One of the first cuttings I discovered in the box was this memorable assignment for the Evening Standard ‘Homes’ section in November 1995.
As with many shoots I was not sure what to expect, however seeing it was Peter Stringfellow I had got a few preconceived ideas, louche Bordello was what crossed my mind, dark corners, soft red lighting, shaggy carpets that sort of thing… hell to photograph. I must say I was pleasantly surprised when I went in, it was more country cottage than louche bordello! I had not met Peter before, he was definitely a woman’s man but he was charming, amusing and very easy to get along with.
I am not sure at whose suggestion it was that Peter settled into a bath full of bubbles with a bottle bubbles (most likely it was his!!) but he certainly embraced the idea with a laugh and the Champagne probably cleared his head from his late night with Courtney Love and her friends.
Once I had finished the bathroom photographs, Peter, safely secured in his dressing gown, was off to the bedroom where he was more than happy to lie down on his bed and gaze fondly up at his reflection, declaring that this was the best position for a chap of his age to get a free instant facelift.
The final picture was him, still in his dressing gown with his cat in the dining room. For me it was time to pack up the gear and let Imogen finish her interview.
To be honest, it was a great fun, memorable afternoon, a huge success, Peter couldn’t have been more accommodating. I hope the pictures show what a funny and self deprecating character he was.
This is a copy of the amusingly observed story by Imogen Edwards-Jones as it appeared in the paper.
