305: Lilly Grella
Lilly Grella
305 is Fixer Magazine’s dedicated space for honoring the unique photographic perspectives that shape Greater Miami. Here, we recognize those whose work builds a lasting visual legacy, documenting the rhythms, textures, and layered narratives that define the city. These photographers capture the nuances of Miami’s everyday life—the culture, history, and character that lend it a singular identity.
We invite you to explore this curated selection, a testament to the individuals who, through their lenses, chronicle Miami’s distinct place in the world.
©lilly grella
- What first drew you to photography, and what keeps you motivated to pick up the camera today?
My Father was the first person I saw to physically pick up a camera and bring it with him wherever he went. He was my first inspiration, but what keeps me motivated to continue my path with photography will always be the evolving and ever changing dynamic of music.
-Do you have a recurring theme or story that you find yourself returning to in your work?
Color has always stayed a consistent part in my work. People often recognize my work as very bright and very colorful, and I think it is because that is how I see the world, saturated.
-Do you trust instinct or patience more when anticipating a shot?
I trust my instincts, simply because I have ZERO patience.
-What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about how you work or approach a shoot?
Honestly, most times when I’m shooting a performance, I like to dive into the moment and not even look into my viewfinder. I just hold my camera up and hold the shutter down while I’m actively watching and being present with whatever chaos is happening.
-What’s the photo you’ve never shared, and why is it still hidden?
I don’t have any hidden photos. Everything that is meant to be seen has made its debut. I am an open book.
©lilly grella
- Would you rather take a technically perfect photo with no soul or an imperfect one that feels true?
Imperfect photos that feel true will always be my favorite. Don’t get me wrong, I do love having a plan and vision for my work, but some of my favorite photos have also come from accidents.
-Every photographer has a “defining moment” behind the lens, a shot or experience that marked a turning point. What’s yours?
The first time I shot a performance at Las Rosas. It is so incredibly liberating to be in such an energetic space and to be thrown in the middle of chaos, and to get amazing images after going through blood and sweat.
-When it comes to photography, do you think time is a constraint or an ally?
Photography has never felt like a constraint for me, it has always felt like an ally because it’s a form of therapy in my life.
©lilly grella
-What’s the longest you’ve ever waited or worked for one single shot?
I have gone through an entire performance until the very end to finally say to myself “Yes, that’s the one.”
-What’s the hardest part of developing a long-term project: finding the subject, staying committed, or knowing when it’s finished?
Not knowing when a project is finished is my toxic trait. I could be in post production for weeks and still come up with ideas that I feel would improve the project, but then I would be in an endless cycle.
-Do you see yourself more as a creator of single, powerful images, or as someone building stories across a body of work?
I see myself as a creator of bodies of work. My biggest struggle is always deciding which photo is my best out of a photoshoot.
©lilly grella
- What advice would you give to photographers struggling to turn loose images into a cohesive body of work?
For me, what helps me tell stories is creating moodboards. A moodboard is like a timeline for your story, it doesn't mean you have to stick to it completely, but it gives you a foundation and leads you to the beginning and end of the vision you want to tell.
MIAMI TALENT
self portrait
I’m Lilly, an editorial and live performance photographer inspired by the energy of music and color. My work draws influence from icons like David Bowie, Joan Jett, and Lady Gaga, blending boldness, artistry, and a vibrant edge into every shot.
