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Norman ParkinsonBritish photographer
Date of Birth: 21.04.1913
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Norman Parkinson: A Photographic Legacy
- Early Career and Studio Establishment
- Wartime Service and Vogue
- Marriage and Transition to Queen
- Fashion Icon and Celebrity Photographer
- Legacy and Philosophical Views
- Death and Legacy
Norman Parkinson: A Photographic Legacy
Early Life and EducationBorn Ronald William Parkinson Smith in London in 1913, Norman Parkinson began his journey in photography as an apprentice at Speaight and Sons Ltd in 1931. He attended Westminster School and developed a keen interest in photography.
Early Career and Studio Establishment
In 1934, Parkinson co-founded a photography studio with Norman Kibblewhite. His distinctive style, characterized by British humor, admiration for beauty, and constant experimentation, emerged during the 1930s. From 1935 to 1940, he worked as a photographer for Harper's Bazaar and The Bystander.
Wartime Service and Vogue
During World War II, Parkinson served as a photographer in the Royal Air Force Intelligence. After the war, he returned to photography and became a staff photographer for Vogue magazine in 1945.
Marriage and Transition to Queen
In 1947, Parkinson married actress and model Wenda Rogerson. In 1960, he left Vogue to join Queen magazine as an editor.
Fashion Icon and Celebrity Photographer
Throughout his 50-year career, Parkinson created iconic photographs of numerous celebrities. His work shaped fashion photography standards that are still used today. His images portrayed women as enigmatic, sensual, and alluring. Notable subjects include Ava Gardner, Audrey Hepburn, and Isabella Rossellini.
Legacy and Philosophical Views
Despite being hailed as a master of photography, Parkinson famously downplayed his artistic abilities, claiming to be a craftsman rather than an artist. Nevertheless, his photographs became iconic symbols of 20th-century style. He maintained until the end that photography had only an indirect relationship with art. His wry English humor is evident throughout his work.
Death and Legacy
Norman Parkinson passed away on February 15, 1990. By the time of his death, he was recognized as one of Britain's most influential photographers, having captured countless images of celebrities, royalty, and other notable figures. His photographs continue to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.
