Title: British Society Photographer Dafydd Jones Reflects on Glitzy and Seedy Nights in New York
Nine years ago, while recovering from a serious health crisis, British society photographer Dafydd Jones decided to revisit his archive of negatives and print some of his old party pictures. With three decades of experience documenting the social scenes of British and American upper classes, Jones had never had the chance to reflect on his own work until now.
In 2020, Jones published his first book of these photos, titled “Oxford: The Last Hurrah,” which was a surprise hit. This success led him to delve into his nights in 1980s and 1990s Manhattan, capturing both the glitzy and seedy aspects of the era in his new book, “New York: High Life / Low Life.”
Speaking from his studio in East Sussex, England, Jones shared insights into his experiences as a society photographer. From his move to New York in 1988 to his encounters with notable figures like Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, Jones provided a glimpse into the world of high society events.
Reflecting on his time in New York, Jones noted the differences between the social scenes in London and New York. He described the parties in New York as more uptight, with guests more conscious of their social status and image.
Jones also shared anecdotes of capturing moments with controversial figures like Epstein and Trump, offering a unique perspective on their personalities during that time.
One of the most memorable images Jones recalled was of elephants walking through Manhattan late at night, adding a surreal touch to his experiences in the bustling city.
Through his photographs and stories, Dafydd Jones provides a fascinating look back at a bygone era of high society in New York, capturing both the glamour and the grit of the time.
