Peter Lippmann : Transforming the Ordinary into the Extraordinary
Peter Lippmann is a photographer renowned for his visual sophistication and unique conceptual approach. Born in New York and raised in New Jersey, he moved to Paris 25 years ago, and established a distinguished career collaborating with luxury brands such as Cartier, Christian Louboutin, and influential publications like Vogue and The New York Times.
Lippmann is noted for his mastery of minimalism and lighting, creating images that combine elegant simplicity with narrative depth. His work is characterised by meticulously designed compositions, where each element is strategically placed to maximize visual impact while maintaining a refined aesthetic.
A standout project by Lippmann, “Paradise Parking,” explores the interplay between nature and abandoned vintage cars, transforming these forgotten vehicles into objects of striking beauty. This series highlights his ability to reveal visual stories through streamlined scenes, showcasing his talent for capturing harmony between elements.
Through his work, Peter Lippmann continues to push the boundaries of contemporary photography, offering a perspective where each image is a blend of art and reflection. His innovative vision and sharp compositional sense make him a major figure in the modern photography landscape.
Website: peterlippmann.com
Instagram: peterlippmann
Your first photographic trigger?
Peter Lippmann : My father’s passion for art.
The man or woman of image who inspired you?
P.L. : My father and his work ethic.
The image you wish you had taken?
P.L. : Every one that I haven’t had the time to do.
The one that moved you the most?
P.L. : Dovima with elephants by Avedon.
And the one that made you angry?
P.L. : These day every image of Palestine.
Which photo do you think changed the world?
P.L. : None. The world is hopeless.
And which photo changed your world?
P.L. : The abstract work of Ansel Adams such as Frozen Lake and Cliffs, Sierra Nevada, California, 1927.
What interests you most in an image?
P.L. : The esthetic.
What is the last photo you took?
P.L. : One from a current series called ‘Little People Galore.’
A key image in your personal pantheon?
P.L. : Photo Finish, my first series that has withstood the test of time.
A photographic memory from your childhood?
P.L. : Me shooting from a plane window when I was ten.
In your opinion, what is the necessary quality to be a good photographer?
P.L. : Devotion and drive.
What do you think makes a good photo?
P.L. : Clarity of intelligent expression.
Who would you like to photograph?
P.L. : I don’t do portraits.
An essential photo book?
P.L. : Nadav Kandar, Beauty is Nothing.
The camera from your childhood?
P.L. : My father’s old 35 mil. Nikon. Don’t remember which one it was.
The one you use today?
P.L. : Fuji GFX 100S
An upcoming project that is close to your heart?
P.L. : A book entitled SoulTown, hopefully published in October.
Your favorite addiction?
P.L. : Nicotine and work.
The best way for you to disconnect?
P.L. : Any form of creation.
What is your personal relationship with the image?
P.L. : Combative. Although photography is the art form that I do the best, after forty years it remains as challenging as in the beginning. Only my standards have changed.
By whom would you like or would you have liked to be photographed?
P.L. : Nick Knight
Your latest folly?
P.L. : The endless Soultown book that I am currently preparing. I am bad at foreseeing the amount of time necessary for my different projects.
An image to illustrate a new banknote?
P.L. : A portrait of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
Color or black and white?
P.L. : Dollar Bill Green.
Daylight or studio light?
P.L. : Don’t care.
What, in your opinion, is the most photogenic city?
P.L. : Detroit.
If God existed, would you ask him to pose for you or opt for a selfie with him?
P.L. : We would have other more pressing matters than photography. But I don’t like selfies.
In terms of social networks, are you more Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, or Twitter and why?
P.L. : Instagram. Because time is so limited and I don’t bother much with all that.
Do you think the explosion of social networks has changed our relationship with the image?
P.L. : Definitely. Tons of pro and cons.
What does photography represent in your creative universe?
P.L. : It represents the only art form that I seem to have mastered. I also write songs and am working on a book. Although very exciting, I’m a neophyte.
What is the purpose of art, in your opinion?
P.L. : To open our horizons.
The image that represents for you the current state of the world?
P.L. : The world, humanity, is in trouble. Obviously climate change but more threatening is polarization due to social media. So I’ll again refer to the Golden Pig clenching his fist after the recent assassination attempt.
The job you would not have liked to do?
P.L. : Any clock-punching job.
Your greatest professional extravagance?
P.L. : In 1996 I sunk everything I had into computers, scan and printers. It paid off.
What question could make you lose your temper?
P.L. : Any one where the the person asking does not listen to the answer.
And the question you wish someone would ask you but never has?
P.L. : I have no real interest in being questioned.
What is the last thing you did for the first time?
P.L. : Go camping alone in Iceland—a month ago.
The city, country, or culture you dream of discovering?
P.L. : I love to travel but don’t think or dream about it. I force myself to get my ass away from work. That being said, I’ve never been to Japan and hope to rectify that soon.
The place you never get tired of?
P.L. : Iceland.
Your biggest regret?
P.L. : Ouch. Too sensitive. Wish I had been a better father.
If I could organize your ideal dinner, who would be at the table?
P.L. : My parents, but they are both dead so it would be tricky. Among the living: Paul Simon, T.C. Boyle, Woody Allen, and Ilan Omar for dessert.
In your opinion, what is missing in today’s world?
P.L. : Education is the only hope but there is no hope.
If you had to start all over again?
P.L. : I would have insisted on psychiatric help very early on.
Afterward, what would you like people to say about you?
P.L. : That they enjoyed spending time with me.
The one thing people must absolutely know about you?
P.L. : I’m outspoken but try not to hurt. Just trying to speak the truth.
A final word?
P.L. : The secret of life is enjoying the passage of time.
