โOnce upon a time, life was not better. It was different. Once upon a time, everything was optimism, because nothing was bad for you.โ โ Slim Aarons, Poolside
The introductory words to โPoolside with Slim Aaronsโ written by William Norwich, do an exemplary job of capturing the essence of George Allen Aaronsโ photography. Sitting with the book, flicking through the pages, you are drawn into a period of โjet set utopianismโ enjoyed by the fabulously wealthy and captured by โthe photo laureate of the upper classesโ, as the New York Times once phrased it.
Itโs not the wealth that interests me specifically, itโs the carefree attitude that comes with it, and how Slim Aarons has managed to translate it โ positively. Thereโs no denying his most iconic photos are of attractive people, doing attractive things, in attractive places โ but I think for fans of his work today, thereโs such a fascination with this period of distinct class, carefree love and expenditure that drives so much interest.
Hereโs a handful of the best Slim Aarons poolside shots. To buy Poolside, click here. While youโre at it, also check out Lenny Kravitzโs Beverly Hills mansion which took inspiration from the book and the photographerโs portfolio of photos.