Known as the father of the super-models and who changed the old look of the fashion magazines, Peter Lindbergh had a unique way of making portraits. But, first let’s talk a little about him.
This German photographer and film marker established his own terms to the fashion industry from the beginning. He was taking the pictures that he enjoyed with the style of women he loved, women with purpose. He was inspired by the ladies he saw in the art school, wearing jeans and trainers. For that reason, until the early 80’s he declined to work for American Vogue magazine where only wealthy wives wearing a lot of make up and jewellery had space.
One day, Liberman (American Vogue) asked Lindbergh why he keep refusing to work for them? Lindbergh expressed that he is not inspired by the women in that magazine. So, Mr. Liberman gave Peter the freedom to do what he wanted, he even could choose the editor of Vogue that he pleased and the models that represented the women he loved. Lindbergh came back with the photos of models in white shirt. Liberman was surprised, in a bad way, and replied: “I don’t know what to do with those photos”. It was clear that they couldn’t work together, and Lindbergh left.
Less than six months later, Anna Wintour arrived at Vogue, saw the pictures of the models in white shirts and gave Peter Lindbergh the cover and twenty pages in the American Vogue. That is considered the breaking point in fashion magazines.
Peter Lindbergh is fascinating. I adore him. I can keep talking about him, but I don’t fancy to write…that’s why I am a photographer! Therefore, let’s go straight to describe some important points of his style.
Peter Lindbergh’s Photography Style
Lindbergh grew up in a working class family in a very industrial town. Therefore, his photos show unrefined places or materials. Even, his black and white pictures have a heavy grain texture.
The loves women with no make up, although in fashion he couldn’t do that completely.
He grew up in austerity. Therefore, we are not going to see a lot of jewellery in this photos. Everything is simple and honest.
Another signature in his photos is the lack of smiles. In his portraits, he wanted to connect with the real person and the smile takes you away from that goal, he pointed in an interview.
Lindbergh considered clothes a part of a story to tell. Clothes were not the main subject in this photos.
He loved women in all the stages of their lives. He embraced women aging.
“If photographers are responsible for creating or reflecting an image of women in society, then I must say, there is only one way for the future, and this is to define women as strong and independent. This should be the responsibility of photographers today: to free women, and finally everyone, from the terror of youth and perfection.”
My Mission for 2022
Inspired by Peter Lindbergh, I strongly desire to take pictures of women and men in their 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond! You must exist in pictures. Your age make you more interesting, more stylish and wiser. Let’s celebrate your life and wisdom.
So, are you a Peter Lindbergh person? Because, definitely I am. I love him and miss him, very much.
Photography Sessions with me
This moody black and white style works perfect for family photos, branding and portraits.
Moreover, this is my go to option to register some memories of my family, not only because it is timeless. The images have character with elegant simplicity.
Of course, my clients choose their portraits with this style without hesitation.
Book your free consultation to know me and my working process.
Have a Happy New Year.