Meghan Markle and Prince Harry usually reserve their Instagram platform to promote their charity work and causes they support, but today (4 September) Markle published a post expressing her sadness at the death of Peter Lindbergh, the legendary photographer who she personally enlisted to shoot the cover for her September 2019 Forces of Change Vogue issue.

Next to a selection of black and white images, including one of Markle and Lindbergh embracing, the account run by Markle and Prince Harry praised the late photographer for his work in promoting natural beauty, writing: “Honouring the life and work of photographer Peter Lindbergh.

“His work is revered globally for capturing the essence of a subject and promoting healthy ideals of beauty, eschewing photoshopping, and preferring natural beauty with minimal makeup.

“The Duchess of Sussex had worked with Peter in the past and personally chose him to shoot the 15 women on the cover for the September issue of British Vogue, which she guest edited. There is no other photographer she considered to bring this meaningful project to life.

“‘Forces for Change’ was the one of the esteemed photographer’s final published projects. He will be deeply missed.”

For the Forces of Change issue, Markle and Lindbergh collaborated on creating a vision that shone a spotlight on 15 women who are changing our world for the better, including climate activist Greta Thunberg, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and actor Jane Fonda. This was the second time she had worked with him, following her photoshoot for Vanity Fair back in 2017. 

In her tribute Markle specifically touches on how important choosing a photographer who did not use photoshop was to her, something which Lindbergh commented on while making the cover: “My instructions from the Duchess were clear: ‘I want to see freckles!’ Well, that was like running through open doors for me. I love freckles. I hate retouching, I hate make-up. I always say, ‘Take the make-up off!’”

A post on Lindbergh’s Instagram account announced his death, but no further details of the circumstances have been released. The post reads:

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Peter Lindbergh on September 3rd 2019, at the age of 74. He is survived by his wife Petra, his first wife Astrid, his four sons Benjamin, Jérémy, Simon, Joseph and seven grandchildren.

“He leaves a big void.”

Lindbergh leaves behind him an impressive portfolio having worked with some of the most famous and influential people in the world. Heavily associated with the supermodel era of the 90s, Lindbergh has shot iconic names such as Linda Evangelista, Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss.

Many other celebrities have also expressed their heartbreak on social media, with Reese Witherspoon commenting on his Instagram post with: “Peter was the greatest of all time.” Daisy Lowe posted a line of broken heart emojis, as did Karlie Kloss and Linda Evangelista.

Ashley Graham wrote: “Breaks my heart. He was one of the most energetic, fun and vibrant photographers I’ve ever worked with. You will be missed greatly Peter.”

And Donna Karren added: “You will forever be in my heart as an artist, creative visionary who truly captured the soul of a woman and expressed the emotion of every moment. Your love for capturing the spirit and individuality of those who were lucky to pose for you will live on forever. I will love you PETER forever and ever.”

Images: Getty / Instagram