Norman Parkinson

Date of Birth: April 21, 1913

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: February 15, 1990

Biography

Norman Parkinson, born Ronald William Parkinson Smith, was a seminal British photographer renowned for his significant contributions to fashion photography. He was born in London, England, and his career spanned several decades, during which he became known for his distinctive style that mixed elegance with a sense of spontaneity and humor. Parkinson began his career in 1931, working as an apprentice to the court photographers, Speaight and Sons Ltd. He later opened his own studio in 1934 and quickly gained recognition for his innovative approach to fashion photography. Parkinson worked for prestigious magazines such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Town & Country, capturing images that often featured models in dynamic, outdoor settings as opposed to the static studio shots that were common at the time. His work was characterized by its bold composition, vibrant use of color, and a playful yet sophisticated narrative. Throughout his career, Parkinson worked with many of the era’s most iconic figures, including Audrey Hepburn, The Beatles, and Queen Elizabeth II. His influence extended beyond photography into the broader cultural landscape, leaving an indelible mark on the art of visual storytelling.

5 Interesting Facts about Norman Parkinson

1. Norman Parkinson was originally named Ronald William Parkinson Smith before he changed his name for professional reasons.

2. He was awarded a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in 1981 for his services to photography.

3. Parkinson was known for his adventurous spirit, often traveling to exotic locations for his shoots, which was unconventional at the time.

4. He photographed Queen Elizabeth II on multiple occasions, including the official portrait for her Silver Jubilee in 1977.

5. Parkinson had a distinctive personal style, often seen wearing a signature wide-brimmed hat and red socks.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Norman Parkinson

1. “The camera can be the most deadly weapon since the assassin’s bullet. Or it can be the lotion of the heart.”

2. “I like to make people look as good as they’d like to look, and with luck, a lot better than they hoped they’d look.”

3. “Photography is the most immediate of the arts.”

4. “If ever I have to take a particularly difficult photograph, I always think of it as a page from a magazine.”

5. “A photographer without a magazine behind him is like a farmer without fields.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Norman Parkinson’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.

Children

Norman Parkinson had two children with his first wife, Margaret, whom he married in 1935. His second marriage to actress and model Wenda Rogerson also produced a son. Parkinson’s children have largely stayed out of the public eye, maintaining a private life away from the limelight.