The Factory of Femininity: Studio Portraits by Lallie Charles and Rita Martin

Intriguing small exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery looking at a photographers’ studio in London run by women and specialising in photographing women.

The studio was set up at the end of the 19th century by Lallie Charles and run with her sisters Rita and Isabella Martin until Rita set up her own studio. 

Charles specialised in photographing society ladies for the magazines which were becoming popular. The show featured the photographs alongside the features they were used in.

Martin concentrated on stars of the stage and screen and there was a delightful selection of her work. Needless to say my favourite was a picture of the actress Gertie Miller with her dog Chum.

As well as showcasing the work of these photographers the show also reflected the changing role of women in the early 20th century.

Closes 19 October 2025


 

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