The context behind this photograph follows photographer Harry Benson, who originally had no desires to work with the Beatles. He stated that he took himself seriously and was set to cover a news story in Africa. He did not want to cover a ‘rock and roll’ story. However, after meeting the band members and seeing them play live in Paris, he had no intent of leaving. During this time, the Beatles were on the cusp of greatness and Benson was there to capture it. This pillow fight picture was taken in the George V Hotel, the night that the band discovered that their single ‘I Want to Hold Your Hand’ hit number 1 in the U.S.A. Benson freezes this moment in time and joy through the picture of the excited band members celebrating their success.
This picture was taken pretty early on in the band’s career. Their number one hit single was only few of their number ones as the only achieved their first hit in 1963 when their single, ‘From Me to You’ topped the Record Retailer chart and later became the Official UK’s Single Chart. Overall the band has 17 number within their whole career, therefore, when this photo was taken, this was something that was somehow unfamiliar and new to them. In a way, the picture connotes the feeling of innocence more than excitement. As The Beatles became more successful in their careers, they most likely became more accustomed to their success. Therefore, there is something so raw and joyful about this photo as it displays genuine happiness. The fact that this picture is an action shot makes it work very effectively as it is capturing real emotion. This is what applies the realism to the photograph as it almost makes the audience feel like they are there with them.
Another thing about this photo is that it portrays the prominence of the type of music topping the charts during the 60’s compared to the music topping charts in today’s day in age. The genre of music that was popular back then, is very different and drastic to what is popular now. It is not likely that you get bands topping the carts very often nowadays, however, the Beatles did this often during their time. Therefore, the visual signs of this photograph almost implies what music was like back in the 60’s, the closeness of their relationship as a band and how they all genuinely got along. It shows that their music was as real as their friendship. Therefore, the viewers can interpret the entertainment and liveliness of this picture.
This image maintains prominence as it shows the interment details of the bands career. It captured the happiness and success of their career and how they all genuinely enjoyed their careers. It also displays the casual, laid back styles as they are jumping in joy in their pyjamas, instead of modern day music where it seems like musical artists always have to be presented in their best attires.
The Beatles were very/probably the most prominent symbols in music during their career, which means this picture is most likely one of the most influential pictures of them and all time. It represents their success, innocence and happiness.
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