Drawing Inspiration.
In the world of fashion and portrait photography, we often look to the industry’s giants for direction and motivation. Their indelible marks on style, composition, and storytelling transcend eras and continue to spark creative fires within up-and-coming artists.
Two notable figures who have influenced modern visual culture are Helmut Newton, Peter Lindbergh, and - representing for me the modern, adventures fashion style, Lindsay Adler. Their distinct approaches have shaped my perspective on photography and encouraged me to push boundaries in my own work
Helmut Newton: Bold, Provocative Elegance
Dramatic and provocative imagery
Emphasis on strong, empowered femininity
Utilization of bold contrasts in black and white
Helmut Newton’s photographs are instantly recognizable for their unapologetic, avant-garde style. He artfully harnessed sexuality and power, crafting images that are both chic and subversive. Newton’s mastery of black-and-white photography and striking contrasts lends his work an arresting, cinematic quality.
When I shoot editorial portraits, I recall Newton’s fearless compositions. I’m drawn to exploring bold lighting setups and sharp contrasts—often experimenting with strong highlights and deep shadows for a sense of drama. Newton also showed me the importance of telling a compelling story within the frame: a simple pose can become an iconic statement if it resonates with confidence, sensuality, and artistry.
My old lady in the age of 99
Peter Lindbergh: Raw, Cinematic Storytelling
Natural, unretouched aesthetics
Timeless black-and-white portraits
Emphasis on emotional authenticity
Peter Lindbergh revolutionized fashion photography by shifting attention from glossy perfection to raw, human narratives. He believed in revealing the personality of his subjects, capturing their emotions and vulnerabilities without excessive retouching. Lindbergh’s cinematic storytelling approach—especially in black and white—redefined editorial fashion spreads in the 1980s and beyond, propelling the supermodel era to new heights.
Lindbergh’s influence is felt whenever I aim to capture the genuine side of a model. Rather than chasing perfection, I endeavor to highlight the subject’s unique features and emotions. I often incorporate more natural lighting setups and slightly underexposed frames to maintain the moodiness that’s reminiscent of Lindbergh’s iconic images. Whether in color or black-and-white, the focus remains on creating an intimate narrative that draws viewers into the subject’s world.
I still use film cameras and old lenses like the sigma 24-70mm 2.8 APO on my Nikon F4. In contrast to the modern mirrorless Z models and fast lenses like the 85mm 1.2.
Lindsay Adler: Modern Flair and Dynamic Creativity
Vibrant colors and contemporary styling
Innovative use of lighting and fashion elements
Technical mastery combined with fresh editorial concepts
A leading force in today’s fashion photography scene, Lindsay Adler balances striking conceptual work with strong technical skill. Her clean, graphic but also experimental style features eye-catching color palettes, architectural posing, and intricately designed lighting setups. Adler’s photographs often weave a modern energy into classic high-fashion aesthetics.
From Adler, I’ve learned how to use color and texture to amplify a photo’s impact. I love to experiment with vivid backdrops, patterned accessories, or bold makeup to craft a cohesive editorial story. Additionally, her keen understanding of lighting—whether it’s a crisp high-key look or a moody, low-key portrait—inspires me to continually refine and elevate my own lighting techniques.
In merging these influences, my work aims to evoke boldness, authenticity, and creative flair. From Newton, I take the importance of pushing boundaries with provocative elegance. From Lindbergh, I adopt a sense of realism and emotive storytelling that highlights the genuine spirit of the subject. From Adler, I gain the drive to innovate through color, shape, and clever lighting. Yes, she represents the modern, glamorous fashion style with complex light setups - but for me that was the missing link
Whether I am shooting a fashion editorial, a portrait series, or a conceptual piece, I often ask myself: Am I being bold enough? Am I capturing true emotion? Am I playing with light, color, and composition in a way that’s both modern and timeless? These questions help me continually refine my craft.
Final Thoughts
The work of Helmut Newton and Peter Lindbergh is a reminder that fashion photography is about more than beautiful clothes or striking faces—it’s about evoking a sensation and sharing a story that endures. By observing their techniques and understanding their intentions, I can channel their influences into my own creative approach, striving to craft images that captivate and resonate.
Who are the figures that inspire your style? Reflecting on the photographers, artists, or designers who captivate you can lead to discoveries about your own artistic journey. Embrace their lessons, adapt them, and add your voice to the conversation—because that’s how true style is born and continues to evolve.
