Viewing Dave Benett: Great Shot, Kid

Ask Naomi Campbell, Madonna or Tracey Emin who their favourite photographer is and they’ll likely say Dave Benett. The Rolling Stones demand him in their dressing room and Kate Moss won’t do a photo call without him. ‘I’m always happy to see Dave’s face at a party or event,’ she once said. ‘I know I’m in safe hands. He’s the best.’

A photographer for over 40 years, Benett began his career as a news reporter before turning his lens to the celebrity circuit in the early 1980s. Since then, he has snapped some of the most iconic images in showbiz history, from Liz Hurley in that Versace dress to Liza Minelli and Princess Diana on a night out together. Rumour has it that he even asked the Queen to move out the way to get a better shot. ‘I was trusted because I took a good picture,’ he has said. ‘You should never forget why you’re there.’


To mark 40 years in the industry, JD Malat Gallery presents Benett’s first solo exhibition. Curated by Benett together with author and editor Dylan Jones, it features a selection of his most famous photographs, as well as images never seen before. Expect oodles of glamour, sex and rock’n’roll. As you’ll soon see, Benett really has seen it all!