Passport Photo Service

For decades, Philip Sharkey quietly dominated the London scene of passport and visa photography, becoming the most trusted and admired figure in the industry. Those fortunate enough to find themselves in front of his lens often felt they had been initiated into an exclusive club. Stephen Fry describes this beautifully crafted memoir as a vivid reminder of a bygone era in the capital. Since its establishment in 1953, the modest studio known as Passport Photo Service on Oxford Street captured countless people for passports, visas, and green cards, some of whom were prominent figures. Founded by former professional boxer Dave Sharkey, his wife Ann, and later joined by their son Philip, the studio's location near the US embassy and across from Selfridges made it a prime choice for quick photo service, thanks to its 'Ready in 10 Minutes' promise.This delightful book features a collection of over 300 previously unpublished portraits from the studio's six decades, showcasing actors, musicians, writers, politicians, and more. Organized in a loose alphabetical order, the book presents iconic individuals such as Muhammad Ali, Shirley Bassey, Eric Clapton, John Cleese, Joan Collins, Sean Connery, and many others. More than one hundred portraits come with entertaining anecdotes by Philip Sharkey, including stories of Errol Flynn's booming entrance and Bianca Jagger's hat dispute.In his introduction, Sharkey shares a brief history of the family business, noting that regardless of fame, everyone received the same care and respect. He emphasizes that the moment your passport photo is taken, it acts as a great equalizer. Ideal for photography enthusiasts, fans of London history, or celebrity followers, the book's design pays tribute to both the art of the passport and the studio's signature photo wallets. It offers a refreshing perspective on the significance of vernacular photography and highlights how even travel document images can be compelling portraits.