Internationally known photographer Philippe Halsman speaking at the 19th. annual convention of the Florida Professional Photographers organization photographed by Jacksonville Beach photographer Virgil Deane. Halsman held the record for the most photographs to appear on the covers of Life Magazine with 101. He collaborated with artist Salvador Dali on projects for over 35 years making iconic images of the creative master. He also become known for his Jump series that he started in the 1950’s. At the end of his scheduled photo shoot he would ask his subjects, usually famous celebrities or political figures, to jump for his camera and he would photograph them. A collection of those images was published in book form in 1959. Halsman died in 1979.
According to Kaye Newsome, the current Executive Director of the Florida Professional Photographers organization, Virgil Deane was the president of the group in 1955, so I would assume this photograph was taken around that time.
Tags: convention, Florida Professional Photographers, historic photography, Life, LIFE Magazine, Philippe Halsman, photographer, vintage photograph, virgil deane
Bill:
I stumbled across your vintage Jacksonville website the other day and have fallen in love with it. Although I was not born in Jacksonville nor grew up a Jacksonvillian, I have always had a soft spot in my heart for this city.
I was wondering if by chance you came across in your collection by Mr. Sandgren, a photo of the old Seashole Funeral Parlor building. As one who spent my career in Funeral Service, I have heard much about this mortuary business which has long ceased operations by many decades.
I understand that in their heyday – during the 40’s and 50’s – they were considered a prominent funeral establishment of Jacksonville. If you might find one, I’d greatly appreciate you publishing it in your periodical publications.
Still, I enjoy your photos by Mr. Sandgren that you reproduce, and trust you do not mind the comments I occasionally make of some of them.
Regards.
Don Webb
alabamaindependent@charter.net