Inside the World of Petra Collins
Exploring the dreamlike vision of photographer and director Petra Collins
"Inside the World of..." series offers a glimpse into the creative process of renowned photographers, breaking down how they build their unique visual stories. We'll explore their development, signature elements, and techniques—from lighting and styling to casting and post-production. This journey gives us a closer look at the art behind the images. This series if exclusively for paid members, so if you want to support my work and enjoy reading the free newsletter, I would love it if you upgrade to paid. First up, we explore Petra Collins' distinctive, ethereal photography style, known for its dreamy and emotional depth.
* This article is an exploration of Petra Collins' work, based on my own analysis, insights from her books, videos, Masterclass, and other available information. All credit for the work discussed goes to Petra Collins. Please note this analysis isn't fully exhaustive and may include assumptions or interpretations based on my expertise and available data. It's meant to appreciate and examine her contributions to photography, not to claim complete accuracy on every detail of her creative process.
About Petra
Petra Collins is celebrated for her unique vision in the art world, notably art directing the initial "Euphoria” show known for its aesthetic and creating an aesthetic so distinct that it's influenced the show's style even after she was let go for being “too young”. Known for her work through the female gaze, Collins explores themes of femininity and identity, making significant contributions to contemporary photography and visual storytelling. Her projects, ranging from high-profile music videos of Olivia Rodrigo to fashion campaigns for Gucci, Blumarine, Coach and more, and continue to push boundaries and provoke thought, marking her as a pivotal figure in defining modern visual culture.
The Early Days
Petra Collins' journey began in Toronto, where her love for photography blossomed early, using disposable cameras to capture the world around her, especially focusing on her sister and friends during their high school years. This intimate documentation, rich in emotion and personal growth, laid the groundwork for her unique artistic voice. Her work gained a wider audience when she joined forces with Tavi Gevinson for Rookie Mag and started her own online space for female artists, marking her as a pivotal figure in the early Tumblr era. Collins' exhibition "Discharge" was a retrospective look at this formative period, showcasing the raw, emotional depth of her early work. This phase of her career, boosted by a supportive arts teacher in an alternative school setting, propelled her into the spotlight, establishing her as a significant voice in contemporary photography and a new wave of photographers for the female gaze.
