San Francisco-based photographer Nicolò Sertorio was recently awarded the American Photographic Artists grand prize in the Fine Art Category for 2010.

Tell me about your winning photograph.

It’s a black-and-white portrait of a woman’s back. It’s a close-up and is abstract in nature, so it looks like more of a landscape. It’s part of an exploration series.

How did you get the perfect shot?

I already knew the concept of the series, which is about form, figure, shape and composition, but I collaborated with the model, Lauren. We got comfortable with each other and explored lighting, etc.

What are your main influences and inspiration?

I ask myself this all the time. It’s about being inspired but also being affected by other people’s work. I grew up for the most part in Italy, so on a subconscious level, I was influenced by the Renaissance and turn-of-the-century European paintings.

How does it feel to win?

It’s very subjective. I’m putting myself out there — my soul and vision. It can be scary as it’s on an international level. Top industry experts chose my photo, so it’s a wonderful form of recognition, and a reassuring pat on the back.

Where can people see your work?

At www.photonicolo.com and www.apanational.com. I also recently won first prize in the Altpick Awards Photographic Series section, so I will also have a selection of photos from my Passages series at the Format Photo Festival in Derby in the United Kingdom.