Studio Harcourt: A Timeless Experience in Fine Art Photography
A photograph produced by Studio Harcourt is something very special. Hollywood stars like Marlene Dietrich, Salvador Dali, Brigitte Bardot, and more recently, Jean Paul Gaultier, Princess Rania of Jordan, John Malkovich, Spike Lee, French actress Sophie Marceau, and racing driver Michael Schumacher have all had their portraits taken here.
Moreover, those who are not necessarily in the public eye, but who seek their own fine art photographic portrait, make up the majority of Studio Harcourt’s clientele. Historically, it was favored among the French upper classes who preferred the modernity of photography to traditional painting. While a Studio Harcourt portrait can be a splurge, the results are simply extraordinary.
What Happens During a Portrait Session
The studio is located in Paris’s smart 16th arrondissement, just near the Bois de Boulogne, and boasts a suitably grand address reflecting its history and reputation.
Upon entry, you are greeted and guided up a dramatic, red-carpeted staircase to the main reception, which features a high-ceilinged room adorned with black-and-white portraits. To your left, there’s a seating area; ahead, a gallery with more portraits and an Art Deco bar. To your right, large doors reminiscent of a 1930s cinema lead into the spacious studio.
Your portrait session begins with specialized makeup and hairdressing in the bijou-like Studio Jean Cocteau. You can come with any glamorous costume you prefer, or—at an additional cost—they can arrange couture sessions where you can choose your clothes.
The style of photograph is customizable—perhaps a classic pose or something altogether more daring? The professional photographers can offer a variety of possibilities. You can also select either a black-and-white or color portrait, although black-and-white is the usual choice, as that is what the studio is renowned for.
Historically, when the likes of Jean Paul Belmondo were among Studio Harcourt’s clients, improvised techniques like using a ladies’ stocking to create a soft-focus effect were common. Today, they employ the best digital cameras and lighting, yet the principle remains: gentle lighting akin to that used on movie sets, avoiding harsh spotlights.
After two days, the proofs are ready for your review, and two weeks later, your precious portrait arrives. Professionally printed on artist’s paper with the Harcourt signature in the corner, your portrait proudly communicates your choice of excellence.
History
The Studio was founded in 1934 by Cosette Harcourt, the Lacroix brothers, and Robert Ricci, son of Nina Ricci. In the early days, the studio produced images for the press and successfully navigated the challenges of the Depression, whereas many other studios closed. Cosette Harcourt made the pivotal decision to attract more celebrities. The studio was resilient during World War II and flourished again after 1946, resuming its focus on photographing film stars.
In 1991, the French government acquired the collection of photos taken by Studio Harcourt between 1934 and 1991, encompassing around 5 million negatives capturing approximately 550,000 individuals and 1,500 celebrities. Studio Harcourt collaborates with the French government for exhibitions of these photos. The collection’s legacy is also encapsulated in the book, Studio Harcourt 1934-2009 by Francoise Denoyelle.
Practical Information
Studio Harcourt
6 rue de Lota
Paris 75116
To secure your session, it is advisable to plan well in advance, ideally at least two weeks. However, for those who arrive in Paris with limited time, the studio may accommodate expedited services for your finished portrait, ensuring you can take it home with you.
For those interested in more affordable keepsakes from Studio Harcourt, options like their branded Champagne or perfume are available. Additionally, the studio offers unique photography services for pets at a lower cost than individual portraits.
The Studio can also create fine-art style portraits for significant events such as weddings and even for small group sessions. If preferred, the entire studio experience can be brought to your location, blending sophistication with convenience.
A Studio Harcourt Photographic Booth
Utilizing their vast expertise in lighting, Studio Harcourt has innovated a photo booth that captures high-quality portraits without the distractions of flash. Be sure to check for one of these booths at some of France’s top hotels, with detailed information available on their website.
Currently, one of these special booths can be found in Paris at:
MK2 Bibliotheque cinema
128-162 avenue de France
Paris 13
