Photographer Gray Malin's Latest Collection Is Exactly What Your Walls Have Been Waiting For
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Photographer Gray Malin first landed on our radar with his bird's-eye shots of tropical beaches and glamorous pools around the world. But he's recently brought his camera down to earth, landing solidly on the swanky grounds of the Parker Hotel in Palm Springs, where he juxtaposed wild animals with the hotel's Jonathan Adler-designed Hollywood regency interiors. The just-released series entitled Gray Malin at the Parker Part II is a follow-up to his tremendously successful collection of wild creatures at the hotel last year. While the first collection focused on exotic animals, this time around, Gray cast kings and queens of wildlife, including ferocious lions, prowling tigers, and towering camels. From working with lion tamers to getting an ostrich to play tennis, Gray shared with us how he managed to capture these magical images in the slideshow of the series ahead. Look through to pick out your favorite print ($299 and up).
The Porter I
If you're wondering how Gray dreams up his concepts, sometimes he actually does dream them! "This may sound crazy, but I first saw this image in a dream, so it's pretty amazing seeing in reality, too," Gray said.
Mister Parker
That crown is not photoshopped — it's the real deal! Gray explained, "the lion's trainer took special care and patience to put the paper crown on. The trainer explained that the crown was so light that the lion would not be able to feel it through his thick mane."
Spa Day
"Doesn't she look like she just had the best massage ever?" asked Gray of this regal — and seriously relaxed — tiger lounging by the pool.
Happy Hour
"Who wouldn't want to cheers a few rounds with these two?" asked Gray. We have no doubt these raccoons are party animals.
The Porter II
"I have been collecting Hermès boxes for years, and I've always wanted to incorporate them into my work somehow," said Gray of this striking image that matches the unmistakable orange of the Hermès boxes with the orange of the Parker's front door.
Afternoon Delight
As you would expect, you can't just drop a tiger onto hotel grounds. "This was a very special shot to capture, as we cleared the area to ensure safety for all," said Gray. "The tiger is just so chic; I love how she moves in this image."
Fun in the Sun
We love that this shot incorporates Gray's signature love of pools and sun umbrellas. Oh yeah, and the camel is pretty cool too!
Tennis Lesson
Gray incorporated a few of his favorite things into the shoot. "This was a fun one to create! I love to play tennis, so it was fun getting to incorporate sport into this series," he said of the snap featuring a surprisingly athletic ostrich.
The Gardener
"'The Gardener' is such a playful shot, in my opinion," said Gray. As for where it should be hung, he said, "I'd love to see this one along with another one from the series in a nursery. It feels very fitting for children's decor."
Welcome Back to the Parker
We're not sure we would want to check in to the hotel if this giant fellow was the one greeting us at the door!
Housekeeping
Sometimes the picture sets itself up and all the photographer has to do is capture it. "This shot was sheer luck! I love how it's almost hidden with the mesmerizing pattern of the carpet," said Gray.
Party Animal
Not every photographer can stare down a tiger. "I absolutely love the tiger's eyes in this shot. So powerful!"
As Gray Malin points out, the whimsical nature of these photographs makes them perfect for a nursery or child's room.
But they're also just as striking in a sophisticated living room.