Denis O'Regan on Photographing Bowie, Mercury, and the Birth of Punk Style

Denis O'Regan, the photographer with the most images of David Bowie, discusses his career in an interview with Artribune. His work is featured in the group show "XX" at Gallery Different in Fitzrovia, London, until April 1, 2023, celebrating the 20th anniversary of West Contemporary. O'Regan, born in 1953 and Artist-in-Residence at the Royal Albert Hall, has photographed Rolling Stones, Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, Queen, and The Clash. He describes his approach as documentary, capturing the person behind the persona, citing Freddie Mercury as shy offstage. He was inspired by David Bailey's use of 35mm cameras. O'Regan notes that punk allowed him to shoot close in black and white, while rock bands like Queen required color for their light shows. He distinguishes between "style" and "fashion," crediting Bowie, Duran Duran, and Spandau Ballet with immense style. His work with Spandau Ballet influenced their live shows. O'Regan considers working with Bowie, Mick Jagger, and Mercury a dream. He highlights Bowie's collaboration with Kansai Yamamoto for Ziggy Stardust, which anticipated gender fluidity. A recently discovered mid-air shot of Paul Weller with The Jam is his underappreciated favorite.