A Visit to Berlin’s Museum of Photography: Helmut Newton & Polaroids

When you first enter the Museum of Photography in Berlin, you’re greeted by five iconic images that would almost certainly get me banned from every social media platform if I dared to use one as the featured image for this post. These bold and unforgettable photos are by Helmut Newton, the legendary fashion photographer who had a deep appreciation for the naked form and made no effort to hide it.

A large part of the museum is dedicated to Newton, one of Germany’s most famous and celebrated photographers. But it’s not all about him. During my visit, there was a fantastic special exhibition on Polaroid photography that deserves a mention (more on that later). If you’re planning a visit, check the museum’s website in advance as exhibits come and go.
If the name Helmut Newton doesn’t ring a bell, don’t worry, you’ve probably seen his work without even knowing it.

Newton began his career in the 1930s, but it wasn’t until the 1950s that he really gained a reputation. From then on, he became one of the most influential photographers of the 20th century, particularly in the realms of fashion and celebrity portraiture. His work graced the pages of magazines like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, and his style became instantly recognizable.
He continued working right up until his tragic death in 2004, when he lost control of his car in Los Angeles at the age of 83.
Helmut Newton’s photography is famous for living on the edge, his images often featured powerful women, strong poses, and a healthy dose of eroticism. His work wasn’t just provocative for the sake of being provocative, it carried a distinct point of view. He blurred the line between fashion photography and fetish, occasionally dipping into the aesthetics of BDSM and fetishism, never timid, always intentional.

The Newton exhibit offers a well-rounded look into both his life and his legacy. Alongside somet iconic photographs, you’ll find personal items, books, interviews, and even a replica of one of his apartments, which is every bit as eccentric and stylish as you’d expect.