Terry O'Neill

Terry O’Neill CBE is among the most collected photographers globally. For over sixty years, he has captured the essence of fame, photographing fashion, style, celebrities, and pop stars. His work has been showcased in numerous exhibitions. In 2004, he was awarded an honorary fellowship from the Royal Photographic Society, and in 2011, he received the society's Centenary Medal. His work is part of the National Portrait Gallery collection in London. 

Terry O'Neill Early Life

O'Neill was born to Irish parents in Romford, Essex. He began his career working in a photographic unit for an airline at London's Heathrow Airport. During this time,

he photographed a sleeping figure in a waiting area, who turned out to be the Home Secretary, Rab Butler. Following this, O'Neill found further employment on Fleet Street with The Daily Sketch in 1959. His first professional assignment was to photograph Laurence Olivier.

How did Terry O'Neill's career begin?

Terry O’Neill began his career at the start of the 1960s. While many photographers focused on issues such as earthquakes, wars, and politics, O’Neill recognised that youth culture was a significant news story on a global scale. He started documenting the emerging personalities of the film, fashion, and music scenes that now define the Swinging Sixties. 

Which famous people has Terry O'Neill photographed?

During this period, he photographed contemporary celebrities such as David Bowie, Bridget Bardot, Sean Connery and Roger Moore to name a few. Photographs of Elton John by O'Neill are among his most notable works. A selection of these images was featured in the 2008 book, Eltonography. 

He also captured images of members of the British royal family and prominent

politicians, revealing a more human side to these subjects than was typically portrayed. His photographs are noted for capturing his subjects candidly or in unconventional settings.

By 1965, he had regular commissions from the world's leading magazines and newspapers. No other photographer has embraced the full spectrum of fame quite like him, capturing the icons of our time.

Where can I buy a Terry O'Neill print?

Here at 55Max, we have a selection of Terry O’Neill prints signed and numbered by the artist and an edition of 50. Shop Terry O'Neill prints.