In February of this year, we had the incredible opportunity to connect with the renowned photographer Robert Whitman in New York City. After completing college, Robert embarked on a global journey, capturing stunning images along the way. In 1977, back in Minneapolis, he was approached by the manager of a young, aspiring artist named Prince Rogers Nelson. At just 19, Prince needed captivating photos for a press kit to send to record labels, aiming for a deal with Warner Bros.

Whitman’s lens documented Prince in various locations, including the intimate setting of his Minneapolis studio, Owen Husney's Linden Hills Boulevard home, and the vibrant streets of downtown Minneapolis, notably in front of the iconic mural of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony at Schmitt’s Music store. Remarkably, only 15 copies of this press kit were ever printed, and the majority of these striking images have remained largely unseen.

In 2013, Robert rediscovered these photographs, offering us a rare glimpse into the early and authentic moments of Prince's journey, captured before fame transformed his narrative forever.

 

We are excited to welcome Robert to the Behind The Gallery family. We sat down with Robert to talk about his career, travel and of course those Prince photos.

What led you into the world of photography?

The lifestye attracted me to becoming a photographer. The freedom and no rules....the cool hippie life ...No haircuts no 9 to 5 jobs. Lots of hot women always knocking at your door . It was an amazing life and different times. Being a photographer was a dream of many.

How would you describe the Minneapolis scene at the time?

Minneapolis was a little NYC....Lots of bars and bands  playing. 

Everyone smoking weed. Everyone making love. 

I really loved it…it was a hub for everything, from music to art Minneapolis was the place to be. 

How did the shoot with Prince come around?

My friends knew I wanted to be a photographer and I was just starting out. They knew I wouldn't charge them anything so I took the pictures of Prince. 

 

Can you recall your impression of Prince from the shoot?

Prince was very shy, he let his music do the talking.... 15 instruments, he played 15 of them. 

 

 

Do you have a personal favourite?

Not one personal favorite…but the Music Wall and Giving the Finger are iconic for me. 

What led you to shooting more commercial work later on?

I loved to travel, I did not want to stay put anywhere so this is how I starting traveling the world and taking pictures, the best way to do that was thru commercial works.  

What advice would you give to up-and-coming photographers?

Shoot from your heart. Don't copy.

Look at details. Not just the big picture. Details are the one that make the difference. 

 

See Robert Whitmans Full Prince Collection Here

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Prince Robert Whitman

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