Trivia

His house is now owned by Toyah Willcox.

Renowned society photographer, educated at Harrow and St. John's College, Cambridge, though he left there without a degree in 1925. Took up photography as a hobby, while working as a clerk for his father. Eventually rose to become, for over three decades, the favorite photographer of the Royal Family. He also photographed more than 1,000 stars and luminaries of screen, stage and literature. Moreoever, he painted, wrote books and was a noted set and costume designer for theatre, ballet and opera from 1930. He even designed hotel lobbies and clubs, including the Raffles. Beaton later moved into film work, creating lavish designs for major period productions, such as "Anna Karenina", "Gigi" and "My Fair Lady".

Claimed that Greta Garbo was the only woman he had ever loved romantically.

He was created Knight Bachelor in the 1972 Queen's New Year Honours List for his services to design and photography.

He won four Tony Awards as Best Costume Designer: in 1955 for "Quadrille;" in 1957 for "My Fair Lady," a nomination shared with "Little Glass Clock;" in 1960 for "Saratoga;" and in 1970 for "Coco." He also received two other nominations: in 1960 as Best Scenic Designer (Musical) for "Sarartoga;" and in 1961 as Best Costume Designer (Musical) for "Tenderloin.".

His father, Walter Beaton, was a timber importer.

He was awarded the CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in the 1957 Queen's New Year Honours List for his services to design and photography.