Vincenzo Grillo – Sipping coffee around the world
Vincenzo Grillo, Italian fashion photographer – How many times do we wish someone we love were there to share that particular moment with them? And how often do we resolve to send them a picture, symbolically erasing the distance? There is no doubt that pictures have become one of the best ways to communicate, to say something. This is why more often than not, a picture represents the human who performed the action of taking the photograph. Our pictures are us.
Think about it: maybe you’re on the West coast of Calabria, where the sunsets are always magical: the big, orange sun sliding down, as if to hide underneath the surface of the sea. The colours are so intense and warm. Even the Stromboli volcano, witnessing this moment every day, looks like it wants t to celebrate Calabria’s beauty, urging her as if she were a shy girl, to go out into the world and proudly show her gifts. Continue reading clicking the button Next >
I first noticed Vincenzo on a Fendi business jet from Paris to Rome, where we would enjoy what could be easily considered the best fashion show of all times (click here to know more). I finally met him and we had a chat at Pasticceria Marchesi in Milan.
Vincenzo, can you tell us something about yourself?
Well, I was born in Vibo Valentia 31 years ago, into a family of photographers – both my father and my older brother were photographers themselves, so it’s easy to see how and why I fell in love with this art. When I was 21 I moved to Milan to pursue a career in the field, joining my brother who had already begun a collaboration with a photographers agency. I still work with them, covering the various fashion weeks that take place everywhere in the world. Particularly, I like Street Style and I work for fashion houses’ adv campaigns.
Which fashion houses?
Fendi, Versace, Pinko, Liu-jo, Patrizia Pepe, Furla…
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Do your Calabrian origins influence how you work?
There is no doubt that my motherland was my starting point, in every sense. I seize the occasion to go back home every time it presents itself. A couple of years ago I managed to move the campaign of a swimwear brand from Miami: the photo shoot was originally meant to take place in LA, but we ended up on the Coast of the Gods in Calabria. It turned out to be terribly expensive for me too, but I felt it was important to include Calabria in the pictures – I believe this episode fully explains how much Calabria means to me and how it actively influences my work.
How has your style evolved through the years?
Thankfully, I got better in time. When they first offered me to take pictures of Street Style, I was one of the few professionals working with that particular fashion style and I felt I wasn’t quite up to the task. I felt so self-conscious. Years went by and today it feels natural to me.
Are there places of Milan you loved particularly?
I like the Navigli area and Brera. The modern Gae Aulenti Square is pretty popular these days, but I admit I prefer taking pictures of Milan’s old area.
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What do you think of contemporary Italian fashion?
Traveling the world following the various fashion weeks, I can tell you Italian fashion has an amazing potential. Italians are more creative, our artisans have special skills. I’ve recently discovered that the seamstresses behind a foreign brand were Italian. Basically, it’s always a good moment for Italians.
Is there something you’d like to say to young photographers who’d like to go pro?
First and foremost, be yourself. Try as hard as you can and pursue your vision. And travel, a lot. Travelling was an education for me.
Could you name the most beautiful women and men you’ve worked with?
Naomi Campbell, Rihanna, Adriana Lima. Joan Small. Nick Wooster and David Gandy.
This picture testifies that Mr Grillo has definitely embraced Stromboli volcano’s love for Calabria. You can guess his motherland here, proudly permeating the image.
Read our interview with Filippo Callipo here
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