It’s the most glamorous night in Hollywood, with glittering gowns and flashing lights. But what grabbed my attention from Oscar Night was a quieter, more reflective space.
Mark Seliger has been capturing the soul of the Oscars for the past 11 years. The portrait photographer behind the Vanity Fair Oscar Party, Seliger is creating images that reveal the personalities behind the event, far more profound than the red carpet paparazzi moments.
Seliger’s studio, a space purpose-built for the evening, is a world of its own. This year, he chose a moody, brutalist concrete set, a stark departure from the typical glitz we associate with the Oscars, adding a unique touch to his work.
In this setting, he captured the faces of victory and unguarded joy. I love his portraits from this year, especially those of Emma Stone and Christopher Nolan with wife Emma Thomas, clutching their well-deserved statues.
These portraits serve as lasting reminders of the night’s emotional highs. Every subject who sits for Seliger is part of the story, from first-time nominees to seasoned veterans.
What truly sets Seliger’s work apart is his knack for capturing moments of fleeting intimacy amidst the heavily publicised celebration. He provides a unique glimpse into the soul of the Oscars beyond the performances and accolades.
Photography has the power to capture moments of fleeting beauty and emotion.
At this and any event, the core is about people, their stories, and what they create. As the world rushes past, photography preserves those moments.
