Walter Iooss and Michael Jordan crossed paths at the right time and in the right place, forming a relationship in the late 1980s that continues today. As Jordan rose in prominence, so too did Iooss, who said he peaked as a photographer during his 12 years covering the Hall of Famer.
But Jordan didn’t just help put Iooss on the map. The renowned Sports Illustrated photographer insists Jordan also raised Chicago’s stature.
A new exhibit featuring 30 of Iooss’ Jordan photos was unveiled Friday night at the Field Museum and will run until Sept. 8. Iooss shared a few thoughts about the photos, exhibit and Jordan.
Q. Where did the idea come from?
A. The idea came out of my head about a year ago. In Paris, there was an outdoor exhibit in 1990 (or) 1991. That’s the first time I had ever seen photography displayed so the masses could see it. … I started thinking of Michael (Jordan) and the joy he brought here (to Chicago). I spent so much time working with him. I approached his agent, I met with the city of Chicago, the park district and we all agreed on one thing: It was either going to be in Millennium Park or (the Field Museum). This was for the city of Chicago.
Q. How did the Field Museum get the exhibit?
A. It was like a pipe dream. Even for me it’s hard to believe this is actually taking place. … He brought so much joy to so many people — he was the most famous athlete in the world for a while. And he’s beloved. What was Chicago known for before Michael? Either the mob or the wind. Michael changed Chicago. He changed sports. He was a cultural shift, an icon in advertising with Nike. All these things took place at the right time in the right place with the right person. A lot of people can become a star, but most of ’em can’t handle the stress of being the top guy.
Q. What was your first interaction with him?
A. In 1987, I was sent to Lisle for a children’s basketball camp at Benedictine University (by) Sports Illustrated. He was hands down one of the most charming people on the planet, and at that point he was just free and easy. Arguably the best picture I ever took of him (was on) the second day we worked. … I didn’t get to do (Muhammad) Ali in his prime, but this was the most charismatic guy you could possibly follow so I was lucky. I documented him at the peak of his career.
More Top Picks Best Leather Boots For Women For Petite
Q. Is there anything that stands out to you in the time you spent with him?
A. He knew everything that was happening around him. He was always reliable — you couldn’t take a bad picture of him. In the end, I preferred talking to him (more) than shooting him. He had such a unique point of view from a place that few of us can understand.
Q. What was your thought process walking up to him at the 1988 dunk contest? Were you nervous?
A. I approached him (and said), “Is there any way you can tell (me which direction you’re going to dunk) because I can’t take a good picture unless I can see your face?” He was just sitting there in the stands. It was still 1988, you have to remember, (so) it wasn’t that crazy yet. … He couldn’t do the things he did in 1987-88 in 1995-96 — he was too big (by then). I’ll always remember those first years when he’d go to places and was just so fabulous with people. This is why he was great — not only did he have the talent, he had the charm, the looks, he came from a good family, he had it all going on. The fact he listened, that’s crazy.
Q. What impresses you the most about working with Michael Jordan when you look back at your work?
a. I think I took the best pictures of my career, which would be from about when Michael and I started out in 1986-87. … No one could’ve imagined this happening. … That access is what makes the difference, then trust and taking good pictures. I just got the right person at the right time. It was good for him and great for me. … He was never ill at ease with the camera. He was so used to everyone watching all the time.
Q. Do you feel you captured the real Michael Jordan?.
A. Absolutely. A lot of these pictures here are of the real Michael Jordan.
Twitter @InstantRHIplay