Porsche Design Eyewear: Look at this!

Lorenzo Agius was born to Maltese parents and grew up in London. He first garnered recognition in 1996 for the film poster to Trainspotting with Ewan McGregor, Jonny Lee Miller and Robert Carlyle. A year later, he photographed Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher in bed with his then wife Patsy Kensit, defining Cool Britannia for Vanity Fair. He has had countless stars in front of his camera, and several of his photographs are on permanent display at London’s National Portrait Gallery.

You once said: “From the equipment to the people I ­photograph – I wake up every day and already I’m planning.” How much room does that leave for creativity and spontaneity?

With the level of work I do, there always has to be a plan in place of how one goes about the day. That requires a lot of forward planning. At the same time, I’m the greatest believer in spontaneity – this is what creates the magic in the shoot. As much as we plan, the greatest shots result from the interaction with the subject, as well as the mood of the day and the location.

You already photographed Patrick Dempsey once many years ago. What was that like?

When I worked with Patrick back then, I had this idea to create a classic vintage feel to the shoot. I wanted a scenario that Patrick would enjoy and where he could be natural in the process. I found an old movie location just outside of L.A., a Midwest town that looked like a faded memory of the past. We hired a 1950s Harley Davidson and captured Patrick in a more rugged, unposed feel.

And how was it this time around? 

As for the natural, unposed aspect, it was the same way to a degree with the recent shoot for Porsche Design and rampstyle. Keeping it real was essential here as well. Patrick is an amazing subject who understands the need for realism and authenticity and who just exudes this effortless coolness every time.

You’ve worked with countless celebrities. What makes Patrick Dempsey special as a person?

I believe there are very few American actors who have matured so well. He has a natural charm and look about him – upbeat and serious when needed. Whether he’s wearing jeans, a T-shirt and a leather jacket or a beautiful suit, he pulls it off every time.

Are sunglasses and glasses in general a particular challenge when taking photographs?

They are. There’s actually a lot to consider. Reflections, shine, flare, detail – that all comes into play. But the priority is to capture and create the right mood and drama every time in order to tell the story in a way that the viewer appreciates and recognizes. In advertising it’s important to sell, to promote lifestyle and coolness. To make it believable.

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