Stan Shuttleworth, a man who worked for the San Bernardino County Planning Commission and lived in Redlands, California, had a unique passion: photographing women with long hair. From the 1950s until his passing in the 1980s, he dedicated a significant portion of his time to capturing the beauty of these women’s flowing locks. His story and his dedication to his craft are quite interesting.
Shuttleworth placed advertisements in local newspapers, seeking women with long hair who were willing to model for him. This direct approach allowed him to find subjects who shared his appreciation for long hairstyles.
He photographed these women in a way that showcased the length, texture, and beauty of their hair. His photos weren’t just snapshots; they were carefully composed portraits that highlighted the hair as a central feature.
Shuttleworth understood that he wasn’t alone in his admiration for long hair. This understanding motivated him to share his work with others. He wanted to connect with people who appreciated the same aesthetic.
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His method of sharing his photographs was quite unusual. He operated on an “honor system.” When someone requested photos, he would mail a sample selection to them. This showed a great deal of trust in people.
If the recipient liked the photos, they would send Shuttleworth a payment. He would then send them more photographs. If they didn’t like the sample, they were expected to return it. This system relied on honesty and mutual respect.
This unique business model allowed Shuttleworth to share his work widely without the need for complex sales or distribution methods. It was a simple and effective way for him to connect with his audience.
Shuttleworth’s dedication to his photography continued for several decades, from the 1950s until his death in the 1980s. He passed away because of complications from diabetes, a condition he battled for many years.
His desire was to share his work with the world. This ambition now continues through efforts to make his photographs available. This allows his passion and dedication to continue to be seen.
The photos themselves offer a glimpse into a specific aesthetic preference of the mid-20th century. Long hair on women was often associated with femininity, beauty, and a connection to nature. Shuttleworth’s photos celebrate these qualities.
