SUMMARY
Veteran paparazzo David Koppel's new book, "Spotlight," chronicles his experiences capturing celebrity images before the advent of autofocus and digital cameras. Koppel recounts instances of physical altercations with subjects like David Bowie and Mick Jagger, and the demanding fieldcraft required to obtain shots. His methods included elaborate schemes, such as posing as an usher to photograph Princess Diana, and relying on a network of informants. The book highlights the contrast between his era's challenging, often confrontational, approach to photography and today's digital age.
TAKEAWAYS
David Koppel's book "Spotlight" details his career as a paparazzo in the 1980s and 90s.
He faced physical confrontations and relied on fieldcraft, nerve, and legwork for photos.
Koppel captured unguarded celebrity moments before digital technology and autofocus.
His last paparazzi job was in 1997, following public tolerance shifts after Princess Diana's death.