Earl Snowdon: A Master of Photography and the Art of Society

Introduction

Anthony Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowdon, was a renowned British photographer, filmmaker, and designer. Born into an aristocratic family in 1930, Snowdon became known for his iconic portraits of British royalty, celebrities, and commoners alike. His work captured the essence of the Swinging Sixties and helped shape the public image of the British monarchy.

Early Life and Career

Snowdon's interest in photography began at a young age. After serving in the Grenadier Guards during National Service, he studied photography at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London. Upon completing his studies, Snowdon worked as a freelance photographer for various publications, including Tatler and Queen.

Royal Photographer

In 1956, Snowdon was commissioned by the British government to photograph the engagement of Princess Margaret and Anthony Armstrong-Jones. The resulting images, which captured the couple's youthful exuberance and love, propelled Snowdon to prominence.

Following his marriage to Princess Margaret in 1960, Snowdon became the official photographer for the Royal Family. His intimate and candid portraits of the Queen, Prince Philip, and their children provided a glimpse into the private lives of the British royals.

Artistic Style

Snowdon's photography was characterized by its sharp focus, simple compositions, and elegant lighting. He often used natural light and avoided elaborate staging. His work was also known for its sense of humor and wit.

Filmmaking and Design

In addition to his photography, Snowdon also directed several documentaries and television films, including the Academy Award-winning "Don't Count the Candles" (1968). He also designed furniture, jewelry, and interiors, showcasing his versatility as a creative artist.

Personal Life

Snowdon's marriage to Princess Margaret was often tumultuous, and the couple divorced in 1978. He subsequently married Lucy Lindsay-Hogg in 1993. Snowdon had two children, David Armstrong-Jones, 2nd Earl of Snowdon, and Lady Sarah Chatto.

Legacy

Anthony Armstrong-Jones, Earl of Snowdon, died in 2017. He left behind a vast body of work that continues to be admired and celebrated. His iconic photographs captured the spirit of the Swinging Sixties, documented the British monarchy, and inspired countless aspiring photographers.

Contributions to Photography

Snowdon's contributions to photography are numerous and significant:

• Popularized candid and natural portraits of celebrities and public figures.
• Helped shape the public image of the British monarchy through his intimate and revealing portraits.
• Influenced the development of fashion and celebrity photography with his stylish and glamorous images.
• Raised the profile of photography as an art form through his exhibitions and publications.

Table 1: Iconic Images by Earl Snowdon

Table 2: Exhibitions and Publications

Table 3: Awards and Recognition

Humorous Stories

1. The Queen's Hat:

During a photo shoot with Queen Elizabeth II, Snowdon asked her to remove her hat. To his surprise, the Queen responded, "I'm not taking off my hat. It's not morning anymore." The photographer had accidentally scheduled the shoot for the afternoon, forgetting that the Queen only wore hats in the morning.

2. The Beatles' Wardrobe:

When Snowdon photographed the Beatles for the cover of "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band," he was presented with an assortment of bizarre outfits. Amused by the group's eclectic style, Snowdon asked if they would ever consider wearing uniforms. The Beatles replied, "No, we're not the Monkees."

3. The Smoking Pit:

Snowdon was once invited to a private party at Buckingham Palace. As he was making his rounds, he noticed a group of people huddled together in a corner. Curiosity getting the better of him, he approached the group and asked what they were doing. One of the guests replied, "We're having a private smoking pit." Snowdon chuckled and remarked, "I didn't know the royal family smoked."

What We Learn

• It's important to be prepared and organized, even when working with high-profile subjects.
• Embracing eccentricity can lead to memorable and iconic images.
• Even the most formal of institutions can have a sense of humor.

Pros and Cons of Earl Snowdon's Photography

Pros:

• Iconic and memorable images: Snowdon's photographs have become part of British cultural history.
• Intimate and candid portraits: His portraits captured the true personalities of his subjects.
• Influential on fashion and celebrity photography: Snowdon's work helped shape the way celebrities are portrayed in the media.

Cons:

• May have exploited his royal connections: Some critics argue that Snowdon used his relationship with Princess Margaret to gain access to high-profile subjects.
• Not always technically perfect: Snowdon's focus on capturing the moment sometimes sacrificed technical precision.

FAQs

1. What was Earl Snowdon's real name?

Anthony Armstrong-Jones

2. When was Snowdon born?

March 7, 1930

3. Who did Snowdon marry?

Princess Margaret (1960-1978), Lucy Lindsay-Hogg (1993)

4. What was Snowdon's official role within the Royal Family?

Official photographer

5. What was Snowdon's nickname?

Tony

6. When did Snowdon die?

January 13, 2017

7. Where is Snowdon's work currently exhibited?

National Portrait Gallery, London; Victoria and Albert Museum, London; Getty Images Gallery, London

8. What was Snowdon's net worth at the time of his death?

Estimated at £30 million