The Philip Townsend Archive collects the body of photographs taken by seminal 60s photographer Philip Townsend, documenting Sixties London in full swing and capturing some of the most iconic faces of the era. His unique collection of shots includes, rock stars, society darlings, models and the political movers and shakers of the day.

A selection of images from the black and white archive is available to view on this website. Prints are available to purchase from our open and limited edition collections and all images are available to be licensed for media use.

"A treasure trove of rock history" The London Times

"Philip Townsend, world class portrait photographer" GQ

By Rodger Eldridge

In recent years, after a hip virtually disintegrated, he came close to death when he caught the superbug MRSA in hospital; but, with his hip rebuilt and his zest restored, he is devoting his energies to rescuing his extraordinary photo-legacy of the 1960s, arranging touring exhibitions throughout the world and marketing prints.

Unlike most of his contemporaries from those casual times, Townsend was shrewd enough to keep his copyright. His unique collection is one of the few to remain in the hands of its creator. He once said that "photographing people is like shooting ducks". Few photographers have aimed better - or bagged better trophies.

Roger Eldridge, who sadly died in Novemeber 2007 was a journalist with 40 years experience. He was agent to Lord Snowdon, the Patrick Litchfield Archive and the Karsh Foundation. He was also awarded the LVO for his work as advisor on photography to H. M. The Queen and was also a Director of Camera Press Ltd.