Slim Aarons lived by the mantra “attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places.”

And it’s true, he photographed some of the world’s wealthiest celebrities, jet-setters, and royalty, but somehow with a feeling of approachability and closeness.  From his NYTimes obituary it seems as though Slim had become one of them.  He was actually close to these socialites and was able to photograph them freely in situations where other photographers (and the public) were not allowed: their Palm Beach estates, private parties, terrace pools in Greece, and so on.

I came to know Slim Aarons’ photographs this past year as one of my clients purchased some prints of his.  I can’t wait to finish the rooms that his photos will hang in.  They’re modern and moody, sophisticated but not overly stuffy.  I’ve read was that Slim never used a makeup artist or a stylist in any of his photos, and that’s why I think they feel more approachable, more real than many of today’s celebrity photographs.

What do you think – do Slim’s photos feel intimate despite his subject being so glamorous?

"Poolside Gossip" in Palm Springs by Slim Aarons

Slim Aarons - "Kaufman House"

Slim Aarons - "Pop and Society" feat. Mick Jagger, Marianne Faithful, and Desmond Guinness

Slim Aarons - Eden Roc Pool @ Hotel Du Cap France

Slim Aarons - "Beauty and the Beast"

Slim Aarons - "Nice Pool" in Palm Beach

Slim Aarons - "Leisure and Fashion" - at a poolside fashion show in Palm Beach

Slim Aarons - "Jean Serpieris" - at Tour La Reine Athens

Slim Aarons - "Penthouse Pool" - in Athens

Slim Aarons - "Family Chair" - An heir sitting in HM Flagler's favorite chair in front of Flagler Museum, Palm Beach

Which is your favorite Slim Aarons photo?

If you’d like to see more, other writers’ thoughts, or even purchase his work, follow the links below:

• Staley Wise Gallery – Slim Aarons Exhibit
• Photographers Gallery (to purchase Slim Aaron prints)
• The Selvedge Yard – Slim Aarons – The Undisputed King of Hollywood Photography (includes video interviews w/Slim)
• NYTimes Obituary for Slim Aarons
• The French Sampler: Photographer Slim Aarons
• Photoshelter: Slim Aarons

Or if this put you in the Palm Beach mood – check out my post: Palm Beach Interior Design Style