The Fleet Street Photojournalism & Youth Culture in the 1960s
British popular culture was undergoing a dramatic change in the early 1960s, and photography played a crucial role in capturing this evolution. The emerging music scene needed to be documented, which Terry O’Neill did with vigor and enthusiasm, cementing his place as one of the key figures in the history of photojournalism.
But why is the Rolling Stones photograph important in the photography world? Those who visit the gallery often ask me this question.
The 1963 photographs of The Rolling Stones on Denmark Street, Soho, that I took while trying to avoid the paparazzi, were the start of my career as a serious photographer. By going to the heart of London’s music scene and not using the expected tools to capture a portrait of The Rolling Stones, created images that encapsulated the rebellious spirit of the ‘60s.
Using a 35 mm film meant that one could take photographs from a distance and with less formality than many other photographers at the time. The pictures of The Rolling Stones and their misfit image captured the youthful exuberance of the musicians and allowed them to display their personalities, which contrasted with the more polished pop-group photography of the period.
These photographs are also significant because, from here, you can understand how the changing world of popular music and youth culture influenced photojournalism. In addition, I continued to photograph many iconic musicians in my career, so you can see the evolution of style and approach in my work.
Those interested in the impact of the legendary music scene photographs can view them in the gallery at 16 Waterloo Place, St James’s, London (SW1Y 4AR), or on the website.