On March 31, Patrick Demarchelier’s Instagram account shared the unfortunate news that the fashion photographer had passed away. Sharing a picture of Demarchelier, the caption reads “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.” 

Demarchelier was the mastermind behind combining celebrity with high fashion. After leaving his home country of France and coming to New York in the 1970s, Demarchelier became well known for his editorial images. He could capture the spirit of his subjects like no other photographer at the time. He served as Princess Diana’s personal photographer, has shot for some of fashion’s biggest magazines, and captured images of beloved icons. Madonna, Gisele, and Kate Moss were a few of his subjects over the years. He was named an Officer of the Order of the Arts and Letters by the French government in 2007. He received a Lucie Award for his photography in 2008. 

Admirers of his work and former subjects took to social media to share their condolences and memories with the late photographer. Gisele Bundchen shared a comment on Instagram saying “RIP #PatrickDemarchelier ?? @patrickdemarchelier probably one of the photographers Gisele shot with the most in her career. He will be so missed.” Amber Valletta said “I’m so sadden by this news. Patrick was one of the first photographers to work with me. He is fashion history and legendary photography. We will miss him. I am sending love and good thoughts to his family. ❤️❤️❤️” 

The cause of Demarchelier’s death is unknown, but the world of fashion will not feel the same without his presence. As we mourn the loss of one of fashion’s great photographers, we can honor his memory through the work he left behind.