THE TALENT // BRIAN KAMINSKI
Hiro Clark is inspired by creative people that make our hometown buzz. THE TALENT is our program to show off local legends and undiscovered superstars.
Actors, writers, directors, photographers and all the rest of our creatives – come along as we see the other side of L.A. through their eyes.
Brian Kaminski is an L.A.-based photographer and creator. His lens has captured some of HIRO CLARK’s most iconic images over the years. When he’s not shooting, you can find him soaking up inspiration in the desert.
How did your story with L.A. begin?
It began around 17 years ago. At that time, I was a hairstylist in Scottsdale, planning on continuing in hair after my move to LA. Once I arrived, however, I began dabbling in photography. I started with A LOT of model testing, specifically working with agency girls. I styled their hair, they did their own makeup and then I photographed them. However, I quickly became disinterested with hairstyling and found my interest expanding in photography; translating hair sculpture into figures and forms in front of the lens. And I’m a people watcher, let’s be honest. So it was an easy transition for me. And thankfully people resonate with my eye.
What’s your favorite movie about L.A.?
LA Story with Steve Martin and a budding Sarah Jessica Parker. It’s a quirky and humorous parody of LA life yet somehow filled with real insight. Anyone who has spent any time in LA will absolutely identify with this movie.
What’s your favorite soundtrack for cruising down PCH?
Honestly it’s more likely a Podcast about Sasquatch or NDEs but to sound more normal, any 80’s playlist always does me right.
Where do you disappear to when it’s time to skip town?
The desert 100% or more specifically canyons. My partner and I were just in Sedona and it was such an incredible feeling being surrounded by such beautiful cliffs. I’ve been there many times when I was younger. Now, with many more years behind me, I find I have a greater appreciation for that type of landscape and vibe.
What’s your go-to for the midnight munchies?
McConnell’s double peanut butter chip ice cream.
Cult Leader
The Slim Short
Who’s your biggest L.A. icon?
A fusing of Herb Ritts and Bob Mizer if that were possible.
What’s your fave Hiro Clark go-to?
Winter / Jogger and summer / Short
Who would you invite to dinner at El Coyote?
Can I repeat my LA Icons? Herb Ritts and Bob Mizer. That would be a hell of a conversation.
Beach, mountains, or desert?
Desert / canyons
The No-Sleeve Hooded
The Slim Short
Skyscraper
The Jogger
It’s sunrise: are you more likely to be getting up early or finally going to bed?
I’m mostly likely still tossing around in bed like a bear in hibernation.
Who was your first Hollywood crush?
Any of the cast from Baywatch circa the first few seasons, sans Hasselhoff.
What makes L.A. the place for you as an artist?
Thanks to the very mild climate (except for the rain last winter), it’s a destination location all year long for so many clients, artists and collaborators.
- What does the “dark side of L.A.” look like through your lens?
I’m afraid to look too far down that rabbit hole. I think it’s much darker than we imagine. On one side LA is like the real life Instagram. On the surface it’s beautiful. Everything is great. Flawless. The highlight reel. On the other side, everyone is striving to “make it”. Life in LA isn’t always sunny and 74 degrees. It just appears that way. I believe it’s important to be able to unplug and remove oneself from the chaos that seems so important; that which demands so much of one’s attention. And as you asked, important to skip town, disappear and recharge when needed.
What Hollywood icon (from any era) would you love to have photographed?
I guess i’d also have to be thrown back into the era in which this person lives rather than bringing them to 2023. I’d much rather shoot them in their life at that time. Joe Dallesandro late 60’s just as he was leaving Athletic Model Guild and becoming a muse to Warhol. Truly iconic.
