At a time when digital visuals dominate the entertainment landscape, the impact of the right photograph can steal headlines, shape narratives, and forever alter perceptions of public figures. As Shakira embarked on her world tour for "Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran," anticipation soared; she not only aimed to provide an unforgettable experience for fans but also to cement her legacy as a music icon. However, behind the spotlight's glare lies the work of French photographer Nicolas Gerardin, who masterfully captures both the exuberance and the vulnerability of Shakira's journey. His remarkable ability to depict the stage's electric energy and the quiet moments away from it resonates with audiences and fans, inviting them into the intimate world of this global superstar.
Shakira, a Colombian singer-songwriter, has long been regarded as a transformative figure in music, breaking cultural and language barriers. With a career spanning several decades and featuring countless hits across various genres, her influence is profound. The "Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran" tour, which kicked off in February 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, exemplifies this impact. The album preceding the tour sent waves through the music industry, not only earning critical accolades but also connecting deeply with fans who resonate with its themes of empowerment and personal transformation.
This tour represents not only a series of concerts but an artistic expression reflecting Shakira's journey and evolution. It is a celebration of resilience, femininity, and cultural pride, encapsulating everything that her dedicated fan base adores.
Nicolas Gerardin's collaboration with Shakira initiated during a pivotal moment in her career — following her collaboration with Bizarrap. Recognized for his work with global celebrities from Lisa of BLACKPINK to Cristiano Ronaldo, he brings an unparalleled blend of artistic precision and emotional storytelling to his photography. His unique approach captures not just the performances but the essence of Shakira’s multifaceted persona, providing viewers with a deeper connection to the artist.
“When photographing Shakira, I focus on capturing what makes her a legend — her presence, energy, and the essence that has made her an icon for decades,” Gerardin explained in a recent interview. His goal is to expose her artistry and the depth of her emotional impact in each shot. Photographs taken during the tour encapsulate the flamboyant performances alongside quieter moments that define her artistry — a long embrace with a fan, a moment of laughter backstage, or the sheer exhaustion after a pulsating show.
Gerardin emphasizes that Shakira's hands-on approach makes every performance a collective effort between her, the production team, and him as a photographer. “She’s aware of everything, from production to lighting. She knows everything about cameras; she knows what’s best for her,” he reported, highlighting her active participation in the artistic process.
Gerardin's lens zeroes in on the intricate tapestry of Shakira's life, weaving together moments that often go unnoticed by the general public. From her applying makeup moments before stepping on stage to the candid interactions with her crew, Gerardin’s photography illuminates a more personal narrative. “I want to create an iconic image that stays forever,” he articulates. In this grounding intimacy, viewers find a relatable and authentic look into the life of a woman captivating the world.
In pursuit of authenticity, Gerardin’s photography goes beyond glamour to capture Shakira's emotions, portraying her as a relatable individual amid the rock-star façade. “She’s a woman full of emotion, very sensitive. She’s caring for everyone... She wants to give the best for the fans,” he shares. The photographer’s aim to encapsulate raw emotion is evident—every shot transcends the mere visual to evoke feelings in the audience.
Gerardin's innovative approach reflects his deep understanding of fashion photography, allowing him to utilize aesthetic elements to complement Shakira's artistic vision. Among his favorites is a high-concept promotional shoot for "Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran," where Gerardin captured Shakira arm wrestling a male counterpart, symbolizing strength and boldness. “It was an exciting challenge because I wanted to capture both her strength and the bold energy of the album while keeping the visual storytelling dynamic and impactful,” Gerardin recalls, a testament to the creative freedom Shakira allows him.
Shakira embodies transformation continually, evolving through various stylistic phases while remaining true to herself. The synergy between her artistic identity and Gerardin’s vision illuminates the collaborative essence of their relationship, ensuring that each image contributes to the ongoing narrative of her career.
Despite his affiliation with Shakira's tour, Gerardin defines himself as more than a concert photographer. His background in fashion photography shapes his viewpoint, allowing him to provide a distinctive angle on the performances. “Most global artists that work in the music industry don’t expect me to shoot the live show. I’m here to capture the fashion side of the tour,” he states, emphasizing the visual consistency that blends the artist’s clothes and performances into a cohesive image.
This perspective separates his work from traditional concert photography, striving for a gallery-like representation of Shakira’s journey instead. Shakira’s artistic evolution, especially under the themes presented in "Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran," exhibits cultural insight and visual storytelling reflecting the spirit of the times.
Gerardin’s creative and professional relationship with Shakira sets a notable precedent for other artists seeking to collaborate with visual storytellers. His approach, combining performance, fashion, and personal life, may well help redefine what concert photography can encompass. As the boundary is pushed further, artists and photographers alike are encouraged to explore the depths of their collaboration, providing fans with richer narratives and deeper insight into the artistic processes behind iconic figures.
As fans increasingly seek ways to connect with their icons, the significance of visual storytelling in music culture becomes ever more apparent. Future collaborations embracing these concepts will likely create connections that extend beyond mere entertainment, tapping into personal narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide.
Nicolas Gerardin's photography encapsulates the essence of Shakira's "Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran" world tour beyond typical concert imagery. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of his subject, Gerardin showcases the artist's journey through performance and personal moments, contributing to a legacy that fans can cherish.
Nicolas Gerardin is a French fashion and celebrity photographer known for his collaborations with high-profile figures across various industries, including music and sports.
Shakira’s "Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran" tour is a global concert series promoting her album of the same name, which emphasizes themes of empowerment and personal transformation.
Gerardin focuses not only on live performances but also on behind-the-scenes moments and fashion, blending elements of storytelling and artistry to create a comprehensive visual narrative.
The partnership has emphasized a collaborative synergy, allowing Shakira's multifaceted persona to shine through while capturing her evolving artistry.
Emotional depth is a core focus; Gerardin’s aim is to depict Shakira’s sensitivity and commitment to her fans, thereby creating a more genuine connection with the audience.
Gerardin’s work is typically showcased through exclusive galleries and features in various media outlets, particularly music publications like Billboard Español.