Tyler Shields American, b. 1982

Born in 1982, Tyler Shields is a Los Angeles-based photographer, writer and director celebrated for his daring, provocative and glamorous work. A former world champion in-line skater, Shields credits his athletic career with shaping his fearless, risk-taking approach to art. Nicknamed "Hollywood's Favorite Photographer," he is constantly pushing the envelope and challenging the concept of what can be done with a man and his camera.

 

Shields is best known for his rebellious photography which closely explores themes of consumerism, fantasy, and decadence, while also engaging with power structures, hyperrealism, and cinematography. What sets him apart from many contemporary photographers is his unwavering dedication to shooting exclusively on film. He believes that film photography has a magical quality that captures the raw, unfiltered essence of a moment, unadulterated by digital alterations. Unlike the prevalent practice of heavy photoshopping and retouching, Shields eschews these digital manipulations, preferring to let his subjects and scenes speak for themselves. 

 

His limited-edition prints are some of the most sought-after images in the world, with a total of just three images ever made in each available size. Name a celebrity, and Shields has probably shot them; from Hollywood legends like Bruce Willis to industry titans like Elon Musk, and everyone in between. Shields has had his models run from planes flying feet over their heads and holding $100,000 Burkins on fire next to their faces. Not to mention his image titled Lady And The Lion where Shields had me dangle a steak over a live lion's mouth. He makes you feel like the impossible is always possible.

 

With international acclaim as a photographer cemented, Shields has stretched his artistic endeavors even further to write and publish several books, including The Dirty Side of Glamour, The Smartest Man and Provocateur. Recent years have proven to be some of the most impressive for Shields’ career. He has had several exclusive photographs go to auction at Christie’s, Phillips, & Sotheby’s, and his most recent achievement includes being the first-ever living photographer to be honored with a one-man show at Sotheby’s London.