Markus Klinko

Markus Klinko is a Swiss-born fashion and celebrity photographer celebrated for his bold, cinematic style and iconic images of stars like Beyoncé, David Bowie, Lady Gaga, and Mariah Carey. Originally a classical harpist with a distinguished career, Klinko studied at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique in Paris and recorded award-winning albums with EMI Classics. After a hand injury ended his music career, he transitioned to photography, quickly rising to prominence with his work featured in top publications like Vogue, Vanity Fair, and Harper’s Bazaar. His iconic works include Beyoncé’s Dangerously in Love album cover and David Bowie’s Heathen artwork, which helped define the visual culture of the 2000s.

Beyond celebrity portraits, Klinko has led major campaigns for brands like Lancôme, L’Oréal, and Nike, and his photography has been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums, including the Lincoln Center in New York and the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C. Known for pioneering digital photography techniques in the 1990s, his work blends technical innovation with timeless aesthetics. A regular presence in media and television, including the Bravo series Double Exposure, Klinko continues to shape contemporary visual culture, capturing moments that bridge pop culture and fine art. (Website, Instagram)