I have mentioned on here before how much I love collecting great coffee table books. I often default to my collection for creative inspiration. I so much prefer to turn pages over scrolling, and it’s a lovely way to spend a leisurely afternoon or to flip through for a five minute break. So many of my images are inspired by the classics — everything is derivative so I have no issue with mimicking a photo exactly as it will always have our own spin on it and look completely different. I actually think it’s an excellent way to learn photography — copying a master’s composition is never a bad idea!  I’d love to highlight my newest book, The Authentics.   Not only is it one of my favorite collections of photographs but it’s especially relevant because the book explores what it means to be a tatemaker today and to relentlessly pursue a vision rather than mass appeal.   In The Authentics renowned photographer Melanie Acevedo and founding editor of domino (and coauthor of its bestselling book) Dara Caponigro dive into the private worlds and gorgeous homes of 30 international trailblazers in art, design, and fashion. Each space offers a peek into how truly authentic people live their lives when they’re out of the public eye: from a traditional Venetian palazzo to a whimsical L.A. bungalow to a sophisticated and starkly minimalist Parisian retreat. With a surprising mix of color and black-and-white photography that includes portraits, interiors, gardens, and still-lifes of flowers, food, and more, The Authentics is an inspiring tribute to confidence, originality, and the power of finding one’s own voice.  There are so many amazing spaces and people to be discovered in the book, and Melanie Acevedo’s photography is spectacular.  Sadly, I can’t show you all of my favorite images in this post (you’d have to buy the book) so I selected one of my favorites.

A few great reminders from the book are, “it’s never easy to be authentic, and I think it requires a tremendous amount of courage” and “the greatest luxury is to know what you like and to have the opportunity to follow your own path no matter what.”  Definitely worth collecting!! xx