Celebrity Photographer Reflects on Photographing Harry Styles

I have had the privilege of capturing Harry Styles‘ journey through my lens since his days with One Direction. Back then, he was already blessed with striking features, but his true talent remained hidden from most. Perhaps Simon Cowell was among the few who saw his potential. Over the years, I have witnessed him blossom into a remarkable artist, a true survivor in the industry. It is impossible to ignore the adoration he receives from fans, which often results in him having to reside in secret locations just to experience some semblance of privacy.

Whenever Harry arrives at an event, the screaming fans, both girls and boys, make their presence known from miles away. However, I am fortunate enough to typically photograph him in more controlled environments, such as private parties. The red carpet, on the other hand, is pure chaos. His charisma, reminiscent of Mick Jagger in his youth or Bowie as Ziggy Stardust, exudes an indescribable energy. That timeless baton of rock star allure continues to be passed down through the generations, and Harry carries it with grace. With his ability to effortlessly transform his image, he epitomizes the style and essence of Generation Z, embracing a non-binary aesthetic that resonates powerfully on camera. It is a refreshing departure from those who lack the enthusiasm to present themselves in the best light.

Out of the numerous photographs I have captured of Harry, one that particularly stands out is from the Brit Awards last year. In that moment, he adorned a colossal flower around his neck, obscuring half of his face. From a technical standpoint, it posed quite the challenge, but the final result was stunning. Credit for his slightly edgy yet fashion-forward looks goes to his stylist, Harry Lambert. He expertly crafts the unique elements that complement Harry’s natural charisma.

Aside from his undeniable talent and captivating presence, what sets Harry apart is his unwavering connection to his hometown friends and his humble nature. He remains grounded despite the overwhelming fame and success. And as a photographer, I cannot stress enough how effortlessly he translates into the perfect subject, making my job an enjoyable one.