Before I graduated from Falmouth University there was a portrait I was eager to take - my own tribute to my favourite photographer, Norman Parkinson. “Parks” is one of Britain’s most iconic portrait and fashion pioneers in history @norman_parkinson. I had the honour to photograph his famously stylish talisman hat, (that he wore when working) kindly loaned to be by his last assistant, Will Teakle. It is an item full of character and charm of Parks himself. It was handmade in India. He had several throughout his career however this was his last. When one got old, he would keep the old hat with the new one to rub of its luck before throwing the old one away. I must admit I was a little nervous, as a student to photograph such an iconic piece! 

Before the shoot, I placed the hat on each camera to bless it with its talent and luck. Throughout we played Anita Baker, for Will told me Parks would often play her music in the taxi when driving to the location. I hope the pictures achieve a balance of elegance as well as a little amusement. Parkinson continues to influence aspiring photographers such as myself. I can only hope he would of liked the pictures also.

The model is Emily Gummer. We’ve been friends for years now and she too is an admirer of Parkinson and his work. Thank you for your friendship as well as your unbelievable talent. And thank you to @teeganegerton for assisting on this shoot and your ongoing support. 
Each portrait was shot on hassleblad 120mm film and printed by hand in the darkroom. 
I hope Parks talisman works it’s magic and rubs off its luck for me in the future.

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