In the world of photography, there's a fascinating insight that often goes unnoticed - the power of perspective, and how it can transform an ordinary subject into an extraordinary image. This is a lesson that Arnold Schwarzenegger, the iconic bodybuilder-turned-actor-turned-politician, has imparted to photographers for decades. His quote, "They always shoot up, so the camera is right there in front of you... The way they shoot, you will always look like a stud," is a testament to the art of camera angle and the collaborative nature of photography.
This insight forms the core of a remarkable new book, "Arnold," edited by Dian Hanson for TASCHEN's XL format. The book, a serious investment at $150/£125, is a comprehensive photographic journey through Schwarzenegger's life, from his impoverished childhood in Austria to his rise as a bodybuilder, Hollywood star, and California governor. What makes this book unique is the sense of collaboration and understanding between Schwarzenegger and the photographers who captured his journey.
One of the key turning points in Schwarzenegger's photographic journey was the 1977 documentary "Pumping Iron." This film introduced him to a wider audience and, more importantly, to a new generation of photographers and artists. The list of photographers who captured Schwarzenegger's image reads like a who's who of photographic greats: Elliott Erwitt, Robert Mapplethorpe, Francesco Scavullo, Jamie Wyeth, and Andy Warhol. Each brought their unique style and perspective to Schwarzenegger's iconic body and magnetic face, resulting in a diverse range of images that showcase the power of the photographer's eye.
What's particularly fascinating about "Arnold" is the sense of agency and understanding that Schwarzenegger brought to the photographic process. He wasn't just a passive subject; he intuitively understood the collaborative nature of photography and how to work with photographers to create powerful images. This is evident in the early images, where a young Schwarzenegger, relaxed and confident in his body, poses against the Austrian hillsides, and in the later studio work, where he fearlessly engages with the camera, allowing photographers like Herb Ritts and Sante D'Orazio to capture his essence.
For photographers, "Arnold" is a masterclass in the art of portraiture. It showcases the range of approaches, from intimate snapshots to grand studio productions, and how the same subject can be interpreted differently by different photographers. It's a testament to the power of the photographer's vision and the subject's willingness to engage.
"Arnold" is not just a celebrity biography with pictures; it's a genuine record of photographic collaboration across half a century. It tells a story of how a face and a body can be read and interpreted differently in each era, by each new photographer. It's a reminder that photography is an art of perspective, and that the right collaboration can create something truly extraordinary.
Personally, I think this book is a must-have for any serious photographer or photography enthusiast. It offers a unique insight into the power of the photographic process and the impact of a subject who understands the craft.
