Photography provided by Holly Chippindale
Luxury travel and fashion photographer Holly Chippindale — the eye behind our winter travel issue cover — has a vivacious love for capturing picturesque locations across the globe. From the scenic cliffs of the Italian Riviera to the islands of Greece, her work romanticizes sea-centric destinations through film stills and Super 8 videography. Here, we chat with the Bali-based creative to learn more about what inspires her work, what exciting projects are the horizon and more.
You captured our winter cover image at the idyllic Villa Scarpariello in Ravello, Italy. Can you tell us more about the decision to photograph this property?
Villa Scarpariello has been on my bucket list for a few years. I fell in love with the exterior architecture of the old building and the extraordinary pool setting. I didn’t anticipate that the umbrellas would be so scenic until I saw them in person. From there, I was inspired to shoot the postcard-perfect view from the steps above.
What sparked your creative interest in travel photography?
I’ve always loved experiencing new places and cultures. I traveled quite extensively when I worked for a fashion brand, and I’d seek out every opportunity to capture the beautiful landscapes that we were visiting. It was during these times that I felt this was what I wanted to spend my time doing and what would be the next step in my career. Travel photography has a way of being so raw. I get a particular feeling when I look at a photo from summer. It’s messy, vibrant and pure joy, but most of all, it’s real.
Which scenes are your favorite to shoot?
I don’t think this will come as a shock, but I love a bustling umbrella scene. I also enjoy capturing people in the summertime. I had a woman reach out who had spotted her mom in a photo I snapped last summer and wanted to gift a print to her as a birthday present. It was one of those wow moments when you realize how small the world can be. It made me so happy to know that I captured this nostalgic holiday memory for her.
What inspires your work the most?
The sea — I find it mesmerizing. Most of my favorite work revolves around people, sparkling light and the ocean.
Do you have any artistic goals on the horizon?
I’m hoping to spend more time in Europe this summer, as well as adding the Turkish Riviera to the itinerary. I’ll also be holding my first show in Bali this year with the Medium gallery, which I’m really excited for. Further into the future, I would love to have my own gallery that showcases my work and my furniture brand, House of Slim, and also acts as a hub where fellow creatives can come to develop their film, hold events and get inspired.
Can you tell us more about the new book you have coming out soon?
My first book, Le Mediterranean, is launching soon and will truly be my proudest achievement yet. It’s a hardcover coffee table book with film stills taken along the Mediterranean coastline. The shoot locations were produced alongside a friend of mine, Cristina Mengual, and will feature our favorite hotels across Croatia, Greece, Italy and Spain.
