Arthur Elgort, born on August 8, 1940, in New York City, NY, was raised in a creative and artistic environment. His parents were of Russian-Jewish descent, and from a young age, Elgort showed a talent and passion for the arts. After graduating from high school, he decided to pursue his education at Hunter College, where he studied painting.
Although Elgort initially trained as a painter, he eventually found his true calling in photography. It was during his time at Hunter College that he discovered his love for capturing images and telling stories through a lens. After completing his studies, Elgort began his career by working as an apprentice for renowned photographer Gus Peterson. This experience allowed him to refine his skills and develop his own unique style.
Elgort's breakthrough came in the 1970s when he started working for the British edition of Vogue magazine. His fresh and innovative approach to fashion photography stood out in the industry, and he quickly gained recognition for his "snapshot"-like style. Elgort's images were dynamic, spontaneous, and full of energy, capturing the essence of the moment in a way that had never been seen before.
Elgort's work was not only celebrated by the fashion world but also by the art community. His photographs were displayed permanently at prestigious institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, Texas. His influence extended far beyond his own work, inspiring generations of photographers to embrace a more candid and naturalistic approach to fashion photography.
Aside from his successful career, Elgort also found happiness in his personal life. He married Grethe Barrett Holby, a talented theater director, producer, and choreographer, with whom he raised three children. Their son, Ansel Elgort, followed in his father's footsteps and became a successful film actor, while their daughter, Sophie Elgort, pursued a career as a fashion photographer.
Throughout his life, Arthur Elgort remained dedicated to his craft, always pushing the boundaries of fashion photography and capturing the beauty and spontaneity of the world around him. His legacy continues to inspire and influence aspiring photographers and artists worldwide.