John Watkins (photographer) facts for kids
John Watkins (1823–1874) was an English photographer who specialized in taking portraits. He was famous for capturing images of many important people during the Victorian era.
Life of a Victorian Photographer
John Watkins was born on February 4, 1823. He often worked alongside his younger brother, Octavius Charles Watkins (1836–1882). Together, they ran a photography studio.
Capturing Famous Faces
From about 1840 to 1875, the Watkins brothers took studio portraits. They photographed many artists and other people who were important in culture. These were people who influenced society through their work.
Some of the famous people they photographed included:
- Charles Dickens, a very well-known writer.
- The Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VII.
- John Stuart Mill, an important thinker and writer.
- Thomas Carlyle, another famous writer and historian.
- Charles Kingsley, a writer and priest.
- Carlo Marochetti, a famous sculptor.
These portraits helped people remember what these important figures looked like.
Later Life and Legacy
John Watkins passed away on December 26, 1874. He was buried in Highgate Cemetery in London. His photographs continue to be important historical records. They show us what many famous Victorians looked like.