FEATURE REVIEWS

Q1:  Growing up in Southern California, who were some of the earlier artists that influenced you to pick up the camera? Now that you are entering the fine art scene, could you tell us about this new direction?    

A1:  Growing up in Southern California, my introduction to photography stemmed from an early fascination with beauty and transformation. In my youth, I would skateboard around scouting models at high schools, parks, and beaches. Borrowing a camera from a friend, I would do their hair and makeup, then take their photographs and send it to modeling agencies. The models I discovered soon found themselves signed and whisked away into the modeling scene worldwide from Paris to Milan and New York. Inspired by the whirlwind of the fashion industry and with a passion for beautifying talent, I moved to Milan as a celebrity hair and makeup artist. I travelled the globe while transforming legends of the time and working with iconic figures such as Elizabeth Taylor, Whitney Houston, Cindy Crawford, Farrah Fawcett, and many more. These stars became my inspiration and muse, and I would secretly take photos of them off set for my personal collection of memories. During my time as a hair and makeup artist, I had the opportunity to work alongside legendary photographers Herb Ritts, Helmut Newton, Peter Lindbergh, Arthur Elgort, Patrick Demarchelier, and Bruce Weber while learning invaluable insights and laying the groundwork for my own artistic evolution. 

After working many years as a celebrity hair and makeup artist, I transitioned my career into a fashion and celebrity photographer, with these early influences fueling my desire to capture and create visual stories through the camera lens. Now, as I embark on this new chapter entering the fine art scene, it's a culmination of a lifelong passion and years of archived photographs. The exclusive collection I'm sharing reflects not just my artistic journey but also a deep narrative woven through my experiences. This new direction highlights the transformative power of fine art photography, where simplicity and depth collide, and where the beauty of modern stars blends seamlessly with the timeless elegance of my work.

Q2:  Can you share with us how your work has impacted the development and trends in your fields of works?

A2: Throughout my dynamic career trajectory, my influence on the development and trends within the realms of celebrity, fashion, and fine art photography stems from a rich background that began as a model scout and celebrity hair and makeup artist. By working with the celebrities and supermodels of the time, I not only honed my craft but also contributed to shaping the beauty standards of the era.

As I transitioned to photography, I brought a unique perspective influenced by my experiences behind the scenes. My distinctive style as a photographer, characterized by a timeless and elegant aesthetic, set new benchmarks and trends within the celebrity and fashion photography domains. Through capturing the essence of stars like Leonardo DiCaprio, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, and the Kardashians, my work contributed to the visual language of storytelling through the eye of a fashion photographer. Beyond capturing moments, my work becomes a force in building and revitalizing brands. Partnering with global giants like Mercedes Benz, J Crew, and Warner Brothers, my timeless and elegant approach serves as a transformative tool for brands seeking a fresh identity, blending tradition with contemporary innovation.

Q3:  Some models or actors have become famous after being photographed by you. Will you continue to photograph young people who are not yet famous?

A3:  Absolutely, the journey of scouting and discovering talent is a passion that runs deep within me, and I don't see it ever coming to an end. From my early days as a teenager scouting models based on my keen eye for beauty, to the present, where I've had the privilege of discovering supermodels Taylor Hill, Jeremy Meeks, Gigi Hadid, and many others, the process of uncovering raw talent continues to be a source of inspiration.

In establishing my management company and mother agency, White Cross Management, I've taken the opportunity to guide the careers of aspiring models. This initiative goes beyond representation; it's about providing guidance and support to help young talent flourish in an industry that can be challenging. Having witnessed the darker aspects of the modeling world, I felt compelled to make a positive impact.

Embarking on this ongoing journey to scout models worldwide is a dream come true for me. It's not just about capturing a beautiful face; it's about recognizing the potential for change that resides within young people. I firmly believe that they are the voice for change, and through this process, I hope to contribute to shaping not only their careers, but also impacting the world positively. 

Q4:  As a renowned fashion photographer, you have worked with top brands and industry professionals. What advice do you have for aspiring photographers who want to make a name for themselves?

A4:  Running towards fear has always been an integral part of my creative journey. Throughout my career, I've come to understand that fear often signals the potential for growth and evolution in the creative process. Whether experimenting with a new photography style, embracing innovative techniques, or diving into unfamiliar subjects, it’s important to push forward into uncharted territories and break free of the fear.

This willingness to push boundaries, even when discomfort arises, has led me to more opportunities, more relationships, and a deeper connection with my artistic identity. The journey of growth is as significant as the destination.

I would recommend to aspiring photographers:

1. Let your passion guide you

2. Embrace every opportunity to learn and evolve

3. Seek mentorship

4. Continuously refine your skill

5. Develop a unique voice and vision that reflects your values and beliefs

Q5.  As technology continues to advance, how do you see the future of photography evolving? Are there any new techniques or tools that you are excited to explore?

A5:  Looking ahead at the future of photography, the constant growth of technology sparks my curiosity and excites me. Advances in digital imaging, AI, and post-processing will reshape the entire photography industry. I envision a future where AI not only simplifies editing but also opens new creative possibilities, potentially changing how I tell stories through my own lens.

I'm particularly intrigued by virtual and augmented reality in photography. The fresh idea of creating immersive experiences beyond traditional images sparks my creativity. 

For me, the future of photography isn't just about technology; it's a personal journey of exploration. Staying updated on these advancements and incorporating them into my artistic practice is thrilling, ensuring that my work reflects the dynamic blend of modern technology and creativity, while staying true to my roots of a timeless airy aesthetic.

Q6.  As an influencer and an expert, what do you look for to create timeless works?

A6:   Creating timeless works often involves embracing simplicity, going beyond complex camera gear or elaborate lighting setups. I find beauty in the purity of a shot, focusing on the basics that enhance a moment. Natural lighting adds a genuine quality to the visual story, and the play of light and shadow can evoke timeless charm or create dramatic effects.

This simplicity extends to the visual elements within the frame, from clothing to makeup and styling. I prefer minimalism, stripping away unnecessary details to let the raw beauty of the subject and the narrative shine. Capturing a moment in its purest form holds a unique power to endure.  Additionally, authenticity and a genuine connection with the talent are priorities for me. Creating a comfortable, liberated, and fun environment on set is essential to creating beautiful works of art. Timelessness comes from content that resonates personally and goes beyond trends. Understanding my own aesthetic and storytelling helps me to photograph images that stand the test of time.

How do you explore the themes of love and hate in your artwork? What inspires you to delve into these complex emotions?

It is more than just nature’s dualism of light and shadow, Tolstoy’s war and peace or Goethe’s Faust reflecting on love and despair - LOVE HATE is everywhere!  In families, relationships, politics or religion - it’s evolutionary - yet complex!  Within our society today, I feel there is a battle of extremes on both sides - for or against:  It seems that we can only love or hate - make or leave - blaspheme or praise - kiss or rave - dance or stand still - be there or leave - follow or lead - judgment or mercy - shame or fame?

That is why art in public space is so important, to open a dialogue on two seemingly irreconcilable points of view and to symbolize a change of perspective. We need love more than ever. As one of my favourite poets - Hermann Hesse - once said: "The beginning of all art is love!"

Have personal experiences or societal events influenced your exploration of love and hate in your artwork?

Certainly - pain is my petrol for creativity, as is deep delight. I am the personified essence of Love and Hate; the balancing act between reality and dream, hope and disillusionment, artistic freedom and establishment is my daily struggle for survival. Artists have always been like seismographs of society - they feel, unfiltered, what the rest of the

world goes through and try to reflect upon it within their work. One example is my museum show Edges of Europe about the refugee crisis for which I manufactured a taxidermy of a winged horse - Pegasus. It’s a symbol of transition - loved at home - hated in a foreign land - metaphorically, but in relation to the hardship of refugees. I had the inkling of this theme, humanitarian catastrophe in Europe, as an artistic vision for a long time. Those Love Hate moments happen 24/7 in my mind - I just have to choose which one I create artworks from....

Do you believe that love and hate are interconnected? How does this understanding shape your artistic practice?

In my eyes, Plato's Allegory of the Cave explains that very well: Plato wants to motivate us with his iconic story to go out of the darkness into the light. According to this, the ignorant man has turned away from his true divine origin (sun) and considers only the outer appearances to be the absolute truth. He is convinced that only the knowledge from the

shadow world is the sole truth. To get out of the cave means for Plato to reach the knowledge of the unchanging ideas and finally the highest idea of the good. It only works if we experience the contrast tangibly - the discrepancy between day and night, rich and poor, nature and technology, healthy and sick, happy and sad, beautiful and terrible. Without the previous we would not be able to grasp the present.... just like love and hate! Even our planet is bipolar - just like all my art babies born on this earth!

Navigating the fine line between expressing intense emotions and potentially triggering discomfort or controversy in your artwork can be challenging. How do you approach this delicate balance?

I’m art

Says my heart

I’m a born idea

That's why I’m here

Lastly, could you share any upcoming projects or ideas where you plan to further explore the themes of love and hate in your work?

I just had the most extreme experience: My family and I moved to Maui, Hawaii literally days before the fires erased Lahaina. We were in shock and still are. What was supposed to be a liberating nature experience turned into the greatest natural disaster I have ever witnessed. The last few weeks we tried to be of use - we donated, helped and tried to process it all - I am certain, I will make something out of this memory once the time is right and we have familiarized ourselves with the Hawaiian culture, what is appropriate and what is not. So for now, my team and I are concentrating on the planning of a US tour of the LOVE HATE sculptures, starting from Washington, Austin, Nashville, Chicago via all US cities in which a German Consulate resides (like LA, Atlanta, Miami or Houston). The USA, like Europe, is a deeply divided country and the extreme dualism of love and hate fits the zeitgeist. Therefore we need art in public space as a bridge builder to create attention for controversial topics within our society. Nietzsche, with whom my maternal family is related to, once said: "We have art in order not to die of the truth!"

Hi Jamie , thanks for showing us your lovely pink house, What inspired you to pursue a career in fashion photography, and how did you get your start in the industry?

As a teen, I expressed myself through fashion. I constantly scoured thrift stores and modified my clothing using scissors and safety pins.  I discovered photography as a tool for further expression and began shooting my friends.  After high school, I honed my technical skills at Brooks Institute of Photography and received my Bachelor’s of Arts degree.  Upon graduation, I moved to New York City to pursue my dream to become a fashion photographer.  After a successful 12 years in the city, I relocated to Los Angeles where I bought my dream home—a Hollywood Regency style pink palace.  I spent the next five years remodeling my studio with floor to ceiling shag fur, round beds, and analog TV sets and stereos.  Before I knew it, I had morphed the rooms into colorful vintage themed art installations.  I was surprised that my outlandish designs attracted major celebrities, music videos, and commercials productions.  I now live, work, and play in a 70’s time warp.

You've photographed many famous female celebrities, including Gwen Stefani, Drew Barrymore, and Megan Thee Stallion. How do you bring out the unique qualities of each woman you work with, and how do you showcase their individual beauty and personality in your photographs?

Whether I am shooting a best friend who has never modeled, or a seasoned celebrity, I truly enjoy empowering my models.  I start with a warm-up phase in which I explore the unique personality of each person through untapped angles and facial expressions.  I like to get up-close-and-personal, shooting tight beauty portraits in an intimate fashion.  As I direct my models, I create a fun and disarming environment, making a fool of myself as I demonstrate poses and shout encouragements throughout the shoot. I believe true art is created in the magic of collaboration between photographer, model, and the entire creative team. 

Do you have any tips for women who feel nervous or uncomfortable in front of the camera? How do you help your female subjects feel confident and at ease during a shoot?

My best tip is that a model should be willing to explore multiple moods, angles, and poses– fully committing to my vision.  Modeling is like acting––the subject must embody that certain je ne sais quoi in the eyes, or the images will fall flat.  A great ice breaker is when I arrive on set dressed in theme.  I am always making a bold statement with my attire–whether adorned in glitter, bell bottoms, wild prints, or vibrant colors.  My models are entertained by my audacity and authenticity– thus inspiring them to also be their unapologetic selves. Because I have done some modeling for brands and films myself, I am empathetic with the models’ insecurities on set.  I make a point to give continuous encouragement as it can be intimidating to perform in a room of people staring at you.  I support my models by posing along with them, being silly, and spouting cheesy cliché lines when caught up in the moment.

Breast cancer is unfortunately very common, and it's important to both raise awareness of the disease and celebrate the strength and resilience of women who have survived it.  I am a breast cancer survivor myself.  If you had the opportunity to photograph a group of breast cancer survivors together, what sort of message would you hope to convey in the resulting images?

Breast cancer survivors are on their own level of bad-assery!  In photographing breast cancer survivors, I would encourage them to create awareness by proudly baring their scars as badges of honor. I believe that confidence, resilience, and resourcefulness are some of our most attractive characteristics.  By displaying the survivors’ battle wounds in the open, together we can expand society’s perception of beauty. It would be a dream project to shoot portraits of bad-ass survivors through my lens as the sexy, strong, and empowered women they truly are.