The art of capturing a true legend is no small feat, and when that legend is Sir Ian McKellen, the stakes are extraordinarily high. Sir Ian, known worldwide for his roles as Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings and Magneto in the X-Men series, is not just an actor but a monumental figure in British theatre and cinema. His six Laurence Olivier Awards and contributions to the stage further cement his status as a luminary of our time.
In May 2014, I had the unparalleled opportunity to photograph Sir Ian McKellen in what remains one of the most memorable sessions of my career. This London actors headshot session took place at Sir Ian’s home, an experience that combined the charm of his personality with the grandeur of his professional achievements.
The invitation to Sir Ian came while he and Sir Patrick Stewart were performing Waiting for Godot at the Cort Theatre in New York. I was thrilled when he accepted my request for a portrait session. The session took place in London, at Sir Ian’s home, providing a setting that was as personal as it was iconic. Among the eclectic décor, Gandalf’s sword casually hung on a clothing rack, adding a whimsical touch to the environment.
Faced with the daunting task of encapsulating Sir Ian’s immeasurable talent, we sought inspiration from his prominence as a Shakespearian performer. We aimed for a portrait style reminiscent of the renaissance artist Holbein, focusing on lighting that would highlight the intimate details and wisdom in Sir Ian’s expression.
In just thirty minutes, Sir Ian's magnetic presence dominated the session. His gentlemanly charm and ease in front of the camera made it one of the smoothest photoshoots I've ever conducted. The portraits captured not only his formidable acting prowess but also his profound humanity and elegance.
Reflecting on this session, I am reminded of Sir Ian’s graciousness and the effortless way he commanded the camera. His feedback, “Thank you for the easiest Photoshoot ever!” was not just a compliment but a testament to the seamless rapport we shared during our brief yet unforgettable time together.
Revisiting this iconic photoshoot not only celebrates the remarkable career of Sir Ian McKellen but also underscores the power of portrait photography in capturing the essence of legendary figures. The experience remains a highlight in my journey as a portrait photographer, reminding me of the profound impact a single session can have.