“Hey, everyone, and welcome to THROUGH THE LENS PODCAST, where we explore the unexpected passions of iconic artists. Today, we’re diving into the life of a man who’s spent decades making crowds scream with blistering guitar riffs—only to quietly step offstage and trade his Stratocaster for something far more discreet: a Leica M camera.
That’s right—Andy Summers, the legendary guitarist of The Police, isn’t just a rockstar. He’s also an accomplished photographer whose work has been exhibited worldwide. So, how does the mind behind ‘Every Breath You Take’ and ‘Roxanne’ channel creativity through a lens? Let’s unpack his journey from stadiums to darkrooms.”
THE ARTIST BEHIND THE POLICE
“Before we talk photography, let’s set the stage. Andy Summers joined The Police in 1977, helping redefine rock with Sting and Stewart Copeland. Their sound—reggae-infused, jazz-tinged, and irresistibly catchy—catapulted them to global fame. But even at the height of their success, Summers carried a camera.
In interviews, he’s described photography as a ‘counterbalance’ to the chaos of touring. While fans saw the guitarist shredding under neon lights, Summers was quietly documenting the world backstage, on streets, and in hotel rooms. His early photos, often shot in black and white, feel like visual echoes of Police albums—moody, introspective, and charged with raw energy.”
WHY THE LEICA M?
“Now, let’s geek out about gear. Summers’ tool of choice? The **Leica M**, a rangefinder camera revered by legends like Henri Cartier-Bresson. Why this camera? Well, imagine trying to snap candid shots as a globally recognized rockstar. The Leica M is compact, silent, and unassuming—perfect for disappearing into a crowd.
Summers has called it an extension of his eye. Unlike modern DSLRs with their buttons and screens, the Leica M is manual, tactile, and *slow*. It forces you to *see* before you shoot. For someone used to improvising guitar solos, this deliberate process became a new kind of improvisation.
In his book *Throb*, Summers writes, *‘Photography is like music—you’re always chasing a moment that can’t be replicated.’* And with the Leica, he’s chased those moments everywhere: Tokyo alleyways, New York subways, and the shadows of L.A.”
THEMES IN HIS WORK
“Let’s break down Summers’ photography. His style is stark, high-contrast, and deeply human. Think of his guitar tone—crisp, clean, but with an edge. His photos often focus on urban decay, fleeting glances, and the poetry of ordinary life.
One series, *‘A Certain Strangeness,’* captures eerie landscapes that feel like stills from a noir film. Another, *‘Desirer Walks the Streets,’* documents nightlife with a voyeuristic intimacy. It’s no surprise his work has been compared to jazz—spontaneous, rhythmic, and full of soul.”
FROM GALLERIES TO BOOKS
“Summers isn’t just a hobbyist. His photography hangs in galleries from London to Tokyo, and he’s published multiple books blending images with memoir. *A Certain Strangeness* (2021) pairs photos with handwritten notes about his life in music and art.
Critics argue his dual careers inform each other. A photo of a rain-soaked street might mirror the melancholy of ‘Bring On the Night,’ while a frenetic crowd shot echoes the pulse of ‘Synchronicity.’ Whether you’re a fan of The Police or a photography buff, his work bridges two worlds.”
“Andy Summers proves creativity isn’t confined to one medium. He’s a reminder that art is about seeing deeply—whether through a guitar riff or a camera’s viewfinder.
If you want to explore his photography, check out his books *Throb* and *A Certain Strangeness*, or follow him on Instagram @andysummersmusic. And hey, next time you listen to ‘Roxanne,’ imagine Summers lurking in a dimly lit alley, Leica in hand, chasing that perfect shot.
Thanks for tuning in! If you loved this episode, share it with a friend who geeks out over cameras or classic rock. Until next time—keep looking for the light.”
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