Richard Blanshard is a celebrated figure in the world of photography, known for his compelling portfolio as an award-winning photographer, director, and director of photography. With a career that spans decades, Blanshard has made his mark as the official photographer for the US and UK film industries at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival for over twenty years.
His journey into the cinematic world began as a stills photographer on feature films and television. Over the years, he gained recognition as a prominent figure in the industry, represented by the esteemed Sygma agency in Paris. Today, his remarkable archive of still images is hosted by Getty Images, showcasing a visual history of cinema.
This September, Blanshard released his latest project, a captivating book titled Cannes Uncut: The Golden Years. The book, which spans 224 pages, is not just a collection of stunning photographs but also serves as a companion piece to a documentary that premiered on September 23 at Soho House in London. Blanshard co-directed the documentary with Roger Penny and was director of photography on the documentary and he was also a producer with Mark Adams, Chrisitopher Pickard and Colin Burrows.
The book is different to the film, it is a personal photographic journey of the photographer over 20 years. The Film is the story of Cannes from its beginning until today. Cannes Uncut film explores the rich tapestry of the Cannes Film Festival’s history, showcasing the glamour, excitement, and artistry that have defined this iconic event for over eighty years. Through a lens of nostalgia and anticipation, the film features a stellar lineup of personalities, including legendary filmmaker Quentin Tarantino, acclaimed director Sean Baker, and celebrated actresses Léa Seydoux, Tilda Swinton, Sharon Stone, and Juliette Binoche, among many others.
The book is available on Amazon and various other online retailers, as well as in bookstores across the UK. It offers readers a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of Cannes, where Blanshard’s photographs immortalize the candid moments of stars and industry icons long before the era of social media and smartphones.
Blanshard’s career began in 1976 when, at just 22 years old, he stepped foot on the Cannes Film Festival grounds for the very first time. His initial assignment was nothing short of legendary—photographing Hollywood legends Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly as they promoted their film That’s Entertainment, Part II. This was merely the beginning of a remarkable journey, during which he had unparalleled access to the stars as they navigated the glamour and excitement of Cannes.
Unlike today, where the focus is predominantly on the red carpet, Blanshard managed to capture the authentic atmosphere of the festival. His photographs showcase the blend of glitz and everyday moments, providing a unique perspective on the lives of celebrities as they worked, partied, and relaxed. In a time when publicists and actors are increasingly cautious about their public images, Blanshard’s collection stands out as a rare treasure that offers an unfiltered glimpse into the world of film.
Cannes Uncut: The Golden Years is more than just a collection of photographs; it is a nostalgic journey that chronicles the evolution of the Cannes Film Festival and the stars who graced its shores. With his unprecedented access and keen eye, Blanshard has preserved a slice of film history that will resonate with cinema lovers for generations to come.
Leave a Reply