Arthur Hubert Legrand

“I seek to create iconic images, and I love simplicity. The rooftops of Paris are an alibi: a kind of desert in which I can peacefully take photographs of extraordinary women.”

First attracted by film, Arthur Hubert Legrand soon turned to photography. More instinctive to his taste, the eighth art was a true revelation. His camera accompanied him in his early days, visiting the natural settings of the wild Breton coastline near Nantes, then followed him to Paris, where he moved to at the age of 28. His work then took a new turn. Fashion photography, nudes, portraits… Urban contexts inspire him as much as the superstars he admires, including Lindbergh, Newton, Avedon, Kubrick, or Chaplin. Each of his series reveal a sensibility unique to the artist, subtly emphasising the female body. ... See more See less

Interview

Why photography?

It's not always the case, but it seems to me that film is more complicated. And it's long. With endless crews, hours of preparation, a shoot requires so much energy that I feel like I lose the thread of what I'm saying. I like the simplicity of a trigger. I go up to my roof with a dummy and a pair of overalls, and all I have to do is jump between the chimneys.

Your inspiration, especially artistic?

Lindbergh, Newton, Avedon, Kubrick, Chaplin and many others.

What characterizes your writing?

I seek to create iconic images, and I like simplicity. A photograph that doesn't get old, without too much makeup, without too much fabric. The rooftops of Paris are an excuse, a kind of desert where I can shoot extraordinary women.

An anecdote to tell us?

I stumbled upon my roof perfectly by chance, my neighbor was climbing up there one night to have a glass of wine. I followed him and immediately saw the potential of the place. I started bringing in my model friends, and it quickly became popular.

The photo you wish you had taken?

There are so many incredible photographs. Probably "Dovima and the Elephants" by Richard Avedon. It's a perfect image and perfectly iconic. What an idea! This grace, this delicacy in the middle of powerful forms, ultimately just as graceful. With the simplicity of an Yves Saint Laurent line it's exceptional.

Your next projects ?

Books, exhibitions.

Your favorites YK?

Stefan Rappo, Nicolas Guerin, Slim Aarons.

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