Photographer Gareth Cattermole captured the creativity and community of Harry Styles's fans at Wembley Stadium using a Polaroid camera, focusing on the handmade outfits, accessories, and humorous slogans that define the singer's devoted fanbase.
Polaroid Project Captures Pre-Show Excitement
Instead of photographing the performance itself, Cattermole chose to document fans arriving before the show, highlighting their excitement and self-expression. "I wanted to capture the excitement and anticipation before the show, when fans were arriving, socialising and showcasing their personalities through what they wore," he said.
Handmade Outfits and Slogans
The images feature a hand-sewn tie dress assembled the night before, a top with lyrics from Styles's album Fine Line, and a five-year-old fan attending his first concert. "Using Polaroid film encouraged me to slow down and be selective with each photograph, giving the images a candid, personal quality," Cattermole explained.
Record-Breaking Tour
Styles's 12-night residency at Wembley Stadium follows 10 shows in Amsterdam, with additional performances planned in São Paulo, Mexico City, New York (30 nights), Melbourne, and Sydney. The tour has been a global phenomenon, drawing fans who invest significant time and creativity in their concert attire.
Community and Shared Culture
Cattermole's project emphasizes the sense of community among Styles's fans. "I concentrated on small details, particularly the handmade outfits, accessories and humorous slogans on T-shirts, reflecting the creativity and shared culture of Harry Styles's fan community," he said. The resulting Polaroids document not just the event but the people who help create its unique atmosphere.
