Daniela Rettore is an Italian fashion and editorial photographer with a portfolio that can be described a chic, poetic, and charming. “I have been intrigued by the art of photography as early as 14 years old when I received my first camera as a birthday present,” Daniela says. “I can still recall taking pictures of every single guest to a party, and ever since then, I have been dedicating my professional career behind the lens.”
As a photographer, Daniela works well with models as a result of her own successful modeling career. She ended her modeling career at the age of 30 but knew she wanted to continue to pursue a career in photography. “I told myself that I wanted a job that I was happy to wake up to every morning, so I decided to become a professional photographer,” she recalls. “My very first job as a photographer was shooting model tests. Within the first year, I completed more than 100 portfolios/test for models. It was a great way to learn how to approach photography using models and fashion.”
Although Daniella’s imagery comes across as effortless, what we see is the end result of much preparation. She first spends time developing concepts and tapping into her creativity. She may flip through a magazine, scroll through Instagram, but then comes up with something that is original and that she feels is hers. “Nothing comes casually on a fashion shoot. There’s a combination of planning control, programming, scouting,” she says. “Everything must be perfected, from the idea, model, styling, makeup, hair, to a model’s attitude, lighting, etc. If any of those things doesn’t work, the entire shoot is spoiled.”
Daniela makes use of natural light for the majority of her photoshoots, giving her images a soft yet sophisticated feel. “I started my career using natural light. There’s nothing I don’t understand about light,” she says. “I can shoot with every kind of light. From the harsh sun in a sunny day at the Maldives to a foggy day in winter in north Italy. But over the years I have become quite good with studio light too.”
Daniella says her creativity is inspired by everything she sees around her. “My eyes are always wide open to the world around me. Even when I walk my dog, I’m looking, and I see things. Then I tell myself that I need to come back with my camera and a model.”
Daniela is working on several projects that she will share in September. “At the moment, I can’t say anything, but please stay tuned.”
Follow Daniela on Instagram @danielarettore_photographer to see more of her work.
