My happiest project: Daniel Stier

Throughout October, we’re looking at the subject of happiness, and asking creatives to tell us about the projects they’ve most enjoyed working on. Here, photographer Daniel Stier discusses a personal project about the people of London from over 10 years ago

Originally from Germany, London-based photographer Daniel Stier has become known for his clinical, almost scientific visual style. His crisp, high-flash approach sees him capture everything from Disneyland to the National Youth Theatre, celebrity portraits to cleaning products. 

Due to his ability to turn his lens to any topic, he has been commissioned by most of the top dogs in publishing including The New York Times Magazine, The Guardian, GQ, Elle, Wired, Dazed and many, many more. There’s a detached feeling to his work where images are stark and polished, but that doesn’t mean Stier is unfeeling in his practice, rather the photographer often adopts a rigorous, research-led standpoint and forms bonds with his subjects. This, combined with his precision and eye for detail, leads to unique and surprising images. Here the photographer reflects on a portraits-based project that connected him to the people of London.