As you may know, I love animals, so featuring them in my work is a given. From the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia, to a horse farm in Iceland, to the chic cafes of Paris and so many more iconic places, animals have brought a sense of excitement throughout my career. Reflecting back on all of them while reviewing the creative for this sale has been such a trip, and I wanted to share a few of my favorites with you.
Far Far Away
Shooting at Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia was unbelievable. Because of the landscape, the colors pop like no other. The pink balloons against the llama with the blue sky in the background is such a beautiful color palette. I’m always in awe of how colorful and interesting the entire Far Far Away series turned out!
Dogs of New York City
One word for this is CHIC. The Plaza is such a well-known New York City hotel, so I knew the shot had to be just as iconic. The dog in the back of the cab in sunglasses and a scarf is my spirit animal. Running around New York shooting this series was so exciting.
Prada Marfa
Marfa, Texas is known for its crossover of “New York chic” meets “cowboy cool”. I wanted this series to reflect that and I think Two Horses does that perfectly. I used to go to west Texas with my family growing up and when I first saw this art installation, I knew I had to come back to shoot it.
Dogs at the Parker
One of my favorite snaps at one of my favorite hotels, the Parker Palm Springs. I wanted this series to be as playful as the grounds of the hotel. The palm trees and florals really tie it to California. I generally just adore posh pups – especially on the courts!
Gray Malin at the Parker
This is another great moment from the Parker Palm Springs — it is from the first series I shot focusing just on animals and is one of my favorites. Creating a story where wild animals roamed free and played the part of hotel guests and staff was so much fun. This animal series at the Parker always brings a smile to my face.
Gray Malin in Aspen
Speaking of luxury – this photograph exudes it. Being able to shoot in Aspen with a private jet was so cool. Everything from the scene to the backdrop makes for such an iconic image. This image pairs well with Private Jet from my Dogs of Palm Beach series.
À la Plage
I seldomly get to shoot aerials with animals in them, so this one is extra special to me. The simplicity of a person and their four legged friend on the beach is so striking, and almost intimate.
Dogs of Paris
A glamorous getaway in a frame with this Dalmatian cruising along the Seine in a vintage Triumph TR3 Roadster. I always look back at this and admire the richness of the colors, the classic setting and the unexpected dog, creating such a timeless photo.
Gray Malin at San Ysidro Ranch
Of course I had to include an image from my most recent series, San Ysidro Ranch. This one stands out to me because the sun catching the horse's coat makes it look magical. I love getting to visit the San Ysidro Ranch as it is such a stunning location, getting to shoot here was a dream.
Dogs of Palm Beach
This is a setting I dream of when we have a rare rainy day in LA. This photo screams relaxation and luxury to me. Who wouldn’t want to trade places with them?! Capturing dogs running around the Colony Hotel was an obvious follow up to my original Palm Beach collection.
Hope you love these wild animal prints as much as I do! If you want to see more, they’re featured here.
xx Gray