Description

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All aspects of the paparazzi’s craft are examined in this volume that unveils the complex love–hate relationship between photographer and celebrity, and the role of the oft-disparaged profession in contemporary art today. In 1960, Fellini invented the now infamous paparazzi character in La Dolce Vita. The profession has since alternated between parasite and indispensible marketing tool in the lucrative business of celebrity branding that has become a mainstay of popular culture. The most scandalous and memorable photographs of the stars that feed the media machine—from Jackie O to Britney Spears—are included, along with an assessment of the glamour and perils of life in the spotlight. Four leading paparazzi explain the risks of their profession, the factors that impact market value of celebrity snaps, and the tricks employed by both sides—from terrifying car chases to staged publicity stunts that maximize a star’s visibility. The place of the paparazzi in contemporary art is also covered, either in iconic images themselves, or as inspiration for artists such as Richard Avedon, Cindy Sherman, Terry Richardson, Gerhard Richter, Sophie Calle, Andy Warhol, and Weegee.

About the Author

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Clément Chéroux, photography historian, is a curator at the Centre Pompidou and editor of a photography journal. He has published several books on photography.

Praise For…

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“Exploring the complex love-hate relationship between celebrity and photography, here is the oft-disparaged profession in contemporary art today.” –Society Diaries