by Editor Peter Davidson
Edited and published by Yvette Depaepe, the 15th of June 2023

Our next Iconic Photographer is Lord Snowden.

I thought it interesting to introduce you to Lord Snowden at the current time of writing as there is another commoner making waves in the Royal family, together with many lurid headlines around the world. Armstrong-Jones, as he was then known, created many headlines too, but integrated himself into the Royal family with a little better success than the current generation. As I write, the infamous pair of whom I refer, are currently on their 'World Privacy Tour'. (Interrupted only briefly by yet another court case). 

Anthony Armstrong-Jones, better known as Lord Snowden, was already a renowned British photographer before he met Royalty. Admittedly, this did give a slight boost to his career. But his unique perspective and images captured the essence of his subjects, already making him one of the most celebrated photographers of his time. As a side note, I did once meet Snowden briefly, while in his capacity as one of the judges with the British Red Cross, where I had won a minor photographic award. He was entirley charming.  From his royal connections to his artistic vision, Lord Snowden's life and work continue to inspire and influence generations of photographers.

Born on March 7, 1930, in London, England, Anthony Armstrong-Jones was the son of a barrister. Educated at Eton College and later at Jesus College, Cambridge, he developed an early interest in photography. Armed with a natural talent for capturing the extraordinary in the ordinary, he embarked on a journey that would establish him as a master of his craft.

Armstrong-Jones' breakthrough moment came in 1958 when he was commissioned to photograph the British royal family. His intimate and unguarded images of the royal subjects garnered widespread acclaim and introduced him to a wider audience. This opportunity also led to a personal connection with Princess Margaret, the sister of Queen Elizabeth II. They eventually married in 1960, granting him the title of Lord Snowden.

Throughout his career, Lord Snowden's work spanned various genres, from photojournalism to portraiture. He had a keen eye for capturing the essence of his subjects, revealing their vulnerability, strength, and innermost emotions. His ability to establish a sense of trust with his subjects allowed him to create images that were both revealing and intimate.

Yet Lord Snowden's work extended beyond the realm of celebrity and royalty. He also had a deep interest in documenting the social landscape and capturing the spirit of the times. His images of everyday people and ordinary scenes revealed a unique sensitivity to the human condition. Whether it was capturing the vibrancy of the swinging sixties or the struggles of marginalized communities, Lord Snowden's photographs reflected the social and cultural dynamics of the era.

In addition to his remarkable talent as a photographer, Lord Snowden was also an innovator. He embraced new technologies and techniques, constantly pushing the boundaries of the medium. His experimentation with different lighting techniques, composition styles, and printing processes showcased his commitment to pushing the art of photography forward.

Lord Snowden's contributions to the world of photography were widely recognized. He received numerous awards and honours throughout his career, including the Royal Photographic Society's Progress Medal and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Lucie Foundation. His work has been exhibited in prestigious galleries around the world, and his images have become part of the collective consciousness.

Lord Snowden's legacy extends beyond his artistic achievements. His influence as a mentor and teacher inspired a new generation of photographers. He served as the president of the Royal Photographic Society and played an instrumental role in elevating the status of photography as a respected art form.

On January 13, 2017, Lord Snowden passed away, leaving behind a body of work that continues to captivate and inspire. His photographs remain timeless, evoking emotions and provoking contemplative thoughts in viewers. Lord Snowden's ability to capture the essence of his subjects, his commitment to pushing the boundaries of the medium, and his dedication to elevating photography as an art form make him an enduring figure in the world of photography.

The legacy of Lord Snowden serves as a reminder of the power of the lens and the transformative nature of photography. His images transcend time, allowing us to glimpse into the lives of the exulted as well as the ordinary.