Happy Birthday, Jim Marshall

Were you there last night? Chances are good if you happen to be a San Francisco political figure, a newscaster, a lawyer, a professional photographer, an old rocker, a sweet young thing, a photo editor or Joan Baez. Because last night we all gathered to celebrate Jim Marshall’s 70th birthday. The alcohol flowed, the jazz trio played, the hors d’oeuvres (no onions) were passed and the conversations all started with one of two of the following statements: "How do you know Jim?" or "Can you believe Jim made it to 70?". Not that we begrudge this amazing photographer his longevity. But as one guest said to me ‘it must be the genes’.

For those of you who do not know who Jim is just rent the movie Woodstock and check out the short, dark haired man with the Leicas hanging off his shoulder as he darts across the stage shooting pictures of Jimi. Better yet check out his website at Jim Marshall's Vault.

We met Jim in 1983.  He became part of our photo studio life while he was dealing with what he describes on his site as his 'dark period'. He survived and so did we.  To this day I have never known anyone who could drive round trip from Walnut Creek to San Francisco in 30 minutes.  Fast cars, lots of caffeine and always his Leicas.  We are honored that he took our engagement photo and so pleased to have a wall full of his photographs in our home.

Happy Birthday, Jim. We are looking forward to your 80th.