The enduring legacy of Karl Lagerfeld — one of the most influential designers in fashion history — continues to shape the worlds of art, photography, and modeling in exciting new ways. In a landmark project, more than 120,000 photographs captured by Lagerfeld himself are being meticulously digitized and preserved for future generations, marking a significant moment for the broader fashion community.

Lagerfeld’s passion for photography began in the late 1980s, when he started shooting editorial photoshoots and advertising campaigns for major fashion publications including Vogue, Numero, and Interview. What makes this archive exceptional isn’t just its size but its breadth — from polished studio shoots with iconic models, to behind-the-scenes moments that reveal how fashion imagery evolves from concept to final frame.

To bring this monumental collection into the digital era, Lagerfeld’s collaborators have entrusted the archive to former Chanel image director Eric Pfrunder, who is overseeing the registration and preservation of the images using blockchain technology. This innovative approach ensures the authenticity and longevity of each photograph, while opening possibilities for presentations across exhibitions, publications, books, and interactive digital formats.

For model agencies and creative professionals, this project offers a rare, curated view into Lagerfeld’s vision — a treasure trove of visual references that span decades of fashion history. As the digitized collection becomes available, models and photographers alike will gain inspiration from Lagerfeld’s artistic eye, his composition techniques, and the dynamic ways he collaborated with talent to create unforgettable imagery.

Beyond its technical significance, the digitization celebrates Lagerfeld’s unique understanding of fashion as a blend of performance and visual storytelling. His work — whether behind the camera or designing dramatic runway shows — left an indelible impact on modeling culture and the way fashion narratives are captured and shared.

In a world where digital archives increasingly fuel creativity, this project not only honors Lagerfeld’s genius but invites a new generation of models, photographers, and agencies to explore and reinterpret his vast visual legacy for years to come.