Antony Armstrong Jones: A Life In Photography And Glamour

Who was Antony Armstrong-Jones?

Antony Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowdon (born March 7, 1930, London, Englanddied January 13, 2017, London), was a British photographer and filmmaker. He was best known for his fashion and portrait photography, as well as for his marriage to Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II.

Armstrong-Jones was the son of a barrister and a socialite. He studied photography at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London and began his career as a fashion photographer for Vogue magazine. In 1960, he married Princess Margaret, and the couple had two children, David and Sarah. Armstrong-Jones was created Earl of Snowdon in 1961.

Armstrong-Jones's work as a photographer was often praised for its elegance and style. He photographed many famous people, including the British royal family, celebrities, and politicians. He also directed several films, including the 1969 documentary "Don't Count the Candles" about Princess Margaret's 40th birthday.

Armstrong-Jones and Princess Margaret divorced in 1978. He later married Lucy Lindsay-Hogg in 1978 and Serena Stanhope in 2000.

Armstrong-Jones died on January 13, 2017, at the age of 86.

Armstrong-Jones was a significant figure in British photography and society. His work as a fashion and portrait photographer helped to shape the public image of the British royal family and other celebrities. He was also a pioneer in the use of color photography and other innovative techniques.

Antony Armstrong-Jones

Antony Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowdon, was a multifaceted figure whose life and work encompassed photography, filmmaking, and marriage to royalty. Six key aspects that encapsulate his essence include:

• Photographer
• Fashion
• Royalty
• Filmmaker
• Earl of Snowdon
• Celebrity

As a photographer, Armstrong-Jones captured iconic images of fashion, society, and the British royal family. His fashion photography for Vogue magazine shaped the public's perception of style. His marriage to Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II, thrust him into the world of royalty and made him a celebrity. Armstrong-Jones's filmmaking career included documentaries and feature films, showcasing his artistic vision beyond photography.

1. Photographer

Antony Armstrong-Jones's profession as a photographer was integral to his life and legacy. His passion for photography began at an early age, and he honed his skills while serving in the Royal Air Force during his National Service.

After leaving the RAF, Armstrong-Jones worked as a freelance photographer for various publications, including Vogue magazine. His talent for capturing elegant and stylish images quickly gained recognition, and he soon became one of the most sought-after fashion photographers in the world.

Armstrong-Jones's work as a photographer extended beyond fashion. He also produced memorable portraits of celebrities, politicians, and members of the British royal family. His ability to capture the essence of his subjects, combined with his technical skill, resulted in iconic images that continue to be admired and celebrated.

Armstrong-Jones's photography played a significant role in shaping the public's perception of fashion and society during the mid-20th century. His images helped to define the era's style and glamour, and his work continues to inspire photographers and fashion enthusiasts alike.

2. Fashion

Antony Armstrong-Jones's connection to fashion was multifaceted and profound. His work as a fashion photographer for Vogue magazine significantly shaped the public's perception of style and glamour during the mid-20th century.

Armstrong-Jones's fashion photography was characterized by its elegance, sophistication, and timeless quality. He had a knack for capturing the essence of his subjects, whether they were models, celebrities, or members of the British royal family. His images helped to define the era's style icons and trends.

Beyond his work as a photographer, Armstrong-Jones was also a keen observer and commentator on fashion. He wrote several books on the subject, including Fashion Today (1957) and Women's Wear Daily (1964). In these writings, he shared his insights on the latest trends and the evolution of fashion.

Armstrong-Jones's influence on fashion extended beyond his photography and writings. He was also a close friend and confidant of many leading fashion designers, including Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, and Coco Chanel. He often collaborated with these designers on fashion shoots and other projects.

Armstrong-Jones's connection to fashion was a lifelong passion. He remained actively involved in the fashion world until his death in 2017. His legacy as a fashion photographer and commentator continues to inspire and influence fashion enthusiasts and professionals alike.

3. Royalty

Antony Armstrong-Jones's connection to royalty began in 1960 when he married Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II. This marriage thrust him into the world of royalty and made him a celebrity. Armstrong-Jones became a close confidant of the Queen and other members of the royal family, and he often photographed them in both official and private settings.

Armstrong-Jones's marriage to Princess Margaret was not without its challenges. The couple had two children, David and Sarah, but they divorced in 1978. However, Armstrong-Jones remained close to the royal family and continued to photograph them throughout his life.

Armstrong-Jones's connection to royalty gave him a unique perspective on the British monarchy. He was able to observe the royal family from the inside, and he developed a deep understanding of their traditions and values. This understanding is reflected in his photographs, which often capture the human side of the royal family.

Armstrong-Jones's connection to royalty was a significant part of his life and work. It gave him access to a world that most people can only dream of, and it allowed him to create some of the most iconic images of the British royal family ever taken.

4. Filmmaker

Antony Armstrong-Jones's connection to filmmaking began in the early 1960s when he directed a short film called Privy Council. This film was a satirical look at the British government, and it was well-received by critics. Armstrong-Jones went on to direct several other short films and documentaries, including Don't Count the Candles (1968), a film about Princess Margaret's 40th birthday.

In 1970, Armstrong-Jones directed his first feature film, The Last Run. This film was a thriller starring George C. Scott and Tony Curtis. Armstrong-Jones also directed several other feature films, including Lady Caroline Lamb (1972) and The Walking Stick (1978).

Armstrong-Jones's films were often praised for their visual style and their insightful portrayal of human relationships. He was also a pioneer in the use of new filmmaking techniques, such as the use of handheld cameras and natural lighting.

Armstrong-Jones's connection to filmmaking was a significant part of his life and work. He was a talented filmmaker who made several notable contributions to the art form. His films continue to be enjoyed by audiences around the world.

5. Earl of Snowdon

Antony Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowdon, was a multifaceted figure whose life and work encompassed photography, filmmaking, and marriage to royalty. His title, Earl of Snowdon, was bestowed upon him by Queen Elizabeth II in 1961, following his marriage to Princess Margaret.

• Peerage and Aristocracy
  

  As Earl of Snowdon, Armstrong-Jones became a member of the British peerage, the highest rank of the aristocracy. This elevated his social status and granted him certain privileges and responsibilities within the British social hierarchy.

• Royal Connection
  

  The title of Earl of Snowdon was inextricably linked to his marriage to Princess Margaret, a member of the British royal family. This connection further solidified his ties to the monarchy and gave him a unique perspective on royal life.

• Public Recognition
  

  The title of Earl of Snowdon brought with it a high level of public recognition and attention. Armstrong-Jones became a well-known figure in British society and his work as a photographer and filmmaker gained even greater prominence.

• Artistic Patronage
  

  As Earl of Snowdon, Armstrong-Jones was able to use his influence and connections to support the arts. He was a patron of several cultural institutions and organizations, and he played a role in promoting British art and design on the international stage.

The title of Earl of Snowdon was an integral part of Antony Armstrong-Jones's identity and career. It reflected his social status, his royal connections, and his contributions to British society. Through his work as a photographer, filmmaker, and patron of the arts, Armstrong-Jones left a lasting legacy that continues to be celebrated today.

6. Celebrity

Antony Armstrong-Jones's connection to celebrity was multifaceted and profound. His marriage to Princess Margaret, his work as a fashion photographer, and his own artistic pursuits all contributed to his status as a celebrity.

• Royal Connection
  

  Armstrong-Jones's marriage to Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II, thrust him into the world of royalty and made him a celebrity overnight. His association with the royal family gave him access to exclusive events and social circles, and his photographs of the royals helped to shape the public's perception of them.

• Fashion Icon
  

  As a fashion photographer, Armstrong-Jones was responsible for creating some of the most iconic images of the mid-20th century. His work for Vogue magazine helped to define the era's style and glamour, and he was often photographed with the celebrities and models he photographed.

• Artistic Recognition
  

  Armstrong-Jones was also a talented filmmaker and artist. His films and photographs were often praised for their originality and style, and he was awarded several prestigious awards for his work. His artistic achievements further cemented his status as a celebrity.

• Public Persona
  

  Armstrong-Jones's public persona was carefully cultivated and managed. He was known for his wit, charm, and good looks, and he was often featured in newspapers and magazines. His celebrity status allowed him to use his platform to promote his work and support various causes.

Armstrong-Jones's connection to celebrity was a significant part of his life and work. It gave him access to a world of privilege and opportunity, and it allowed him to make a significant contribution to British culture and society.

FAQs on Antony Armstrong-Jones

This section addresses frequently asked questions regarding Antony Armstrong-Jones, providing concise and informative answers.

Question 1: What was Antony Armstrong-Jones's profession?

Antony Armstrong-Jones was a renowned photographer and filmmaker. He gained prominence for his fashion photography in Vogue magazine and his marriage to Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II.

Question 2: How did Antony Armstrong-Jones become the Earl of Snowdon?

Queen Elizabeth II bestowed the title of Earl of Snowdon upon Antony Armstrong-Jones in 1961, following his marriage to Princess Margaret.

Question 3: What was Antony Armstrong-Jones's connection to the British royal family?

Antony Armstrong-Jones was married to Princess Margaret from 1960 to 1978. Through this marriage, he became the brother-in-law of Queen Elizabeth II and gained close ties to the British royal family.

Question 4: What are some of Antony Armstrong-Jones's notable works as a photographer?

Antony Armstrong-Jones's fashion photography for Vogue magazine played a significant role in shaping the public's perception of style and glamour during the mid-20th century. He also captured iconic portraits of celebrities, politicians, and members of the British royal family.

Question 5: What was Antony Armstrong-Jones's filmmaking style?

Antony Armstrong-Jones's filmmaking style was characterized by its visual flair and insightful portrayal of human relationships. He was also known for his use of innovative techniques, such as handheld cameras and natural lighting.

These FAQs provide a concise overview of Antony Armstrong-Jones's life, work, and legacy. His contributions to photography, filmmaking, and British society continue to be celebrated and admired.

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Conclusion on Antony Armstrong-Jones

Antony Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowdon, was a multifaceted figure whose life and work left an indelible mark on British culture and society. As a photographer, filmmaker, and husband to Princess Margaret, he captured the essence of his era with his unique artistic vision and privileged access to the world of royalty and celebrity.

Armstrong-Jones's fashion photography for Vogue magazine defined the style and glamour of the mid-20th century. His portraits of celebrities and members of the British royal family revealed both their public personas and their private moments. As a filmmaker, he explored human relationships and social issues with sensitivity and insight.

Beyond his artistic achievements, Armstrong-Jones's life was also marked by controversy and personal struggles. His marriage to Princess Margaret ended in divorce, and he faced public scrutiny and criticism at times. Yet, through it all, he remained a charismatic and enigmatic figure who fascinated the public until his death in 2017.

Antony Armstrong-Jones's legacy is complex and multifaceted. He was a talented artist, a member of the British aristocracy, and a celebrity in his own right. His work continues to inspire and provoke, and his life story offers a glimpse into the glamour, intrigue, and contradictions of the 20th century.