Queen Elizabeth II died this morning at 96. She was among the top-photographed human beings of the 20th century her passion for photography was not a secret. Her final days as a British monarch was frequently photographed using a camera. Indeed, photos of her talking to photographers and looking over camera equipment are abundant.
To honor her life and love for images, we’ve collected the best images from Queen Elizabeth II her photographer. Each photo shows her sporting various cameras, ranging from a vintage Rollei 35 to an antique Kodak home film camera. These are just a few highlights from her collection.
Leica M3
In the case of the queen’s favourite camera we’ll leave it to speculation. However, she was often observed with an silver Leica M3 with an accessory lightmeter, which was mounted on the top. This is not surprising, as the M3 is a classic and, in addition, a reliable tool. While trendy celebs might carry Leicas nowadays for prestige however, the queen Elizabeth II was carrying one, and actually using it, for years before. This is a real iconic image.
Leica M6
In the past, however it seems that her majesty changed the Leica M3 to get an updated Leica M6 that has an integrated lightmeter, in addition to other improvements. Perhaps it was an effort to simplify her equipment? Since the two cameras have the same design. If this is the case, then there’s something strangely similar to this.
Gold Rollei 35
This is my absolute favourite camera from her majesty’s collection (that I have heard of). It’s not just the Rollei 35 well-known for its design but having it covered in gold is something that’s legendary.
For those who aren’t familiar the camera, it’s among the slimmest 35mm film cameras ever created even though it may be difficult to use (delicate fingers are essential) It’s also capable of amazing results. It’s truly a lover’s camera.
Canon Sure Shot Tele 80
It’s true that this is a bit of a surprise. The image above was taken in the month of May 2000, an era in which digital photography was just beginning to give film a shot for its money. But, as we are aware, the late queen was more interested in cellsuloid rather than silicon. Therefore, instead of grabbing the latest, 3 megapixel Canon Powershot G1 Her Majesty chose an older Canon Sure Shot Tele 80 film camera.
Rolleiflex TLR
Queen Elizabeth II wasn’t only a 35mm photographer She also tried her hand at medium format. In all honesty, I can’t imagine a better medium size camera than the dual lens camera like the Rolleiflex(TLR). They’re fantastic machines to use, and are on par with Leicas. Owning one is proof of the photographer’s equipment.
Kodak 16mm cine camera
A movie camera: While still photography was clearly the queen’s favorite however, she was also interested in filmmaking. In 1953, she was filming using the appropriately called Kodak Royal 16mm spring motor-driven cinema camera.
Here’s another picture that she took from 1965, using an alternative cinema camera. Always at the forefront it’s soothing to imagine the queen of England who was a nerd, soaking up the latest technology and updating her equipment accordingly not just as a stills photographer but also as a video lover too.
From one camera nerd to the next Rest in Peace Your Majesty.
