GQ Poland

Apr 2026

For the latest edition of GQ Poland, photographers Tatiana and Karol have captured a masterclass in editorial portraiture featuring actor Cillian Murphy. Moving away from the high-octane saturation typical of mass-market spreads, this project leans into an austere, monochromatic visual language that prioritizes intimacy and character study. By utilizing a minimalist studio setting and soft natural light, the creative team strips away distraction to focus entirely on the subject, resulting in a series of images that channel a deeply cinematic quality. Fashion editor Karolina Gruszecka curates a wardrobe of understated staples—denim jackets and crisp t-shirts—that anchor the visuals in timelessness, while the high-key lighting approach accentuates Murphy's familiar, sharp features. The deliberate use of negative space and tightly composed profiles transforms these portraits into a cohesive study of quiet intensity. With expert retouching by Maria Bieluszko ensuring a flawless, tactile skin finish, the project oscillates between the polished perfection of a magazine cover and the raw, behind-the-scenes authenticity of a professional portrait session. Ultimately, this collaboration proves the enduring power of editorial minimalism, demonstrating how a pared-back aesthetic can capture a subject’s personality more effectively than complex set designs, cementing its status as a standout piece of contemporary media and entertainment portrait photography that feels both classic and distinctly current.

Editorial, Vertical

Natural light

Magazines, Media & Entertainment