Ivan Olita is a man of many talents, especially when it comes to all things camera related. Originally from Verona, Italy, Ivan began his modeling career at the age of 15 and was picked up by many of Italy’s top fashion designers such as: Roberto Cavalli, D&G, Gucci, Valentino, to name a few. After studying visual design at the Brera Academy of Fine Arts, Ivan eventually made his way to the US where he is known for his work behind the camera.
Prone to wandering and always in search of new adventures, Ivan spends his time split between New York, Los Angeles and Italy whilst balancing multiple jobs and working with big personalities like Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus and Kim Kardashian. Regardless of his daunting schedule, Ivan still finds time to reflect on what sets LA apart.
What is unique about working in LA?
Ivan Olita: To work here is a matter of finding your own balance and, especially, your own focus. While cities like New York always push you to go, see, meet, party and be in the know, LA is different: it is at your disposal without really pushing you to do things. So you can easily either get very lost or very focused.
What about LA inspires you?
IO:The personal spaces of the characters I document are always intriguing—to understand someone from the perspective of their everyday surroundings.
Do you have a favorite neighborhood?
IO: I don’t have a favorite neighborhood and I believe that’s the beauty of LA. You pick the neighborhood according to your needs that day ... or even better, your mood. I seriously like to diversify my LA experience as much as possible.
What are your 5 go-to spots when you’re here?
Soho House West Hollywood
Toshi Sushi
Chateau Marmont
El Floridita Restaurant
Beverly Hills Juice Club
When you’re not in Los Angeles, what do you miss the most?
IO: What I love about LA and that I cannot find in any other city is the silence and the contact with nature. I literally can stay working at home for a day while listening to music and taking breaks in the garden, where there is no noise pollution—no matter what. I believe this helps my brain to work much better.
Ivan Olita is a filmmaker, photographer, model, creative director and founder of BRAVÒ and contributor for NOWNESS. You can check out more of his work and stay up to date with his travels on Instagram @ivanolita.
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Alethea studied film in Philadelphia and is no stranger to beautifully composed videos. She finds Ivan’s work inspiring and hopes to someday own a camera of her own. *sigh* Follow her own creations @Ladylovesblood on Instagram or @Lady_Lovesblood on Twitter.
