I received the news of the recent passing of the Brighton based photographer Roger Bamber at the age of 78. I knew Roger through his interest in steam railways, but eventually realised from seeing his name credited that he took the photographs for the cover of the Be Bop Deluxe album 'Modern Music'. In discussions with him about this photoshoot, he seemed to recall he was called in at short notice to complete the shoot somewhere on the Kings Road and in the early hours of the morning. Does Bill have any recollection of this?
I had recently contacted him to suggest he purchase a copy of the 'Modern Music' boxed set as there were many new images from the album and that he also purchases the recent Mojo magazine with the article on Bill, as the article included the album cover.
Roger had a distinguished career as a Fleet Street and freelance photographer and has a portfolio containing images of other music icons. There was a selection of his photographs published in 'The Guardian' newspaper on Tuesday 13th September and further images can be found on 'The Guardian' website by locating Roger Bamber - A life in Pictures.
Obituary in The Guardian with some of his work
Thank you for sharing the news of Roger's passing - I look forward to reading up on his career, and also seeing the MM photos when I pick up the boxed set (I'm reversing through Bill's Harvest catalogue - first SOS, next DP, etc).
Sad to hear Roger Bamber has died....but very interesting re shooting the Modern Music cover, I do hope Bill will be able to add some detail...but it was a long time ago.
I always loved the MM cover, Bill looked devilishly handsome and the whole band looked fab in their super-sharp, bespoke Italian suits...very cool!😎