Gabriele Oestreich

Gabriele Oestreich, known more commonly by her pseudonym, GABO, is a celebrity and portrait photographer born in Hamburg, Germany. Starting her career on the other side of the camera, GABO switched from model to photographer following her first contract with Stern magazine in 1986. Since then, she has shot numerous national and international stars including Yoko Ono, Eric Clapton and Kevin Costner.

How would you describe your style?

A shoot with me should freeze a moment in time. I always try and help my subject relax, and make sure their self confidence shines through during the shoot. I also don’t so a lot of retouching – wrinkles give someone character and you never want to be taking someone’s character away.

What are the challenges of shooting in your style?

When I shot for Playboy I have to make sure that, especially the women, are feeling comfortable in their skin. We all have blemishes, and it’s establishing a relationship with them – making them feel like my sisters. Sometimes the chemistry just isn’t there and the subject feels impatient or uncomfortable, but even those emotions result in some striking images.

How does Rotolight fit into your work?

Rotolights help me to stay flexible and fast – I love working spontaneously. Even when I’m working with natural light I can use it for that final kick and it doesn’t disturb the personality of my portraits.