Herbert Ponting: Scott's Antarctic Photographer and Pioneer Filmmaker

Herbert Ponting (1870-1935) was a young bank clerk who became a professional photographer, known for his stereoview and enlarged images of America, Japan, and the Russo-Japanese war. In 1909, he was recruited by Captain Robert Scott for his second Antarctic expedition and later joined a government-backed Arctic expedition in 1918. During the 1920s and 1930s, he struggled financially but was sustained by correspondence with George Eastman, a late-life romance with singer Glae Carrodus, and the knowledge that his images of Antarctica had secured his place in photographic and filmmaking history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 26 March 2021
Publisher: The History Press Ltd

Herbert Ponting, a young bank clerk, embarked on a remarkable journey when he acquired an early Kodak compact camera. As the early 1900s unfolded, Ponting found himself residing in California, pursuing a career as a professional photographer. His expertise lay in capturing stereoviews and enlarged images that vividly depicted America, Japan, and the Russo-Japanese war.

In 1909, Ponting's path took an unexpected turn when he was recruited by Captain Robert Scott for his second Antarctic expedition. His role as a photographer and filmmaker would play a pivotal role in documenting the expedition's endeavors. Tragically, in 1913, the expedition met its demise, with Scott and his companions succumbing to the harsh conditions of Antarctica.

However, Ponting's legacy endured. His images of Antarctica, which were widely published following the expedition, showcased his exceptional talent and dedication. He also delivered innovative "cinema-lectures" on the expedition, captivating audiences with his visual storytelling.

Despite the rejection of his offers to serve as a photographer or correspondent during the outbreak of war, Ponting remained resilient. In 1918, he joined a government-backed Arctic expedition alongside Ernest Shackleton and other Antarctic veterans. This expedition provided him with a new opportunity to explore and document the frozen landscapes of the Arctic.

During the economically challenging 1920s and 1930s, Ponting devoted his time to writing his Antarctic memoir, re-working his Antarctic films into silent and "talkie" versions, and pursuing inventions. Financial struggles were a constant companion, but he found solace in his correspondence with photographic equipment magnate George Eastman. Eastman's support and encouragement played a significant role in sustaining Ponting's artistic endeavors.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Ponting's life was enriched by a late-life romance with singer Glae Carrodus. Their connection brought joy and companionship to his life. Furthermore, the enduring impact of his images of Antarctica cemented his place in photographic and filmmaking history. Herbert Ponting's journey, marked by determination, resilience, and a profound love for the art of photography, continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.

Weight: 520g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780750979016