Antony Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowdon, maintained a multifaceted professional life spanning six decades as a photographer, filmmaker, and designer. Born in Belgravia in 1930, he transitioned from an apprenticeship with the photographer Baron into a prolific career documenting cultural and political figures, while simultaneously contributing to architectural and social reform efforts across the United Kingdom.
Early Development and Education
Armstrong-Jones attended Sandroyd School and Eton College, where he participated in boxing and rowing. He entered Jesus College at the University of Cambridge to study architecture but did not finish the program. A significant formative experience occurred at age 16 when he contracted polio. He spent six months at the Liverpool Royal Infirmary, resulting in a permanent limp and a shorter left leg, an experience that influenced his later focus on accessibility and the needs of disabled populations.
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His professional rise began in a London flat that served as both studio and residence. Initially focused on theatrical portraits facilitated by his uncle, Oliver Messel, his reach expanded through commissions for Tatler and Queen magazine. As artistic adviser to The Sunday Times Magazine, he cultivated a reputation for sharp portraiture. His archive includes subjects ranging from Laurence Olivier and Iris Murdoch to David Bowie and the rock band Queen. Over 280 of his works are held within the National Portrait Gallery.
Filmmaking and Public Advocacy
Beyond still photography, he directed documentary films for CBS. His 1968 production, Don't Count the Candles, which examined the aging process, secured two Emmy Awards. He continued producing documentaries throughout the 1970s, including studies on people with restricted growth and the relationship between the British and animals. As a member of the House of Lords from 1961 until 2016, he leveraged his position to advocate for infrastructure improvements and accessibility reforms for disabled citizens.
Royal Life and Recognition
Following his 1960 marriage to Princess Margaret, he was created Earl of Snowdon. His official duties included capturing portraits of Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh during their 1957 Canadian tour. He received several honors, including the Royal Designer for Industry in 1978 and the Lucie Award in 2007. He was a Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order. Armstrong-Jones died in 2017 at his home in Kensington and was interred at St Baglan's Church.
Fast facts
- Born: 1930, Belgravia
- Died: 2017, Kensington
- Education: Eton College; Jesus College
- Parliamentary Service: 1961–2016
- Key Award: Royal Designer for Industry, 1978
- Major Exhibition: National Portrait Gallery, 2000
Questions readers ask
Did Antony Armstrong-Jones complete his university degree?
No, he attended Jesus College at Cambridge to study architecture but failed his second-year examinations and did not graduate.
What was his primary contribution to social policy?
He was a committed advocate for disabled people and helped shape infrastructure and accessibility policies in the United Kingdom while serving in the House of Lords.
Achievements
- Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order
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