intense hot weather we have been experiencing. Malta in summer can be beautiful, but sometimes the heat makes spending hours outdoors with a camera simply too difficult.

So, until the weather becomes a little kinder, I will continue looking back through the photographs I have already taken, sharing stories, reflections, and the things that matter to me.

Perhaps that is what I am enjoying most about Substack. I no longer feel that I simply have a website. I feel that I am slowly building something—a space that reflects the different parts of who I am and the things I love, while sharing them with a community of people who, just like me, want to learn, create, and perhaps inspire one another along the way.

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, consider subscribing for future posts exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

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About the Author

Sergio Morana is an educator, photographer and writer based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com

A good start to loving yourself is learning to say nice things to yourself. Does this sound hard? Don’t worry if it does. At 46, I am still figuring out life. The way I see it, we are all making our way through this journey together. Whether you are twenty years old or sixty years old, if you admit that you are still figuring life out, that makes two of us—and most probably, many others feel the same way even if they do not say so.

Yet what I am writing about today has been tried and tested in my own life, and because it helped me, I am sharing it with you. Perhaps these words might help or inspire you too. Just like builders, let us start together by constructing a beautiful cathedral that represents us. As tools, I suggest that you get a diary and a pen. Let us start by digging our foundations, which are made up of our internal dialogue. Through this article, I would like us to focus on the internal dialogue that starts when we begin the day, when we look at ourselves in the mirror, and that continues throughout the day: when we make a mistake, when we apologise, and when someone compliments us.

Read more

On Thursday, I met George at a coffee shop in Hamrun. When we met, we greeted one another with a warm hug. At sixty-two, he still has a full head of light-brown hair and expressive eyes. When he smiles, I feel that his smile is synchronised with his heart. But when he is listening, his eyes become a deep, penetrating stare that tells me he is really paying attention. No wonder George was so well liked by our students, who sought his help whenever they needed guidance.

We settled at the coffee shop and I ordered an Americano with milk, while George had an iced coffee with caramel flavour. We both had a ham and cheese toastie. Both the coffee and the toastie were good, but because the door of the coffee shop was open, flies kept coming in. They were immensely annoying because, as we spoke with our hands, we constantly had to brush them away from our heads, our food and our coffee.

Although we had an interview to do, I felt that there was so much we had to catch up on that I could not simply jump straight into asking questions. So, while we ate and drank, we started sharing how we had been since I had last seen him before December. George is a very humble person. In fact, when I told him that I needed his expert advice from a counsellor’s point of view for my interview, he immediately rejected the idea that he was an expert. “I am no expert at all,” he said. I laughed at that. My reply to him was that he was also a very humble person because I know that George is a very intelligent person who mulls over every word before uttering a sentence.

We found ourselves chatting and updating one another about many things. First, he told me about photography. Since retiring, he had pursued photography, telling me about the course he had followed and how he now enjoys street photography. Both George and I are, in a way, observers of people. I do it from a sociological point of view, while George does it from a psychological one. So now there is also photography that connects us. At one point, while I was sipping my Americano, he stopped me and said, “I would take a photo of that old man crossing the road.” I stopped halfway through my sip and agreed with him. “You’re right. That man has character. With his bent back and cap, he would make a really good photograph.” George told me that he does not use just any camera. He uses the camera that belonged to his late brother, Chris, who passed away some years ago. Knowing George, I don’t think he would exchange that camera for anything in the world because of its sentimental value.

I told George that I felt I was at a crossroads with photography. Although I still wanted to pursue it, I felt I needed to change the kind of photographs I take. I told him about my decision not to take on any more wedding photography. In my free time, I don’t want to add more stress to my life. I want to do things that give me enjoyment and fulfilment. I told George that life at school can already be so demanding that I don’t want my free time to be filled with more stressful things to do. I also told him how much I have been training and how much training has helped me feel better. George asked me how it had helped me. I told him that I am so motivated not just to build a healthier body, but that weight training has another purpose in my life. Even when I am tired, I don’t allow myself to stay in bed for too long. I am eager to get up and train.

We also updated one another about our kids. His boys, whom I have known since they were very young and I was in my twenties, are now grown men. Both have found work and have acquired the life values of George and his wife, Anna. They are both kind, hardworking boys who are always there to support and help others. In my heart, I wondered how my own children would be doing when they reached the same age, when they would be in their twenties.

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, consider subscribing for future posts exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

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About the Author

Sergio Morana is an educator, photographer and writer based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com

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Today is our last day in Rome. After all the walking we did during the week, my body is aching and I find it difficult to get out of bed. Steph, my wife, woke up first and once she was up, the rest of us followed suit.

As we were living in a rented apartment, I gathered all the items left in the fridge and prepared breakfast using whatever remained. It felt important to use everything we had rather than waste it. I do not like wasting food on principle. Still, I could not ignore how much waste we had produced. Every day, we filled a small bag with rubbish, some of which could go into the recycling bag while other things simply had to be thrown away. Even though I was in Rome, I made it a point to separate the waste.

A question came to my mind: How many resources do we use as a single family every day? I don't know, but even if I knew the amount, I would have to multiply it across millions of families. What does that become? Will there be enough left for those who might come five hundred or a thousand years from now? What will future generations say about the people who lived in 2026?

This trip stirred a deep and, yes, unsettling thought in me. I loved visiting Rome. I loved visiting its countless historical sites. Yet I realised something. Empires rise and fall. Civilisations move forward, often believing they are permanent. Today, the United States, China and Russia are considered modern superpowers. And yet history tells us an important story. Everyone thinks they are invincible, that they will last forever. They don't.

What I find unsettling is that, as humans, we imagine we are the centre of the universe. Yet we don't understand that this is simply our time. It will come and go, and eventually we will all be forgotten. I too will be forgotten. There is a certain sadness in that thought. Out of the billions of people who have lived, only a tiny number are remembered, usually those who shaped history, for better or worse. Figures like Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Jean Parisot de Valette, Horatio Nelson, Winston Churchill, Joseph Stalin, Adolf Hitler and Steve Jobs.

After breakfast, we packed our luggage and made sure everything was secure with a padlock. I booked the taxi. Before leaving the apartment, we walked one last time towards the centre of Rome. What a beautiful city it is. I have heard different opinions about Rome. Some people say it is nothing special, while others are regular visitors to the city. I belong to the latter category. I will surely come again.

The weather was warm and beautiful. Steph found a shop where she could try different flavours of tiramisu. Tiramisu is my wife's culinary weakness. Alice had her own small mission: to find a particular pesto that used to be imported to Malta but was no longer available. Unfortunately, she did not manage to find it. Gabriel had no plan, so he stayed with me while I enjoyed taking some photographs.

At around 12:30, we returned to the flat to prepare for departure. The taxi was scheduled for 13:30. But at 12:45, the app showed that the driver was already one minute away. It felt too early. We rushed. We gathered our bags, put on our shoes and went downstairs. A driver was waiting. I told him with a smile, "Sergio, airport," and he nodded. We loaded the luggage and left.

Then, at 13:15, I began receiving messages from another driver saying that he was waiting for us on our street. I felt confused. What had just happened? Had we taken someone else's taxi? Well, we were on our way to the airport, and that was what mattered. I stared at my phone, unsure what had happened, and decided to let the thought go. The company managing the app would sort it out.

Thankfully, when we arrived at the airport, the driver did not ask for any additional payment. Everything seemed settled. A few minutes later, I received a notification. I had been charged five euros for not showing up to the 13:15 booking. It was all rather confusing, but in the end, what mattered was that we were at the airport. It had been a beautiful holiday. I enjoyed Rome, and we created some beautiful family memories.

The reason I started writing this series is quite simple. I grew frustrated with searching online for coffee shops that are open in the morning, only to be overwhelmed by endless advertisements and far too many options. So, I decided to create my own list—a personal collection of cafés that I have visited and genuinely enjoyed. This way, instead of trying to remember where I have been, I have a ready-made guide that I can always refer to and I am sharing this guide with you.

My criteria are always the same. If a coffee shop appears on this list, it means I enjoyed the experience. My usual order is an Americano with a splash of milk and a toasted sandwich, which gives me a consistent way of comparing one café with another. Most importantly, every place featured here offers good quality at a reasonable price, making it somewhere I would happily recommend to others.

Updated on 08/09/2026

La Crema - St. Julian’s

I am definitely not an early-morning riser.

But today, we had to wake up early because my daughter had basketball training at 6:30 a.m. in St. Julian’s. So, rather than seeing it as an early start, I decided to look at it differently. My motivation was some time to spend with my wife and son, the opportunity to take a few early-morning shots around St. Julian’s, and, obviously, an Americano with milk and my usual ham and cheese toast.

We just needed to find a coffee shop that opened early.

After dropping my daughter off, we went for a stroll along the coast. Mind you, the stroll was not exactly relaxing. At that time of the morning, the pavement seems to belong to the joggers, so you had better move out of the way!

At around 7:00 a.m., we found La Crema open.

As soon as we walked in, I noticed the counter filled with beautiful-looking pastries—croissants, tiramisu, and much more. I stuck to my usual order, although I must admit that some serious willpower was required.

Service was quick, and the lady serving us greeted us with a smile, which is always a good way to start the morning.

My son went for the tiramisu, which he managed to down in a couple of seconds. My wife ordered the Egg & Toast, which was huge and which she really enjoyed. The scrambled egg was served on a slice of brioche, and it looked as good as it tasted.

I also enjoyed my ham and cheese toast. However, if I go again, I think I might try the eggs on toast.

And I will test my self-control by not taking one of those sweets.

Although, perhaps I shouldn’t make promises when my willpower is weak!

Sometimes an early morning isn’t so bad after all—especially when there is good coffee, good food and a little time together.

Americano: 5/5 ☕️
Ham & cheese toast: 4/5 🥪

Cumbo Café & Bistro, Balzan

Word of mouth is very powerful, and that is how I discovered Cumbo Café & Bistro.

Sometimes I have meetings in Balzan, and I used to go to a different coffee shop. However, some of my colleagues kept telling me that if I was in Balzan, I had to try Cumbo.

Today was the fourth time I have been there, and this place never disappoints.

When I arrived with my friend, the place was packed. We could have stayed on some chairs outside, but it was far too hot. Luckily for us, two tables became available and we managed to get a seat inside.

I ordered my usual Americano and a toasted ham and cheese sandwich. My friend had a cappuccino and a ftira.

First, the warm drinks arrived. My Americano tasted good, as always. Then the toast arrived—and what a toast!

It was made from slices of Maltese bread, with a generous serving of melted cheese and ham inside. It was fantastic.

My friend was eating his ftira, which also looked delicious. The bread had been warmed, and I could hear him crunching his way through it.

Then came the real test.

At the counter, there was a display full of tempting pastries. It was a moment of truth.

Was I disciplined enough to say no to tasting one?

I was eyeing the croissant with pistachio cream and the imqaret.

I passed the test.

But as the Terminator says:

I’ll be back.

Americano with milk: 5/5
Toasted sandwich: 4/5
Value for money: 5/5

Alfred's Bakery Café - Naxxar

This morning, my wife and I wanted to visit a particular coffee shop in the centre of Mosta. However, finding parking proved impossible, so we continued driving towards Naxxar. Luckily, we found a parking spot directly in front of Alfred’s Bakery Café.

It had been a while since I had wanted to try this coffee shop, and today we unexpectedly ended up there. I needed a lot of willpower not to order one of the many delicious pastries displayed at the counter. Everywhere I looked, people were enjoying cakes, croissants, and other treats, which made the temptation even stronger.

In the end, I stayed loyal to my usual order. However, I have a feeling that this coffee shop will receive another visit from me soon — this time, I might finally give in and taste one of their famous pastries!

Americano with milk: 5/5
Toasted sandwich: 5+/5
Value for money: 5/5

The Dove & Olive Café & Bistro - Ħaż-Żebbuġ

This is one of my regular spots whenever I want to meet friends without leaving my village. I enjoy walking from my house to the Ħaż-Żebbuġ square, where I can relax over a good coffee. They also have a varied menu, offering plenty of choices to suit different tastes, and the ambience is warm and inviting.

One of the things I love most about Ħaż-Żebbuġ is that, after enjoying a good coffee, you can wander through the old part of the village, admiring its beautiful streets, narrow alleys, and historic houses. Each corner of the village core seems to have its own story to tell, making the walk just as enjoyable as the coffee itself.

Americano with milk: 5/5
Toasted sandwich: 4/5
Value for money: 5/5

Extra idea: After your morning coffee, grab your camera and explore the beautiful old streets of Ħaż-Żebbuġ!

Square - Pama

Square, which is situated at PAMA. My wife and I regularly go there during the summer because our son, Gabriel, has football training at the Mosta Ground. Before running an errand, we often stop there to enjoy my usual Americano with milk, my wife's cappuccino, and a toasted sandwich.

Whenever I need to wait for Gabriel, I sometimes stay there, open my laptop, and get some work done. The staff at Square are always friendly, and the service is quick, with orders arriving promptly. I also like to combine a visit to Square with a shopping trip around PAMA afterwards.

Americano with milk: 5/5
Toasted sandwich: 4.5/5
Value for money: 5/5

Extra idea: After your morning coffee, grab your shopping bags and do your shopping at Pama.

Papa’s - Siġġiewi

Papa’s is not just a restaurant; it also serves an excellent Americano and a delicious toasted sandwich. You can choose to sit either indoors or outside, making it a pleasant spot whatever the weather.

What really surprised me was the bill, which I think would be hard to beat. This definitely won’t be my last visit for a coffee. Who knows? Next time I might even try something else from the menu!

Americano with milk: 5/5
Toasted sandwich: 4.5/5
Value for money: 5+/5

Extra idea: After your morning coffee, grab your camera and explore the beautiful old streets of Siġġiewi!

If you enjoyed the above article you can also read:

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, consider subscribing for future posts exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

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About the Author

Sergio Morana is an educator, photographer and writer based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com

“Steve!” I called out.

He stopped and greeted me with his signature warm smile and a classic “Aw, sieħbi!” He was wearing a hat against the sweltering heat—one of the hottest summers on record—before removing it to reveal a completely shaved head. I’m still getting used to it; anyone who has known Steve over the years remembers his iconic dreadlocks, which were such a core part of his visual identity.

I’ve known Steve for over 25 years. Today, beyond capturing a few photos, I wanted to sit down and record a deeper conversation with the man behind the persona—because with Steve, there is always far more than meets the eye.

We grabbed a table at Papa’s Restaurant in Siġġiewi Pjazza. Over an Americano for me and a cappuccino for Steve, with only an hour to spare, I fired off my first question: “How do you balance wearing a mankini in an Adult Panto with wanting to make a serious impact on society?”

For comedian, writer, and director Steve Hili, the answer is simple: silliness isn’t an escape from reality—it’s a lens to examine it. This was our starting point for a wide-ranging conversation touching on free speech, political “whataboutism,” stage fright, and men’s mental health. Steve offers a surprisingly grounded philosophy on what it means to make people laugh in an increasingly absurd world.

1. Free Speech and the “Don’t Be a Dick” Doctrine

In an era dominated by culture-war discourse, Steve occupies a nuanced middle ground. He firmly rejects the idea that comedy is under siege, but he equally dismisses the notion that comedians can hide behind jokes to escape consequences.

“I think you can say whatever you want, but also I think everything has a consequence,” Steve explains. “I can’t come here and say that Sergio committed a crime because that’s a lie, and then hide behind, ‘Oh, I was just joking,’ right?”

I nodded in agreement. To Steve, comedy is inherently self-disclosing. What a comedian puts on stage directly reflects their internal worldview—unless, as he quickly adds, they’re stealing material, in which case they’ve surrendered their credibility anyway.

When it comes to modern social awareness, he offers a refreshing, simplified defense of being “woke”:

“Lots of people nowadays attack the world for being very woke. I think being woke is actually quite a good thing... My definition of being woke is: don’t be a dick. Really, that’s kind of it.”

2. Influences: From Chappelle’s Social Satire to Mayall’s Puerile Energy

Have you ever been to one of Steve’s adult pantos or a show he has written or directed? If not, you are truly missing out. Having photographed almost every one of Steve’s productions since the very first adult panto, I regularly find myself having to lower my camera because I am laughing so hard my eyes are watering.

Steve’s unique style—a blend of sharp social commentary and unapologetically childish physical comedy—mirrors his own comedic heroes. When reflecting on the performers who shaped his taste, two figures stand out: Dave Chappelle and the late British comic actor Rik Mayall.

“I love Dave Chappelle,” Steve says. He admires Chappelle’s fearless approach and believes that no subject should be off-limits.

On the other end of the spectrum is Rik Mayall, the wild, energetic pioneer of British alternative comedy best known for The Young Ones and Bottom. Having spent part of his childhood in England immersed in British television, Mayall’s chaotic, larger-than-life performance style helped legitimize the idea for Steve that being childish on stage isn’t just fun—it’s an art form.

3. Punching Up, Puerile Humour, and the First Rule of Comedy

Steve embraces his taste for silly, physical humour. While he loves a good sex joke, he attributes that preference partly to a strict Catholic upbringing and being “obsessed with wanting a girlfriend at 16.” Yet Steve remains adamant that even when poking fun, he maintains a ethical boundary regarding power dynamics:

“Punching down is when the subject of the joke is someone who is in a position of less power than you... I prefer my punchlines to be about people who are in positions of power.”

Whether he’s addressing migrant issues or local politics, the core rule remains unchanged. “If you’re a comedian, the first rule, forgetting everything else, is: is the joke funny?” Steve says. “Then you can decide: does it fit my worldview?”

This balance of ridiculousness and social commentary was front and centre in his show Politically Erect, which featured sock puppets engaged in explicit acts with politician characters during an election campaign:

“People watching this are laughing because it’s ridiculous—they’re seeing a sock puppet and an actor doing ridiculous things on stage. But really, what is underneath here? A very cutting message of basically the construction industry and a politician being in bed with each other.”

I challenge anyone—especially those fiercely loyal to one political party or another—to attend one of Steve’s shows. Stepping out of the theatre afterward is a true test of whether you are as open-minded about politics as you think.

Lately, Steve has shifted from producing the adult panto to a new confession show, Naughty Malta, which uses humour to strip away intimacy taboos:

“We laugh not at it being x-rated. We laugh at the fact that sometimes sex is funny.”

With a smile, he adds: “Laughter breaks down a lot of barriers.”

4. The Stage, the Craft, and the British Circuit

Transitioning between different performing environments revealed stark differences in crowd dynamics for Steve—particularly when comparing Maltese audiences with those in the UK.

While Maltese crowds are generally eager to laugh and engage, English audiences present a tougher room. “In England, it’s almost like people will fold their arms, sit back, and be like, ‘Okay, make me laugh.’ You have to prove yourself very quickly.”

He admits to early missteps when starting on the UK circuit, notably making excuses to avoid four-hour drives to tough gigs. Looking back, he views those hard rooms as essential training grounds:

“If you just go on stage, you say your jokes, everyone laughs, and everyone goes home, you haven’t learnt really a lot. The harder shows make you a better comedian.”

Off-stage, Steve describes himself as far less intense than his stage persona. “Steve Hili on stage is maybe like Steve Hili in real life times five—it’s me, but bigger.” And while solo stand-up brings intense pre-show tension—because “there’s nowhere to hide”—it also delivers an unmatched high once the room settles:

“Once you get the first laugh, everything kind of fades away. It feels like the audience is in your hand... That feeling is great. It’s very addictive. That’s why people keep doing it.”

5. Facing Offense, Death Threats, and Thick Skins

I asked Steve a question I often ask myself: how does he handle audience backlash?

Steve looked at me, shook his head, and made it clear that he is unbothered by general offense. “Everyone has the right to be offended,” he says. “If I’m comfortable with what I’m saying, if you get offended, I don’t really mind.”

He then shared an experience where he received a death threat from an audience member in a London club over a self-deprecating story about having an asthma attack during an intimate moment. The patron incorrectly assumed the joke was mocking asthmatics rather than Steve’s own panicking.

Despite the threat, Steve refused to cut the bit:

“Nobody should bully me not to say a joke that I’m happy saying.”

At the same time, Steve rejects the bravado that many performers put on regarding criticism. “I am not as thick-skinned as I make out to be,” he admits candidly. While he ignores bad-faith complaints, feedback from people he respects hits home. “If it’s correct criticism, then you think, ‘Ah, shit, this guy’s got a point. Okay, so I could have done that better.’”

6. Media, Mischief, and Radio as a Companion

It was time to discuss a chapter we both shared: radio. While I eventually stepped back to focus on photography, Steve continued working across various stations. He remains very opinionated about the state of radio in Malta, describing a landscape crippled by caution and commercial fear.

With streaming services rendering traditional radio obsolete for basic music playback or traffic updates, Steve argues that radio’s true value lies in personality and companionship:

“What is the point of me listening to a radio station just so I can hear some songs and somebody telling me what the time is...? It’s boring. I don’t need radio for that... Traditional media needs to be a little bit more mischievous.”

He recalls running segments like “Destruction Tuesdays” on XFM—where listeners submitted gifts from ex-partners to be smashed live on air—as examples of the playful, unpredictable energy radio currently lacks:

“If people are tuning in because they’re like, ‘I want to see what this guy’s saying because he really annoys me,’ that’s kind of fine—and you need to keep the annoyed people annoyed so that they keep coming back.”

7. The State of the Nation: A Country at 12 Years Old

When I asked Steve what he would focus on if he were to rewrite his book State of the Nation today, he placed his hands behind his head and frowned. Unlike his quick, direct responses to earlier questions, he paused, exhaled, and explained that his primary target would be collective national immaturity, political tribalism, and the public’s misunderstanding of freedom of speech.

He pointed out a glaring cultural hypocrisy: Maltese citizens will freely criticize local issues, but instantly react with intense defensiveness if a tourist makes the exact same observation.

“If something bad happens, we’re allowed to say it’s bad. But if a foreigner mentions that they were here on holiday and there was a power cut, we go back to defending it... It feels like as a country, we haven’t grown up.”

Comparing public discourse in Malta to the reactionary nature of social media, Steve notes:

“Malta is a nation where sometimes we feel like we’re 12 years old... everybody feels very tribal, but nobody is mature enough.”

This political tribalism leads directly to “whataboutism,” where real domestic challenges like power outages are dismissed simply because the opposing political party previously faced similar issues.

Yet, when asked about Malta’s greatest strength—after jokingly offering “pastizzi tal-piżelli”—Steve points to the very thing that can heal this divide: community spirit.

“I think a blind spot that we’re not seeing is that this sense of community should actually reach out and utilize new arrivals... If we manage to integrate them more into our community, as a community we could become unstoppable.”

8. Mental Health, Catholic Guilt, and the Power of Humour

Behind the fast-paced comedy is a deliberate effort to manage personal health and family life. Steve regularly sees a therapist, noting that “mental health is part of health,” and actively protects weekly family rituals—like Saturday afternoon sofa naps with his child—to stay grounded.

He also acknowledges the invisible pressure involved in creative production, where his wife serves as an essential partner through the entire process:

“Nobody sees the suffering that you get to to get to that final product... My wife suffers with me through the whole thing.”

Unlearning a deep-seated “Catholic guilt”—the nagging sensation that taking a day off work is somehow wrong—remains an ongoing battle. But a heightened awareness of mortality has pushed him to prioritize downtime and holistic well-being.

This commitment to mental health led Steve to shave his head to raise funds for men’s mental health initiatives. For him, humour is one of the most effective tools for breaking through male isolation:

“Humour is a way of opening doors for everything and for everyone... A simple funny meme to a mate you haven’t seen for a long time—that’s a way of reaching out, starting a conversation, and starting the process of looking after guys.”

And with that, it was time to wrap up the interview; the hour had flown by. I took a few final shots of Steve, and we agreed to meet again in the future for another round. Walking back to my car, I realized that the Steve many people know—the man in the mankini, the provocateur, the comedian—is only one part of the picture. Behind the laughter is someone constantly reflecting on responsibility, community, mental health, and the strange contradictions of modern life. Whether on stage or off it, Steve Hili remains exactly what good comedians have always been: sharp observers of the human condition.

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, consider subscribing for future posts exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

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About the Author

Sergio Morana is an educator, photographer and writer based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com

You can also read: Best Coffee with a View in Malta: My Search for the Perfect Café

“Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars.”
— Kahlil Gibran

This morning I woke up feeling genuinely rested. It felt like I had won the lottery. A good night’s sleep seems to grow more precious with every day that passes. I am a light sleeper, and my nights are usually fragmented, interrupted by a trip to the bathroom or by the smallest unexpected noises. So when I manage to sleep uninterrupted, it feels wonderful and is worth noting in my journal.

Today Alice took part in a scouting event at Għajn Tuffieħa camp site. It formed part of the selection process for Maltese scouts hoping to attend the 26th World Scout Jamboree, scheduled to take place in Gdańsk, Poland, from 27 July to 6 August 2027. By then, Alice will be around fifteen years old. She has already experienced something similar when she attended the Essex International Jamboree in Chelmsford, England, an event held every four years since 1927. That three-week experience was, for Steph and me, a significant test of trust. Even though we had complete confidence in the leaders accompanying her, our minds were filled with endless “what if?” questions. What if she got hurt? What if she could not find food she liked? And yes, I even wondered, What if she gets kidnapped? Thankfully, none of those fears became reality. Alice returned home safely, and the only disappointment she experienced was having to leave her new friends behind and come back home to us.

Over the past week, I made another attempt to reduce the time I spend on social media, particularly Facebook and Instagram. Not having TikTok has removed at least one layer of temptation. Still, despite my intentions, I am failing at this challenge rather spectacularly. A single notification is often enough to pull me into an endless loop of scrolling. Social media, in many ways, resembles an addictive substance. So I must admit something uncomfortable: I am addicted to it. My mind craves the constant stimulation until a disturbing or meaningless post suddenly snaps me back to reality, forcing me to confront the time I have just surrendered. That is usually the moment when guilt sets in and I realise that, once again, I have wasted time I can never get back.

I have read that stepping away from phone addiction and allowing dopamine levels to reset can create a deeper sense of presence and calm. Mental clutter begins to dissolve, making space for greater clarity and a more grounded awareness of the present moment. I have also read about minimalist phone applications designed to interrupt the dopamine-driven cycles that keep people hooked. Yet that approach does not work for me. I genuinely appreciate many of the opportunities that smartphones and the internet make possible. I enjoy reading, learning, creating photographs, writing, and staying connected through them. I love my smartphone. That is precisely my problem.

Still, I shall not give in. I intend to challenge myself once again to reduce my social media use. And since I enjoy setting personal challenges, I will add another one. I will begin a dietary plan aimed at losing seven kilos by July while keeping to a daily intake of 2,300 calories, as outlined in my health programme. I find myself looking forward to this challenge, curious to discover whether my self-discipline and willpower can finally match my good intentions. Starting has never been my problem. Staying consistent over time remains the true test.

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, consider subscribing for future posts exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

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About the Author

Sergio Morana is a photographer, writer, and educator based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com

I love drinking an Americano—always with a splash of milk and a sweetener. I also enjoy a good ham and cheese toast and, every now and then, a full English breakfast. Over the years, I have found myself searching for cafés that combine great coffee, delicious food, beautiful scenery, and a relaxing atmosphere. If you have ever wondered where to enjoy a memorable coffee break in Malta, perhaps this series will help you discover your next favourite spot.

How it all began! One of the simple pleasures my wife and I share is stopping for a warm drink after running errands. It does not matter whether it is winter or the middle of summer; there is something comforting about that first hot drink of the day.

More often than not, we pair our coffee with a ham and cheese toast. For it to be perfect, the cheese has to be beautifully melted inside.

The setting is just as important as the food and coffee. Sometimes I want to sit overlooking the sea, while at other times I prefer the peaceful Maltese countryside. On occasion, I simply choose a café because of its warm atmosphere or stylish interior. A great café is about more than what is served on the table—it is about the entire experience.

In this ongoing series, I will review cafés, coffee shops, and breakfast spots across Malta. My reviews are based on my own experience and focus on the things that matter most to me: quality coffee, good food, value for money, service, atmosphere, and photographic appeal. This series is not about criticising businesses. If a café does not appear here, it simply means I have not visited it yet or that it did not leave a lasting impression.

Whether you are a local looking for your next favourite coffee shop or a visitor planning a holiday in Malta, I hope these reviews help you discover some wonderful places.

So, let’s begin.

Updated 9/8/2026

Singita – Għajn Tuffieħa

Singita at Għajn Tuffieħa is definitely one of my favourite places in Malta to just switch off for a while. And if you are going there, bring your camera—or at least make sure your phone has enough battery and storage. There are some beautiful photo opportunities around here.

After having a good coffee, you can also go for a lovely walk along the coast, especially if you head towards the Qarraba peninsula.

There is, however, one small problem with Singita, and unfortunately for me, it is quite an important one.

The breakfast menu is not exactly what I would normally go for. I sat down thinking that I would have a simple ham and cheese toast. Nothing complicated. Just a ham and cheese toast.

But no.

The closest thing they had was avocado toast, which really isn’t my thing. I politely asked the waiter if they could make me a traditional toasted sandwich instead.

The answer was a very definite no.

He said it with the kind of certainty that reminded me of a teacher telling a student that there would be no discussion about the matter.

Oh well. At least I tried!

In the end, I settled for a plain Americano, while my son Gabriel went for a croissant that looked much more enjoyable than my coffee.

But, to be fair, the reason I keep coming back to Singita has very little to do with the food.

It is the view.

Sitting there with a coffee, looking out towards the beach, the rocky coastline and the Mediterranean, is difficult to beat. There is something very relaxing about being there early in the morning, before the place gets too busy.

Would i go back there? Yes, I would definitely go back—even without my beloved ham and cheese toast.

In fact, I will probably stick to our little family ritual: an early morning swim in the bay, followed by a walk up to the restaurant as soon as it opens at 9:00 am.

Quick Ratings

☕ Coffee: 5/5 — A good Americano and exactly what I needed.

🥪 Food: N/A — No ham and cheese toast. Other breakfast choices.

🌅 View: 5+/5 — One of the best views you can get in Malta.

💶 Value for Money: 5/5

😊 Service: 4/5

📸 Photo Opportunities: 5+/5

Apple’s Eye - Golden Sands

Both Indoors and Outdoors

It’s the weekend, which means it’s time to update this post with yet another great spot where I enjoy a good Americano with milk and a classic ham and cheese toast. Today, I went to Apple’s Eye at Golden Bay—a place our family truly loves visiting.

It isn’t just a great coffee shop; it’s also a wonderful restaurant offering a wide variety of dishes. We arrived around 3:30 PM today, and the place was bustling with people. Most were enjoying mouth-watering pizzas with rich, stretchy mozzarella.

Usually, we prefer going in the morning to order a delicious breakfast of scrambled eggs and coffee. Sometimes, we even treat ourselves to a tasty Black Forest waffle—simply delicious!

This is one of those special spots that is fantastic to visit year-round. In the summer, you can enjoy breakfast and then head down for a quick dip in the sea. In the winter, the view remains breathtaking, and it serves as the perfect starting point for a scenic coastal walk.

Ratings

☕ Coffee: 5/5 - A well-prepared Americano that hit the mark—exactly how I like it.

🥪 Food: 4.5/5 - Ham & Cheese Toast: Loved the melted, flavorful cheese!

🌅 View: 5+/5 - Without a doubt, one of the best coffee views in all of Malta.

💶 Value for Money: 5/5

😊 Service: 5/5

📸 Photo Opportunities: 5/5

A dream spot for photography lovers, featuring breathtaking coastal scenery.

⭐ Overall Rating: 5/5

Ta’ Rita - Lapsi

My Search for a Coffee Shop with Air Conditioning

After a week of taking care of Gabriel, who had been sick, and with yesterday finally being his first day without a fever, I wanted us all to go out together and celebrate with breakfast. We also wanted to celebrate the return of my daughter Alice who had just come back after a week in Sicily for her basketball training camp.

I wanted to find somewhere with air conditioning because today’s outdoor temperature reached 43°C, which is certainly not normal for this time of year. I searched online for a suitable coffee shop, but there was simply too much information and too few useful results. I decided to leave the decision until later, and then, as usually happens, I knew exactly where to go: Ta’ Rita at Lapsi. It is not only a beautiful place on the inside, but the view outside is equally stunning, overlooking the sea and the island of Filfla.

It is one of my favourite spots. Not only do they serve an excellent Americano and a delicious ham and cheese toast, but whenever I have eaten there for lunch or dinner, the food has always been top-notch.

So I called to make a reservation because it is usually full, but they told me there was no need to book. Perfect.

When we arrived, we were told that they were only serving a breakfast buffet. I was a little disappointed because I couldn’t order my usual Americano and ham and cheese toast. I asked everyone if they wanted to stay, and with a nod from everyone, we decided to do just that.

Thank God we did.

What a fantastic buffet it was! There were sausages, scrambled eggs, bacon, croissants that I could fill with any flavour I wanted (although it was a pity there was no Nutella), freshly baked focaccia, and, of course, an excellent Americano with milk. My wife also thoroughly enjoyed her cappuccino. Then it was time for some cakes.

It was definitely worth the money, especially since it was not expensive at all. In fact, it is rare to find a breakfast buffet of this quality at such a reasonable price.

Would I return, even if there were no ham and melted cheese toast?

Without a doubt, yes.

However, next time I will definitely call beforehand to ask whether they are serving the breakfast buffet or my beloved ham and cheese toast.

Ratings

☕ Coffee: 5/5
A well-prepared Americano that was exactly how I like it.

🥪 Food: 5/5
No Ham and Cheese Toast but the breakfast buffet did the trick!

🌅 View: 5+/5
Without a doubt, one of the best coffee views in Malta.

💶 Value for Money: 5/5

😊 Service: 5/5

📸 Photo Opportunities: 5/5
A fantastic location for photography lovers, with stunning coastal scenery in every direction.

⭐ Overall Rating: 5/5

Step In – Wied iż-Żurrieq

If you are searching for a café with one of the best sea views in Malta, Step In at Wied iż-Żurrieq should definitely be on your list.

We visited at around 10:00 a.m. on a Saturday morning, hoping to enjoy a relaxing coffee overlooking the Mediterranean. The location exceeded our expectations.

The view across Wied iż-Żurrieq is spectacular and, in my opinion, one of the finest places in Malta to enjoy an Americano and a ham and cheese toast while taking in the scenery. Whether you are meeting friends, spending time with family, or simply enjoying a quiet moment on your own, this café offers an unforgettable setting.

My Ratings

☕ Coffee: 5/5
A well-prepared Americano that was exactly how I like it.

🥪 Food: 4/5
I ordered the ham and cheese toast. It was enjoyable, although I would have preferred the cheese to be melted a little more.

🌅 View: 5+/5
Without a doubt, one of the best coffee views in Malta.

💶 Value for Money: 5/5

😊 Service: 5/5

📸 Photo Opportunities: 5/5
A fantastic location for photography lovers, with stunning coastal scenery in every direction.

⭐ Overall Rating: 5/5

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, consider subscribing for future posts exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

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About the Author

Sergio Morana is a photographer, writer, and educator based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com

I offer personalised photo sessions where you can choose between an outdoor location or a studio setting. While a studio session has its own charm, there is something truly special about photographing outdoors. Malta may be a small island, but it offers an incredible variety of breathtaking locations, each with its own character and story.

You may choose a historical setting, such as the narrow streets of Mdina or the beautiful Three Cities, where every stone wall carries centuries of history. You may prefer an urban atmosphere, with locations such as Valletta or Sliema, where modern life meets the Mediterranean Sea. Perhaps you would like a natural setting, from the golden sands of Għajn Tuffieħa and the coastline of Marsaskala to the peaceful countryside of Buskett or Chadwick Lakes.

Malta also has many beautiful gardens that provide wonderful backgrounds for photography, including places such as Ġnien tal-Milorda and San Anton Gardens.

My photography sessions are designed for anyone who wishes to preserve a special moment in time: individuals wanting personal portraits, models building their portfolios, couples celebrating their journey together, pre-wedding sessions, or families marking important occasions such as Holy Communion, Confirmation, or other milestones.

If you feel nervous or uncomfortable in front of the camera, do not worry. Many people feel this way at the beginning. My role is not only to take photographs but also to guide you throughout the session, helping you relax and enjoy the experience. By the end of the shoot, many people discover that having their photograph taken can actually be an enjoyable and memorable experience.

If you are planning a visit to Malta, or if you are already living here and would like to create beautiful memories through photography, feel free to get in touch. I would be happy to discuss your ideas and help create photographs that you will treasure for years to come.

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, consider subscribing for future posts exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

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About the Author

Sergio Morana is a photographer, writer, and educator based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com

Paraguay had not come simply to play football. Heavy tackles, flying elbows from Andrés Cubas and Matías Galarza, and constant psychological games all seemed designed with one purpose: to unsettle France’s captain.

Yet, as tempers flared and players confronted one another, the cameras captured something unexpected. Amid the heat and hostility, Kylian Mbappé’s smile immediately caught my attention.

When the decisive moment arrived in the seventieth minute, his composure never seemed to leave him. Standing over a tournament-defining penalty, Mbappé paused briefly before sending goalkeeper Orlando Gill the wrong way. Even after the final whistle, when a frustrated Gill threw the ball at his back, Mbappé responded with another smile before later saying:

“We can also get our hands dirty. They probably thought we were going to show up in tuxedos, but we were ready.”

If I admired him before, my admiration only grew. I found myself thinking, This is a personality worth observing. This is someone worth studying. How does a footballer operating at the very highest level remain so composed, so grounded, and still wear such a genuine smile under immense pressure?

The Evolution of a Superpower

Watching him made me think about something much bigger than football.

When Mbappé burst onto the scene with Monaco in 2016, his smile seemed to reflect the pure joy of a teenager playing the game he loved. As his reputation grew, however, so did the pressure. During his years at Paris Saint-Germain, he lived under constant media scrutiny, enormous expectations and, at times, public tensions within the club. Like any elite athlete, there were moments when frustration showed.

Watching him today, however, I cannot help noticing that he has evolved. Whether it is the result of maturity, experience, or simply learning to cope with extraordinary pressure, he appears far less reactive than he once was. To me, his smile now seems less like youthful excitement and more like quiet emotional composure.

Against Paraguay, I did not see a player ignoring the intensity of the occasion. I saw someone who refused to let others dictate his emotional state. Whether intentional or instinctive, that composure seemed to steady his teammates while quietly denying his opponents the reaction they were hoping to provoke.

Beyond the Pitch: A Lesson for Everyday Life

One of the most valuable things we can do is recognise qualities we admire in others and intentionally try to develop them in ourselves. For me, Mbappé’s smile offers a lesson that reaches far beyond football.

Many of us live under constant pressure. Deadlines, financial worries, family responsibilities, health concerns, and the expectations we place upon ourselves can slowly drain the enjoyment from the very things we once loved.

We all experience our own “Paraguay moments”. They are the days when life seems determined to test our patience, when criticism comes from every direction, or when setbacks make us question ourselves. Our first instinct is often to become defensive, frustrated, or discouraged. I know it certainly is for me.

Mbappé’s example suggests a different approach.

A positive attitude is not about pretending that problems do not exist. It is about refusing to allow those problems to control our state of mind.

His example reminds me of three valuable lessons.

Positivity protects performance. When our minds remain calm, we think more clearly, make better decisions, and allow our abilities to emerge naturally instead of being overwhelmed by anxiety.

Joy can be surprisingly powerful. A genuine smile often removes the power that anger, criticism, or intimidation seeks to have over us. I definitely need to practise this more often.

Protect your inner world. We cannot control every situation around us, but we can choose how we respond to it. Our circumstances may be difficult, yet we still have a say in the attitude we bring to them.

Final Reflection

France’s victory reminded me that remaining positive is not a sign of weakness. It requires remarkable emotional strength and courage.

By refusing to let pressure steal his joy, Mbappé demonstrated a quality that many of us strive for in our own lives. Resilience is often quieter than we imagine. Sometimes true strength is not found in responding with anger or aggression, but in remaining calm when others expect us to lose control.

Perhaps that is the greatest lesson of all. Life will always bring difficult moments, but we can still choose the spirit in which we face them.

So, the next time life throws one of those “Paraguay moments” our way, perhaps we can remember Mbappé’s smile and choose calm over anger, composure over reaction, and joy over frustration. It may not solve every problem, but it might just change the way we face it.

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, consider subscribing for future posts exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

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About the Author

Sergio Morana is a photographer, writer, and educator based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com

I feel that the closer the relationship, the sharper the sting. Criticism from strangers is easier to dismiss. Criticism from parents, teachers, colleagues, a spouse, or even my own children carries far greater weight. To be completely honest, the harshest critic I have ever known has often been myself.

Over the years, I have realised that not every type of criticism affects me equally. When I was younger, I was sensitive about my appearance, but that no longer troubles me. What still affects me today is criticism of my work because I genuinely try to give my best, and criticism of my relationships because I invest my heart in the people I love. Judgements about my personality can also hurt, especially when they come from people who judge before they even try to understand me.

One incident from my teenage years has remained with me. When I was a teenager, I became fascinated by insects and spent countless hours studying them. One day, an assistant Scout leader, noticing my enthusiasm about the subject, turned to another leader and seriously asked, “Is he normal?” The other leader replied that I was. They probably forgot the conversation within minutes. I did not. At a time when my self-esteem was already fragile, those few words quietly reinforced the fear that perhaps I was different in the wrong way.

Words are remarkably powerful. They can be as sharp as a samurai sword. Words said often outlive the people who speak them.

Yet not every criticism I have received has been unfair. Some of it has shaped me for the better.

Soon after my wife and I married, I had to complete government paperwork that would allow us to reclaim part of the VAT we had paid on our wedding expenses. It was worth several hundred euros. Weeks passed. Then months, and I still did not fill in the necessary papers. The deadline came and went, and I still had not completed the forms.

When my wife asked me if I had filled in the papers, I replied that I had completely forgotten about them. She was understandably furious. At the time, I felt criticised and became defensive. Looking back, however, she was right. My procrastination had cost us money and created unnecessary stress. Fortunately, I found a kind government employee who accepted my late application despite it being late, and we eventually received the refund.

That experience forced me to confront something deeper my procrastination. By time I came to understand that my procrastination was not simply laziness. Often, it came from fear. The tasks I delayed were usually the ones that intimidated me most. Once I recognised this pattern, I began deliberately tackling the unpleasant jobs first. Slowly, I changed. Sometimes criticism is uncomfortable because it exposes something we already know about ourselves but would rather avoid.

Psychology helps explain why criticism affects us so deeply. Our brains naturally give greater attention to negative experiences than positive ones, a phenomenon psychologists call the negativity bias. From an evolutionary perspective, remembering danger increased our chances of survival. Unfortunately, the same brain that once protected us from predators now tends to replay a single critical comment while quietly forgetting ten genuine compliments.

I discovered this long before I knew there was a psychological explanation. Around the age of nineteen, I realised that my mind was becoming like a fish tank filled to the brim with recollections of disappointments, criticisms, and failures. To counter this, an idea came to mind, so I began writing a diary that focused almost entirely on the positive moments of each day. It was not an attempt to ignore life’s difficulties. Rather, it was my way of teaching my mind to notice goodness as well as pain. Looking back, I believe that simple habit strengthened my emotional resilience.

Of course, not all criticism comes from the same place. Healthy criticism is offered with the desire to help another person grow. Destructive criticism aims to shame, humiliate, or establish superiority. Researcher Brené Brown has often written that shame rarely produces lasting growth. People change far more effectively when they feel supported than when they feel humiliated. I have come to believe she is right.

Communication is one of the most powerful tools human beings possess. Words can become instruments that wound as deeply as a knife, yet they can also become instruments of healing. A single sentence can destroy someone’s confidence, while another sentence spoken with kindness can change the direction of an entire life.

Photography taught me this lesson. When I entered the world of photography in 2010, I joined a local photographic society where members regularly submitted their work for judging. Some judges were excellent teachers. They pointed out weaknesses clearly while encouraging photographers to improve. Others seemed more interested in displaying their own ego than helping others develop.

I remember hearing comments such as, “I wonder why this person ever decided to become a photographer,” or, “Even my ten-year-old son could take a better photograph.” Coming from an educational background, I found such remarks deeply troubling. As teachers, we know that comments like these are unthinkable. Criticism delivered with contempt does not educate. It humiliates. For a long time, I did not dare submit an image on social media because, within me, I could still hear those same voices scoffing at my photographs: “Even my ten-year-old son could take a better photograph.”

As I got to know the members, I saw very different reactions. Some shrugged the comments off. Others became angry and left the society. Some quietly stopped participating because their confidence had been crushed. Others simply ignored the comments and laughed them off. I admired that.

In time, I took a leap of faith and tried to separate the message from the messenger. If the technical advice was valid, I accepted it and used it to improve. The harsh tone belonged to the judge, not to me.

Working as a deputy head has shown me another side of criticism. Because I oversee discipline, I regularly find myself in situations where no decision satisfies everyone. Some educators believe I am too soft. Others think I am too strict. Some pupils fear me, while others enjoy talking to me. Occasionally, parents become angry and insist they will defend their child regardless of what happened.

Those conversations still affect me, but less than they once did. Experience has taught me not to react immediately. Instead, I reflect afterwards. Was I fair? Did I act with integrity? If the answer is yes, I let the criticism go, although it may still sting. If I recognise that I could have handled something better, I apologise for my mistake. Even if I have to apologise to students, I do it, and I learn from it.

Writing on my diary has perhaps been the greatest exercise in self-reflection. Years ago, I wrote almost exclusively about positive experiences. Today, I write about everything, including my failures, disappointments, and mistakes. As I write, my thoughts become clearer. Emotions that once felt tangled begin to make sense. Modern psychology supports this experience. Expressive writing has repeatedly been shown to help people process difficult emotions, organise their thoughts, and develop greater emotional well-being. I have found this to be true in my own life.

Training has also helped, though perhaps not in the way people expect. It has become a healthy outlet for stress and anxiety. Each workout reminds me that growth happens slowly through consistent effort. The same principle applies to emotional strength.

My faith has also offered perspective. A close friend often reminds me that even Jesus, who spent His life serving others, was criticised, rejected, and ultimately crucified. If the most loving person in history could not escape criticism, why should I expect to? That thought does not remove the pain, but it helps me place it in perspective.

Today, when someone criticises me, I try to pause before reacting. If the criticism is fair, I make the necessary changes. If it is unfair, I gradually allow it to fade into the background. I no longer wish to carry unnecessary burdens.

When I was younger, I often became offended and sulked. I wasted precious emotional energy replaying conversations in my mind. Age has taught me that peace of mind is far more valuable than winning imaginary arguments.

If someone struggles with low self-esteem, my advice would be simple. Do not process criticism alone. Share it with someone wise whom you trust. Consider carefully who is offering the criticism. Not every opinion deserves equal weight. There is little value in allowing immature or unkind people to define your worth.

I also believe we ask ourselves the wrong question far too often. We spend so much time wondering whether we are good enough for others that we rarely stop to ask whether those people are good enough to influence our lives. Would you willingly accept life advice from someone you neither respect nor admire? If not, why allow their criticism to shape your identity?

One lesson has become increasingly clear to me. Many people are quick to criticise, yet remarkably few are willing to roll up their sleeves and become part of the solution. I hope never to become one of those people. If I see something that can be improved, I want to contribute rather than merely complain.

Self-esteem cannot be built upon the shifting opinions of others. It must rest upon honesty, personal growth, meaningful relationships, and the quiet confidence that comes from knowing we are becoming better than we were yesterday.

Criticism will always be part of life. The question is not how I face it, but whether I will allow it to define me or refine me as a person.

All Photos I took in when we visited London in 2024

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, consider subscribing for future posts exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

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About the Author

Sergio Morana is a photographer, writer, and educator based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com

Above: Sherese Photo Session 2026

A Decade in Photographs

One of the things I love most about photography is that it allows me to study people.

People have always fascinated me. I am captivated by the uniqueness of every individual, by beauty in all its forms, and by the world that surrounds us. Photography has taught me to slow down and notice the details that might otherwise pass unnoticed.

I first met Sherese several years ago during a photo shoot for a local clothing shop. The photographs were intended to promote the shop’s clothing, but something else happened that day. We immediately connected. It was clear that we shared a love for creativity and the arts.

Sherese has a genuine appreciation for photography. She has a wonderful eye for capturing the places she visits, and even her sense of fashion reflects her artistic personality. She has a style that is uniquely her own.

Over time, we came up with an idea that excited both of us. We would meet once every year for ten years and create a new photo session together. The goal was simple: to document the passing of time.

In a way, I am documenting Sherese’s life.

Over the years I have photographed her graduation, moments with her family, and portraits that simply capture who she is at that particular stage of her life. Looking back through the collection, I have noticed one feature that has remained remarkably constant. Her peaceful smile. To me, it reflects the gentle and kind person she has always been.

This project has also reminded me of something that affects every one of us.

We all change.

If I am honest, change has never been easy for me. I sometimes find it difficult when people I care about grow in different directions or when friendships naturally become less close. Yet life continually reminds us that change is inevitable. Our personalities develop, our priorities shift, and our relationships evolve.

Our appearance changes too.

If you were to visit our home, you would find a photograph of my wife and me taken many years ago. Looking at it today, the first thing most people would probably notice is my hair. Or rather, the lack of it! As my son likes to joke, I now look more like Mr Clean than the person in that photograph.

Time quietly leaves its mark on all of us.

Perhaps that is why I find this project so meaningful.

Although Sherese and I only meet once a year for these sessions, there has always been a sense of ease and friendship between us. I like to think that this is reflected in the photographs we create together. They are not simply portraits. They are small chapters in a much longer story.

We still have a few more years before our ten-year project comes to an end.

And who knows?

Perhaps, when we reach that final session, we will decide to begin another decade all over again.

Reflection Questions

1. If you could document one person in your life through a photograph every year for the next ten years, who would you choose, and why?

2. When you look back at photographs taken several years ago, what changes do you notice most: your appearance, your circumstances, or the person you have become?

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, consider subscribing for future posts exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

About the Author

Sergio Morana is a photographer, writer, and educator based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com

I am not referring to a quick snapshot taken with a mobile phone. I am talking about photographs created by someone who has intentionally taken the time to capture you at your best. There is a difference between taking a picture and creating a photograph that tells a story.

[Below: Photo session with Julie]

Why do I believe this?

Because time passes far more quickly than we realise. A professional photo session captures a version of you that will never exist again. Our bodies change, our style evolves, our children grow up, and the seasons of our lives quietly pass by. A photograph preserves a moment that can never be recreated in exactly the same way.

There is another point that I believe is important. Professional photography is for everyone, regardless of age or gender. In my experience, it is usually the women who arrange a family photo session. They are often the ones who recognise the importance of preserving memories. The men, on the other hand, sometimes arrive reluctantly. At the beginning of the session, they may appear uncomfortable, serious, or even slightly irritated.

Then something interesting happens. Once they realise that I am not there to make their lives difficult or force unnatural poses, they begin to relax. They laugh more easily, interact naturally with their family, and before long, the camera almost disappears. In fact, there have been many occasions when it was the men themselves who started suggesting ideas for different photographs before the session ended. That transformation is one of the parts of my work that I enjoy the most.

[Below: Photo session with Lucy]

Finally, I would like to end this reflection with a simple suggestion.

Print your photographs.

Do not leave your memories hidden away on a mobile phone or computer. Choose the photographs that mean the most to you and display them in your home. Our homes are often filled with objects that reflect our tastes and interests, yet few of them tell our story as powerfully as photographs of the people we love. Those images remind us not only of who we are, but also of the relationships and moments that have shaped our lives.

In our own home, we have created what we call our family memory room. It is filled with framed photographs collected throughout the years. Every image reminds us of a different chapter of our lives. It is also the room where I keep my elliptical trainer. While exercising, I often find myself looking from one photograph to another. Without even realising it, my thoughts drift back to those moments. Each frame unlocks a memory, a feeling, or a conversation that might otherwise have faded with time.

That, to me, is the true value of photography. It is not simply about taking pictures. It is about preserving a moment that time can never give back. That is why I believe everyone deserves to have a professional photo session.

Reflective Questions:

• If you could preserve just one season of your life in photographs, which season would it be, and why?

• When was the last time you looked at an old photograph and found yourself reliving a memory you thought you had forgotten?

[Below: Photo session with Sarah]

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this reflection, consider subscribing for future posts exploring photography, life, and the stories behind the moments we often take for granted.

About the Author

Sergio Morana is a photographer, writer, and educator based in Malta. Through photography and writing, he explores life’s meaningful moments, personal growth, and the stories that connect us.

📷 Photography: Holy Communions • Confirmations • Portraits • Family Sessions • Events

📧 sergio.morana@gmail.com

🌐 www.sergiomorana.com