Francesco Mellina was born in Polistena, in Southern Italy. He taught himself English by listening to early Beatles and Rolling Stones records before setting off, aged 16, on a tour of Europe that saw him eventually settle in Liverpool in his early 20’s.

Francesco trained in photography at Liverpool Art School and started taking photographs of bands at the famous Eric’s Club in Liverpool, recording the various subcultures in club land during the pivotal post-punk era. During this time he developed a career as a nationally recognised rock photographer, and was a regular contributor to magazines such as The Face, NME, Melody Maker, Smash Hits, Sounds, iD magazine as well as various publications around the world. Francesco worked, also, as manager of 80’s band DEAD or ALIVE guiding them to number one chart success.

In 2009 Francesco had his first major exhibition of his work spanning over 30 years at the Conservation Centre in Liverpool, part of the National Museums of Liverpool.The exhibition attracted 24.000 visitors. In the same year Francesco was awarded an Honorary Scouser Award by The Lord Mayor of Liverpool for his contribution to the musical and cultural scene of the city.

At present, his photographs continue to appear in various publications, both in magazines, documentaries and exhibitions. In 2014 Francesco had his first book published featuring a collection of Iconic images from his work between 1977 -1982.