Harry Benson Discusses Truth in Photography & New Hamptons Show

This week’s cover artist, legendary photographer Harry Benson, delivers a joyful image of The Beatles running on the beach in Miami, Florida in 1964, just as they were debuting in America and on the cusp of becoming indelible worldwide superstars.

The image is one of many in Harry Benson: A Life Behind the Lens of History, a new exhibition opening at Contessa Gallery in Southampton (9 Main Street) on July 12 and remaining on view through August 30. This show celebrates the 95-year-old photographer’s unparalleled career with powerful and rare works capturing defining moments of the past six decades, from the cover image of The Beatles, to intimate portraits of world leaders, cultural icons, and pivotal historical events.

Benson’s photographs are more than images — they are emotional, cultural, and historical touchstones. Born in Glasgow in 1929, Benson’s lens has immortalized moments like The Beatles’ iconic Pillow Fight, Martin Luther King Jr.’s Civil Rights marches, and Robert F. Kennedy’s tragic assassination. His spontaneous, unfiltered approach has produced works held in prestigious collections, including the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.

“This exhibition is a rare opportunity to experience the work of a photographer who has shaped how we see history,” said Contessa Tscherne, Owner of Contessa Gallery, adding, “Harry Benson’s ability to capture truth and emotion in a single frame aligns perfectly with our mission to present art that inspires and endures.”

The exhibition will feature a curated selection of Benson’s photographs, showcasing his ability to blend raw immediacy with timeless artistry. From portraits of Elizabeth Taylor and Muhammad Ali to candid moments with U.S. presidents from Eisenhower to Biden, the collection reflects Benson’s extraordinary access and instinct for storytelling.

Opening receptions will take place on Saturday, July 12, from 5–8 p.m., and Sunday, July 13, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., offering guests the chance to explore the collection, and engage with Benson’s legacy. The event is open to the public, with RSVP requested at info@contessagallery.com.

Benson spoke with Dan’s Papers about his work, his role in capturing the truth in photography, and this upcoming exhibition at Contessa Gallery.

A Chat with Harry Benson

What does it require as a photographer to capture authentic moments like this week’s cover shot of The Beatles? What makes a photograph true in your mind?

To make a photograph true, it cannot be staged by the photographer. I want to photograph what I see and what I see should inform. The photographer should not participate in the photograph, but he or she should observe and capture what is there without intruding. A true photograph is not what the photographer thinks should be there, but what is actually there. That’s another reason I like to photograph on location — in the subject’s home, office or at an event, rather than in a studio.

You have photographed so many of the world’s greatest icon and most historic moments. Is there anything you would like to photograph that you never did?

Hard to answer. I think perhaps photographing the pope reading the paper while taking a bubble bath would be extraordinary, don’t you?

What will you be showing at Contessa Gallery?

We are showing many photographs from different times in my career from The Beatles and the Rolling Stones to Dolly Parton to Amy Winehouse and including icons like Frank Sinatra and Mia Farrow at the Truman Capote Ball, and some photographs that might be new to the viewer, including a fun-filled New York Jets locker room and more.

How did you decide what to show?

My wife Gigi and I along with Contessa, the gallery’s owner, tried to choose from our favorite photographs we feel others will like and relate to.

Do you have anything to add?

I’m delighted to be returning to Contessa’s fabulous new Southampton gallery for a second year in a row. And I’m delighted to be included in Dan’s Papers again this year. Bravo all around!

To learn more about Harry Benson: A Life Behind the Lens of History and more art at Contessa Gallery, visit contessagallery.com.