In the world of portrait photography, there's a powerful lesson to be learned from the iconic Arnold Schwarzenegger. His quote, "They always shoot up, so the camera is right there in front of you... You will always look like a stud," reveals a profound understanding of the art of photography and the impact of camera angle. This insight is a thread that runs through the remarkable TASCHEN monograph, "Arnold."
"Arnold" is more than just a collection of photographs; it's a testament to the collaborative nature of photography and the unique relationship between subject and photographer. With its XL format and comprehensive coverage, the book offers an unprecedented look at one of the most photographed lives in modern history. From an impoverished childhood in Austria to his rise as a bodybuilder, Hollywood star, and California governor, Schwarzenegger's journey is captured through the lenses of an extraordinary array of photographers.
The turning point in Schwarzenegger's photographic journey was the 1977 documentary "Pumping Iron." This film not only introduced him to a wider audience but also attracted a new generation of photographers and artists who were captivated by his unique presence. The list of photographers who captured Schwarzenegger is a who's who of the industry: Elliott Erwitt, Robert Mapplethorpe, Francesco Scavullo, and Andy Warhol, to name a few. Each brought their distinct style and perspective, resulting in a diverse and captivating collection of images.
What sets "Arnold" apart is the active role Schwarzenegger played in the photographic process. He understood the collaborative nature of the craft and brought the same intensity to studio sessions as he did to his Mr. Olympia performances. The early images, shot in the Austrian hills, capture a young man at ease with his body, exuding a confidence that borders on self-assurance. These weren't just snapshots; they were carefully crafted collaborations.
As the years progressed, Schwarzenegger's photographic collaborations became more sophisticated. The work of Herb Ritts and Sante D'Orazio, in particular, showcases the power of an exceptional photographer meeting a subject with no inhibitions. The low-angle shots, as described by Schwarzenegger, aren't just about perspective; they reveal the transformative power of the camera, capturing what the eye might miss.
For photographers, "Arnold" is a masterclass in portraiture. It's not just a celebrity biography; it's a record of a unique photographic collaboration spanning half a century. The book covers a vast range of photographic styles, from intimate snapshots to grand studio productions, and from gritty documentaries to the refined glamour of Mapplethorpe's formal studies. Through these diverse lenses, we see how a face and body can be interpreted differently across eras.
"Arnold XL" by Dian Hanson is a must-have for any serious photography enthusiast. It's a celebration of the art of photography and a testament to the power of collaboration. As we delve into this remarkable book, we're not just witnessing a life captured on film; we're experiencing the evolution of a photographic journey, a journey that showcases the transformative power of the camera lens.
