EDDIE WILLIAMS Western Photography Guild 1950s

THE (CONTINUING) STORY OF WESTERN PHOTOGRAPHY GUILD While serving in World War II, Don Whitman developed a friendship with a fellow sailor who related his experiences of modeling and posing for photographers. While the model’s name is lost to history, it is believed this chance meeting served as inspiration for Don to establish the Western Photography Guild in 1947, upon returning home to his native Denver, Colorado. Specializing in male physique photography, Don Whitman and his Western Photography Guild remained active for the next 50 years. Don also co-founded the Mr. Colorado Bodybuilding Competition in 1950. This annual competition served as a showcase for local talent. He served as the competition director from 1950 until 1972 and photographed many of the competitors. The studio found much success in the 1950s as interest in physique photography grew. However, tragedy struck in 1965 when a freak summer storm flooded Don’s photography studio. His equipment was ruined, and many prints and original negatives were lost. Despite this devastating blow, the studio eventually recovered. Following Don’s passing in 1998, his estate passed to his brother-in-law and, eventually, his nephew Andy Dimler and nieces Elisa Dimler and Jane Sanders equally. Since inheriting the estate, Andy has worked to preserve and promote his uncle’s work. Rounded corners with a couple minor dings, spotting bottom right, overall very good condition. ç