He is known for his iconic images of George Michael, Iggy Pop, Jane’s Addiction, Pearl Jam, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nirvana, Elvis Costello, No Doubt, Fiona Apple, Henry Rollins, Soundgarden and Scott Weiland.
His exhibition is a celebration of the making of an “amazing music video” for the song “Reach” with the band Martini Ranch, where he collaborated with esteemed director James Cameron. They filmed for two days at Veluzat Motion Picture Ranch in Newhall, California. “At the time this was a big shoot for me,” he said. “To this day it’s one of my favorite music videos I worked on. I’m showing over 80 prints from these two shoot days. These photos tell the story behind the making of this brilliant music video.”
Cuffaro noted that the idea of the video was an “apocalyptic twist” on the classic western: “a bad guy being pursued by a gang of ruthless female bounty hunters.” The band featured the late Bill Paxton and Andrew Todd, and the video featured many of Paxton’s friends including Kathryn Bigelow, Lance Henriksen, Paul Reiser, and Jenette Goldstein, among others.
Over the years, he has photographed some very impressive people. Several of his favorites include Iggy Pop, Michael Hutchence, Gwen Stefani, George Michael and Fiona Apple. “I could go on and on, but I will spare you. What makes a great subject and photograph to me is simple. Talent, personality, honesty and a dash of crazy,” he said.
Oscar-wining director James Cameron (The Titanic) will be in attendance at his exhibition. “I know he loves the photos and it’s awesome that he remembers me from 30 years ago. Having him show up is a big deal. He’s very very busy. I just hope I make him smile and bring him some good memories,” he said.
Regarding his future plans, he said, “More Greatest Hits events around the world. Next up is Sydney, Australia in February of 2018. This project is not one exhibition, but a series of exhibitions around the world. The plan is simple: share my two biggest loves, photography and music. I hope each event is bigger than the last. My biggest goal is to end it all in New York City.”
Each day, he is motivated by life. “I love what I do and do what I love. I’ve been shooting for over 47 years now. I fell in love with photography when I was young. I can’t imagine life without it. I always tell my friends: ‘I have a million stories and the photos to prove it.’ Now is the time to celebrate my life and work. It’s my time!”
Cuffaro talks digital transformation of photography
When asked how technology has changed the photography scene in a way that he didn’t predict, he stated “Big time. “I’ve always been ahead of what is going on. I was lucky to be into computers and digital before it took over. The transition was easy. I love digital more than film. I think I’m one of the few older guys who say this, but it’s true. I have always embraced technology and change. It doesn’t scare me one bit,” he explained.
Cuffaro uses technology on a daily basis in his photographic work. “I’m on the computer 50 to 65 percent of my day,” he admitted. “If I’m not retouching, I’m editing or just doing production. I love technology and take advantage of every bit of it. The one thing I love most is it helps me organize. I’m an organization fanatic. I keep track of everything and tech makes it possible.”
On the evolution of technology over the years, especially in the field of photography, he said, “My home is a digital lab. Having control over everything I create makes my life better. I can create without anyone’s help and that makes me smile. Today, there are more photographers than ever using the same cameras and they all look the same. I work hard to be different, to look different and have fun doing it. Having the control of my technology helps me do all of this.”
For the fans and viewers, he concluded, “Please come and check it out. It will be up until September 7. Watch the video before you go. Then check out the photos. You will see the love and passion that was behind the making of this great music video. Everyone in the cast and crew gave their best. So much fun and so 80’s!”
To learn more about veteran photographer Chris Cuffaro, check out his official homepage.
