Born To Shot
Filippo Nativo, an Italian Creative Director and Photographer based in Toronto, Canada, has crafted a dynamic career at the intersection of fashion and advertising. A graduate of the Fashion Institute of New York, Filippo began his professional journey as a stylist, leaving his creative imprint on fashion scenes across Italy, Japan, France, Belgium, and the United States.
In 1993, Filippo’s career reached a turning point when he joined Leader Pubblicità, one of Italy’s leading advertising agencies. This opportunity allowed him to refine his skills as both a Creative Director and photographer. By 2000, he had relocated to Milan, where he collaborated with renowned photographers, mastering a range of photographic styles, including fashion, food, product, and advertising.
Filippo’s journey took an international turn in 2013 when he moved to Canada. This change of scenery inspired a fresh approach to his craft, blending his expertise in fashion photography with a deepened focus on portraiture. His collaboration with the Italian Contemporary Film Festival (ICFF) in Toronto led to a new milestone: the creation of a photography and cinematography school, set to launch in June 2024.
Filippo’s style is shaped by the golden age of photography and iconic masters like Albert Watson, Peter Lindbergh, Koto Bolofo, Bruce Weber, and Annie Leibovitz. Known for his preference for black-and-white photography, Filippo embraces an “organic” and minimalistic approach, relying on non-intrusive editing techniques to preserve the authenticity of his images.
His extensive experience in post-production, including curating the post-production process for Helmut Newton during a shoot at the Florence Convention Bureau, informs his current focus on refinement over manipulation.
Filippo’s work has been widely recognized, including a four-page feature in the special 50th Anniversary edition of Vogue Italia. With a relentless curiosity and respect for the natural beauty of his subjects, he continues to bridge his fashion roots with his passion for photography, standing out as an artist who skillfully integrates timeless aesthetics with modern innovation.
“Life is not about significant details, illuminated a flash, fixed forever. Photographs are.”
—Susan Sontag