Renowned French photographer Patrick Demarchelier, known for his portraits of Princess Diana, has died age 78.
Over his lengthy career, Demarchelier worked with high-profile figures including the late royal, who was once described as a ‘dream’, as well as , , and .
The news of his death was announced by his representatives on Instagram on Thursday.
A statement read: ‘It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Patrick Demarchelier on March 31st 2022, at the age of 78.
‘He is survived by his wife Mia, his three sons Gustaf, Arthur, Victor and three grandchildren.’
During his career behind the camera Demarchelier also produced the cover for the 1991 December issue front cover of Vogue, which featured Diana and is one of the most well-known images of the Princess.
Demarchelier worked for a multitude of other top magazines including Harper’s Bazaar, Elle and Rolling Stone as well as many high-end fashion brands and helped shoot advertisement campaigns for Dior, Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, Tommy Hilfiger and Carolina Herrera.
His prowess in the industry even earned him a mention in 2006 film The Devil Wears Prada, when he is sought after by fashion juggernaut Miranda Priestly, played by Meryl Streep; his last name a source of confusion for Anne Hathaway’s Andrea Sachs.
Tributes have come in for Demarchelier from the likes of US designer Vera Wang, as well as models including Bella Hadid, Cindy Crawford and Hailey Bieber.
Wang said she was ‘saddened to the core’ by the news and would ‘always treasure’ Demarchelier’s talent and kindness.
Sharing a picture of one of their final shoots together she wrote: ‘We began our fashion journey together on a SHOPHOUND shoot for American Vogue where he met his wife Mia.
‘I will always treasure his talent, his kindness and our long history. So many sittings for Vogue, then ad campaigns for Vera Wang, the company.
‘I am saddened to the core. To his wife and family, I send my love. May he rest in peace forever more.’
Celebrity hair stylist Sam McKnight, who also worked with Diana, said he had ‘so much’ to thank Demarchelier for, replying to the original post: ‘Oh I am so sad to hear this.
‘I had the BEST TIMES with Patrick, endless incredible iconic photos, wonderful memories, a lifetime of laughter, I have so much to thank him for, there will never be another.
‘Condolences to his beloved family.’
Posting on his own Instagram he added: ‘Oh, dear Patrick, how you made us laugh. Thank you for having me around for the beautiful ride. Rest in Peace my friend.’
Model Hadid said: ‘I am grateful to have been lucky enough to be in front of your lens.
‘Most gentle , most legendary , soft but full of life . You will be missed Patrick. Rest In Peace. I will miss this day, and you dear Patrick.’
Sharing pictures of herself taken by Demarchelier, Crawford said: ‘Rest In Peace, @patrickdemarchelier. Thanks for so many great memories and beautiful, timeless images.’
Actress Kate Hudson added she had ‘always enjoyed’ working with the photographer and sent a ‘ton of love’ to his family.
She wrote: ‘So many memories. I had the pleasure of being photographed by Patrick often and always enjoyed him and his team so much.
‘Sending a ton of love to his family.’
Singer Ciara also chimed in, sharing her own shot from Demarchelier to Twitter and writing: ‘I’ll never forget the special moment of being shot by the Legendary photographer Patrick Demarchelier. It was a dream come true. He was so sweet. He was also one of my favorite photographers. His work will live on to inspire so many. ❤️’
