Della Bass became interested in photography while living in Japan in the mid 90s. Inspired by French and Italian films from the 1960s, she pursued a career in photography.
Moving to Milan for 5 years and having traveled to France, Germany, Holland, Spain, Denmark and the Czech Republic -I think it’s safe to say she is well traveled. Della enjoys having each shoot based around a central theme, whether it be a story, book or film.
In 2001, she moved to New York City and continues to call the big apple home.
Where are you from?
I grew up in Sydney Australia although I was born in Capetown, South Africa
How does style factor into your life?
I’ve always loved clothes and fashion. My style tends to be a little more casual and relaxed. I wear a lot of Rag and Bone, Zadig and Voltaire, Splendid and J Brand. I love previewing all the new trends on my shoots.
How long have you been into photography and when did you get started?
I’ve been a photographer for 15 years now. I started in Sydney, Australia but moved to Milan shortly after. I remained there for 5 years developing my portfolio and then moved to NY, where I currently reside.
What do you do before a shoot?
I usually prepare for a shoot by researching the theme of the shoot as much as I can. I look at relevant books, movies and if its a location shoot, I may scout for days to find the perfect location. I also like to be involved in the casting wherever possible. I spend a lot of time meeting models and trying to find the perfect model for the shoot. I always have reference images with me but I am a pretty spontaneous shooter.
How would you describe your style of photography?
My style of photography is very whimsical, dreamy and romantic. I shoot a lot on location and wherever possible I work with available light. If we have a particular scenario planned and I see something that works better I have no hesitation in changing the shot. For me it’s about capturing a beautiful moment rather than having a shot completely planned out.
You have a variety of imagery on your website: you have travel, portraits, lifestyle so what is your favorite kind to shoot?
I love shooting models with a beautiful landscape as a backdrop. Iceland is on my list of places I want to shoot. One of my favorite shoots was for C Magazine in Santa Ynez, California. It’s a gorgeous old western town and made the perfect backdrop for the fashion.
If you could photograph anyone or anything who would it be and why?
It would be Marloes Horst. She has one of the most incredible faces and I’d love to do a beauty story with her.
Where do you see your path leading you in a couple of years, five years or more?
I am looking to collaborate with a videographer on all my fashion shoots. I’m also interested in directing some fashion videos. I’m coming up with some of the concepts now and will start filming in the next few months. I will also be spending some more time shooting in Paris and London.
Can you tell us a little about your current projects.
I have been working on campaigns for Eberjey and Off Broadway shoes in Miami. I’ve also shot a beautiful editorial for Fashion Gone Rogue and I am planning an editorial in Montana. I have some incredible locations and I’m putting together a team at the moment.
