Alice Hughes 1857 – 1939
Photographer.
31 August 1857- 4 April 1939
Education
Studied photography at London Royal Polytechnic Institute.
Some Key Achievements and Interests
Was the first female professional portrait photographer.
1891 Opened a studio in Gower Street employing women.
Became a very successful photographer of high society and royalty.
Established photography as a career option for women and pioneered the role of society photographer.
1897 Alice’s portraits were put up at the Victorian Era exhibition in Earl’s Court.
For 21 years was a regularly featured photographer in Country Life magazine.
Issues
Photography not considered a ‘profession’ for women.
Connection to Bloomsbury
Worked at her father’s studio, 52 Gower Street, for 3-4 years then established her own next door.
Female Networks
Only photographed women, either individually or with their children until late in her career so limited her clientele (though she had enough work).
Works
See National Portrait Gallery collection: Alice Hughes – Person – National Portrait Gallery (npg.org.uk)
See report of interview Margaret Bateson conducted with Hughes about her profession and opportunities to those thinking of entering the profession in: Professional Women and their Professions: Conversations recorded by Margaret Bateson online at: Professional Women Upon Their Professions …: Conversations Recorded : Margaret Bateson : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive
Further Reading:
https://www.rct.uk/collection/themes/trails/women-photographers/alice-hughes-1857-1939