In the book The paparazzi of the Republic where photographers stingy with anecdotes reveal behind the scenes of the shots that have marked the history of the various presidents, Jacques Chirac appears there. Excerpts from the passage were published in the Gala of 4 March.
This photograph that displeased the president. It all started when Claude Chirac made contact with Alain Genestar, boss of Paris Matchto confirm that Jacques Chirac is leaving to carry out a project with the magazine. In reality, it was his daughter who forced him to accept according to the excerpts from the book The paparazzi of the Republic appeared in the magazine Gala of March 4. The latter even has an idea in mind: the president must pose with his grandson, Martinson of Claude Chirac and former judo star, Thierry Rey.
It’s hard to refuse such an offer. Then the negotiations begin. The child’s mother wish a “photo signed and assumed” taken by a trusted photographer. And not a “fake paparazzi”. And for good reason, it has a very specific requirement: photograph the child from three quarters so that it is not recognizable. Out of the question for her that her face is plastered everywhere. The chosen reporter, Eric Hadj, then recounts having “waited several hours before Chirac appeared alone with the little one.” Until the president gives him a sign. “He let me work, without worrying about my presence. An incredible moment of intimacy” he remembers. The photographer then immortalizes the president alongside his grandson. But why is it “is furious” ?
Claude Chirac unhappy
As a photographer, taking this shot is an honor. The reporter is up to the odds. He did not expect Claude Chirac to come and bring him down from his little cloud. Dissatisfied with the result published in the press on May 4, 2000, Claude Chirac loses his temper. On the phone with Alain Genestar, she doesn’t mince words. The reason for his annoyance? Her son, according to her, is perfectly recognizable on the published photographs in the magazine. Wishing to prove that she is not the only one to have this opinion, Claude Chirac insists to his interlocutor: “The president is furious.” Maybe there was a misunderstanding…
Photo credits: BEST_IMAGE
