Norman Parkinson

Norman Parkinson was a prominent English portrait and fashion photographer, born in 1913 and passing in 1990. He is celebrated for his innovative approach to fashion photography, notably moving his subjects out of the confines of the studio and into dynamic outdoor settings. This shift not only revolutionized British fashion photography but also set new standards in the industry. Parkinson's career took a significant turn during World War II when he served as a Royal Air Force photographer and began working with Vogue magazine, where he discovered several iconic models. Parkinson's work extended beyond fashion; he became an official royal photographer in 1969. His notable royal commissions included photographs for Princess Anne's 19th birthday and the Investiture portrait of Charles III as Prince of Wales. His portraits of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother for her 75th birthday are particularly renowned. Known for incorporating humor into his work, Parkinson's photographs are both elegant and whimsical. Throughout his career, he received numerous accolades, such as the Royal Photographic Society's Progress Medal and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Society of Magazine Photographers. His enduring influence in photography is reflected in the continued admiration and collection of his work.