A celebrated beauty photographer whose work embodies sophistication, creativity and transformation, Malibu-based Mitch Stone is known for masterfully highlighting the subtle details that define true elegance—bringing out both the inner confidence and outer radiance of his subjects. Known for his artistic vision and refined aesthetic, Stone creates compelling imagery that captures beauty in its most powerful and authentic form. He also happens to be Kim Basinger’s longtime love, and in celebration of Valentine’s Day, he shared the unique perspective he sees when collaborating and connecting with the star.
To start, I’m very aware that I’d probably be considered one of the luckiest men in the world—not only to be photographing Kim Basinger, but to be dating her as well. To that, I happily concede.
Whenever I photograph my girlfriend, it’s always extra exciting. Each shoot feels like revisiting a different moment in time—and honestly, it’s a bit like date night. After 12 years together, connecting this way is still incredibly fun.
I believe photography—especially beauty and celebrity photography—requires connection more than anything else. Of course, you need to understand your camera and lighting, but what really matters is what happens through the lens. Over the years, I’ve often been amazed watching photographers simply click, click, click without making any effort to engage or inspire their subject.
For me, connection is everything. A big part of my job is creating a space where the subject feels inspired and present.
What many people may not know about Kim is that she’s actually quite shy, reclusive and incredibly casual. Around the house, she’s a true surfer girl—happiest in worn jeans or something comfortable you’d never associate with a Hollywood icon. I’ve often told her she should have been more of a punk rocker than a movie star, which is honestly what I love most about her. I’ve even said she should play Kim Gordon one day.
She’s never been interested in fitting the mold. There are countless stories of her pushing back against the status quo, standing up for animals and defending the underdog, regardless of the consequences. It’s a side of her people don’t always see, and one that makes me love and respect her deeply. She does the work quietly, without needing recognition—she truly walks the walk.
Watching her transform—from my girlfriend into the icon she is—is honestly incredible. Having worked with many celebrities and models over the years, I can say without hesitation that photographing Kim is different from anything else I’ve experienced.
That transformation during a shoot is something truly special, especially when you know her as I do. You can literally see her click into a character she’s created in her head. She fully immerses herself in front of the lens, changing in a way I’ve never seen anyone else do. At times, it feels as if she slips into another dimension entirely.
During this particular shoot—especially with the boxer concept—her face changed, her energy shifted and she became completely absorbed in her own world. In those moments, you don’t direct her—you let her go.
She’s worked with some of the greatest photographers in the world, and I have a feeling they’d agree.
Lastly, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention her incredible skin. As a beauty photographer, photographing her skin is truly a gift. I’ve walked past the magnifying mirror in our bathroom while she’s putting on her potions and thought, she’s the only person I’ve ever seen who looks better in that mirror.
Great genes, unwavering discipline—exercise, no sun, clean eating, lots of water. It still amazes me that she doesn’t have a major skin-care campaign.
In the end, photographing the person you love is a reminder of why I fell in love with photography in the first place—connection, trust, and seeing someone for who they truly are.
Happy Valentine’s Day.
