Renowned British society photographer Dafydd Jones has taken a trip down memory lane, revisiting his iconic party pictures from the 1980s and 1990s in a new book titled “New York: High Life / Low Life.” Jones, known for capturing the social scenes of the British and American upper classes, spent three decades documenting the glitz and glamour for publications like The Tatler, The New York Observer, and Vanity Fair.
In a recent interview from his studio in East Sussex, England, Jones reflected on his time in New York, where he rubbed shoulders with Manhattan’s elite. He shared insights into the differences between the party scenes in London and New York, noting the more paranoid nature of New York partygoers and the lack of people falling asleep at events.
Jones also discussed his approach to photography, emphasizing the importance of politeness and respect in his interactions with subjects. He recounted a memorable moment at a party where a fellow photographer’s aggressive behavior stood out in stark contrast to his own.
The photographer delved into some of the more controversial figures he captured on film, including Donald Trump, Jeffrey Epstein, and Rudolph Giuliani. Jones shared his initial impressions of these men and recalled specific events where he interacted with them.
One particularly poignant moment Jones recalled was attending Robert Mapplethorpe’s 42nd birthday party shortly before the artist’s death from AIDS. Jones described the somber atmosphere and his efforts to capture respectful images of Mapplethorpe.
Reflecting on his time in New York, Jones shared a surreal memory of trailing elephants as they made their way through Manhattan late at night. The juxtaposition of the majestic animals against the backdrop of the city’s bustling streets left a lasting impression on the photographer.
With “New York: High Life / Low Life,” Dafydd Jones offers a glimpse into a bygone era of New York’s social scene, capturing both the glitz and the grit of the city’s elite. His candid and evocative images provide a unique perspective on a time and place that continues to fascinate audiences today.
