NYC: Polaroid Portrait Session with Miles Aldridge at Sotheby's
NYC: Polaroid Portrait Session with Miles Aldridge at Sotheby's
Exclusively at Sotheby's New York (20th-24th April)
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Widely recognized for his distinctive approach to Polaroid photography, as celebrated in his acclaimed series of books Please return Polaroid (Steidl 2016), British artist Miles Aldridge is offering a limited number of exclusive portrait sessions at Sotheby's iconic Breuer Building in New York, to coincide with AIPAD.
How It Works
Each intimate session lasts 20 minutes: 15 minutes shooting in front of Miles' iconic orange curtain, followed by 5 minutes waiting while your Polaroids develop. Upon arrival, your group will be welcomed by the wonderful Sotheby's staff as you prepare to step into the artist's vibrant, cinematic world.
The Experience
In this rare opportunity, you'll be photographed surrounded by props from Miles' signature universe: classic movie popcorn, feather boas, retro telephones, and oversized glasses in all the colors of the rainbow. You're encouraged to bring personal items that contribute to a visual language that is both familiar and theatrical. Wear something bold!
Miles will personally select and sign his favourite Polaroids from your session, creating memories to treasure forever.
Exclusive to Sotheby's New York
These portrait sessions are available only at Sotheby's New York — a unique chance to be photographed by Miles Aldridge and take home signed original works from an internationally acclaimed artist.
If you have further questions about the Polaroid Portrait session, please send an email to studio@milesaldridge.com and we'd be more than happy to help.
"15 minutes, go go go! Do not hesitate if you are around! I just did it and it was amazing... Enjoy!" – Rafik
Sir Elton John by Miles Aldridge for TIME Magazine Icon of the Year, 2024
15 Minutes of Fame is my ongoing series of Polaroid portraits, a democratic mix of public figures and ‘complete unknowns’.
Each sitter steps into my studio, where they’re photographed against a pleated orange backdrop, under theatrical lighting, with a curated selection of props from my universe: telephones, popcorn, cocktail glasses...
The idea came after I photographed Elton John for TIME’s Icon of the Year cover. That shoot, staged like a set of photobooth snapshots, got me thinking: what happens when anyone, not just a celebrity, is given their moment in the spotlight? The result is a pop-tinged homage to August Sander and Andy Warhol, filtered through my own hyper-stylised, cinematic lens.
Over the course of fifteen minutes, I work spontaneously with each sitter to create a fictional version of themselves. There’s a wonderful alchemy in that brief performance, where myth and truth blur.
I shoot the portraits on Polaroid because it’s immediate, with just the right amount of irreverence — perfect for capturing flashes of humour, vanity, drama, and surprise.
Each portrait is a unique, unrepeatable record of the sitter’s 15 minutes in front of my camera.
At its core, 15 Minutes of Fame is about how people want to be seen, and who they become when they’re given permission. More often than not, the version they leave with is closer to the truth than the one they arrived with.
– Miles Aldridge
Polaroid Portrait FAQs
Where is the Portrait Session held?
Portrait Sessions will be held on the 2nd floor of Sotheby’s Breuer, 945 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10021.
How much is the Polaroid Portrait session?
Each Polaroid Portrait session is $500.
How do I schedule my portrait?
Please use the button above to select a time and date.
If your preferred time/date isn't available, please email studio@milesaldridge.com and we will do our best to accommodate.
How long is each Portrait Session?
The Portrait session takes 15 minutes to shoot, then another 5 minutes to develop.
How many people can be in my Polaroid Portrait?
The sessions are available for individuals or groups of 2-4 (a couple or group of friends/family).
Is the building wheelchair accessible?
Yes it is wheelchair accessible.
Will there be props & what to wear?
A selection of Miles’ iconic props will be available to use, such as skulls, coloured telephones, cocktails, and popcorn.
You are also welcome to bring personal items or pets to be photographed with.
Wear something fun! Miles' work is known for its vibrant, saturated aesthetic.
Can I bring my children or my pet?
Yes! The Polaroid Portraits are fun for all the family – even your littlest or fluffiest ones.
How many Polaroids will I receive?
Miles will sign his favourite selection of your Polaroids, which are yours to keep! This is typically between 3-9 Polaroids.
Do I need to book a time slot in advance?
Yes, Polaroid Portrait sessions require advance booking. Please select your preferred time slot when purchasing.
Not in New York but want a Polaroid?
Polaroid Portrait sessions can be privately booked with Miles in his London studio, or a location of your choosing.
For more information, please reach out to us via email: studio@milesaldridge.com
