No one could sum up the work of Slim Aarons better than the man himself, who described it as ‘attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places’. From the French Riviera to Mustique, Aarons offered a rare view inside the homes and haunts of celebrities, socialites and the aristocracy. Despite his impressive network, Aarons remained a detached observer, avoiding personal involvement with his subjects. ‘He had absolutely no desire to hang out with his subjects at the end of the day and he did not expect invitations to the yacht or the exclusive club,’ Aarons’ former assistant Laura Hawk told The Guardian in 2016. This approach allowed him to develop a distinctive style which presented an impossibly perfect version of the world, characterised by vibrant colours and romanticised settings. A pioneer of environmental photography, his enduring influence can also be seen in modern travel photography.

Madame Yevonde

In her famous 1935 ‘Goddesses’ series, Yevonde cast society beauties as figures of ancient Greek myth. Here, Lady Alexandra Haig is styled as the sorceress Circe; The Hon Delphi Primrose recreates Yevonde’s portrait of Lady Alexandra

left: © National Portrait Gallery, London; right: Luc Braquet for Tatler

Yevonde Middleton, the British photographer known as Madame Yevonde, stands as one of the most influential society photographers of all time thanks to her pioneering work in colour portraiture. Fearlessly embracing the then new medium, she utilised the ground-breaking Vivex colour process to create vivid and imaginative portraits of notable figures during the 1930s. Drawing inspiration from classical literature and art, the pictures featured dramatic lighting, elaborate costumes, and mythical themes. Her landmark series ‘Goddesses’, in which society swans were portrayed as mythical goddesses was reimagined by Tatler with some of today’s most impressive and influential young women. Yevonde, a successful female studio photographer in a predominantly male-dominated field, broke gender barriers and inspired future generations. Her timeless influence continues to be recognised and celebrated, most recently in the National Portrait Gallery exhibition ‘Yevonde: Life and Colour’, which runs until 15 October.

Richard Avedon

Richard Avedon’s legacy as one of the most influential society photographers is marked by his iconic images that redefined the genre. With striking simplicity and raw intensity, he captured the essence of his subjects against stark backgrounds and within minimalistic settings in order to focus on their expressions and emotions. Avedon’s groundbreaking approach to fashion photography elevated it to an art form, evoking deep emotion and revealing the humanity of his subjects. From the Kennedys to the Vanderbilts, a who’s who of the day’s grandest families agreed to pose for Avedon. His transformative impact on the industry continues to be celebrated, as seen in exhibitions like ‘Avendon: Glamorous’, open at Hamiltons Gallery until 11 August.

Norman Parkinson