Miles Aldridge, renowned for his cinematic and meticulously composed photography, continues to push creative boundaries with his latest exhibition in London. From his North London studio, surrounded by large-scale framed artworks, Aldridge reflects on his transition from illustration to photography and his passion for film. Capturing stars like Elton John, Donatella Versace, and Kate Moss, he embraces the unpredictability of film, relying solely on his instincts until the final image is revealed.
Aldridge’s photography is characterized by its controlled environments, vibrant colors, and suspenseful compositions. The son of Alan Aldridge, a celebrated graphic designer of the ’60s and ’70s, he gained prominence in the mid-’90s through collaborations with Franca Sozzani at Vogue Italia. His upcoming retrospective, co-hosted by Sotheby’s and the Lyndsey Ingram gallery, will showcase some of his most iconic works, including “Chromo Thriller #3,” featuring a woman in a moody, surreal setting reminiscent of a Francis Bacon painting. The carefully curated images evoke intrigue, often revealing unexpected narratives through the creative process.
Unlike documentary photography, Aldridge’s approach mirrors that of a filmmaker, beginning with detailed storyboards, casting, and set design. Months of preparation culminate in images that feel both spontaneous and deliberately crafted. He believes digital photography, with its instant feedback, can stifle creativity, whereas film forces a deeper engagement with the subject and composition. He emphasizes that overly structured photography can lose its vitality, preferring the serendipity that film allows.
The exhibition follows a special edition of Toiletpaper magazine, which featured his surreal imagery. Aldridge recalls how the magazine’s founders, Maurizio Cattelan and Pierpaolo Ferrari, had long admired his work, leading to a collaboration celebrating their shared aesthetic. Alongside well-known pieces, lesser-seen works such as “Hahaha!” and the “Doors” series will be displayed, offering a fresh perspective on his artistic vision. These images, while depicting mundane activities, gain a psychedelic quality through sharp color coordination and stylized presentation.
For the first time, Aldridge will also offer one-on-one Polaroid portrait sessions at Sotheby’s, allowing visitors a fleeting moment in front of his lens. Props such as feather boas and retro telephones will add a playful element, while Aldridge navigates the challenge of relinquishing some creative control. Despite the uncertainty, he welcomes the opportunity to step outside his comfort zone, reaffirming his belief that true artistry lies in bending the camera to one’s will, creating images that transcend mere documentation.
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