Born in 1956 in Paris to a French soldier and an Algerian Muslim mother, Michel Haddi experienced a tumultuous childhood, moving between foster homes until settling at the Sisters of Saint Vincent de Paul Orphanage in Paris at six. Fascinated by Vogue magazines his mother brought, he dreamt of becoming a photographer. Working in a renowned restaurant, Haddi encountered fashion world personalities, fueling his aspiration.
In 1970, after a journey through Saudi Arabia, Michel assisted various photographers in London, finding a lifelong mentor in Victor Herbert. Opening his first studio in 1980, Haddi collaborated with magazines like American GQ, Jardin des Modes, and British Vogue. In 1981, Vogue Hommes commissioned a ten-page shoot, marking a fruitful collaboration leading him to Italy. Meeting Franca Sozzani in 1985, he joined her team at Vogue Italia, initiating years of extensive travels and collaborations with prominent publications.
Throughout the late 1980s, Haddi established himself as a leading fashion photographer, working in New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London, and Milan. His editorial collaborations spanned Europe, Asia, and the USA, with contributions to Italian Vogue, French Vogue, GQ, Tatler, Allure, Vanity Fair, and more. Additionally, he lensed advertising campaigns for major brands like Armani, Yves Saint-Laurent, and Guerlain.
Living in the USA, Haddi photographed numerous celebrities, including Clint Eastwood, Martin Scorsese, David Bowie, and Angelina Jolie, capturing intimate moments and their essence. As a photographer and film director, he is currently based in London, where he manages MHS Publishing, his own publishing house releasing his books. Michel Haddi's impactful career spans over 30 years, leaving an indelible mark on the world of fashion photography and celebrity portraiture.
Mastering Your Craft: Portfolio Evaluation and Industry Insight
Journey Through the Lens: Discovering the Photographer's Work
Creative Direction and Concept Development
Virtual Studio Tour: Behind the Scenes with the Master Fashion Photographer
Navigating the Fashion Photography Industry
Live Photoshoot Demonstration
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