Ian Berry's Manplan Photos: A Groundbreaking Architectural Legacy 2026

Ian Berry's contribution to the Manplan series in the Architectural Review remains a landmark in architectural photojournalism. The project, conceived by editor Hubert de Cronin Hastings, commissioned photographers to explore societal needs rather than commercial interests.

What Was Manplan?

Manplan was a series of eight photo essays published in the Architectural Review between 1969 and 1970. Each edition paired a specially commissioned photographer with an editor to examine different aspects of society.

The series aimed to show what society needs, rather than what will pay best. This approach was revolutionary for architectural publishing at the time.

Ian Berry's Commission

Berry contributed to the second edition, titled Society and Its Contacts, which focused on transport and communications. His photographs captured the essence of how people connect and move within society.

Before this commission, Berry had already established himself as a photojournalist. In 1968, he famously persuaded a Russian officer at the Czech border that he was on his way to an architects' conference, allowing him to continue his work.

Impact on Architectural Publishing

The Manplan series has since been described as “the bravest moment in architectural publishing.” Despite not achieving commercial success, it pushed the boundaries of how architecture and society were portrayed.

Berry's work, along with that of other commissioned photographers, helped redefine the role of photography in architectural discourse. The background to this story is set out in 7 Up Documentary: How the Groundbreaking Series Touched Lives. A related thread runs through Celebrity: latest articles.

Key Takeaways

• Manplan was a groundbreaking series of photo essays in the Architectural Review (1969-70).
• Ian Berry contributed to the second edition, focusing on transport and communications.
• The series prioritized societal needs over commercial interests.
• It has been called “the bravest moment in architectural publishing.”
• Berry's photojournalism skills were instrumental in capturing the essence of the project.

Comparison of Manplan Editions

Note: The table above is illustrative; actual themes and photographers may vary. Earlier coverage in Women Behind the Lens: How One Photographer Challenges Domestic Roles shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in Richard Avedon: How He Photographed the Soul of His Subjects.

FAQ

Ian Berry's legacy extends beyond Manplan. His fearless approach to photojournalism, as seen in his coverage of the Sharpeville massacre, cemented his reputation as a legendary photographer.

The Manplan series itself has inspired subsequent generations of architectural photographers and editors. Its emphasis on societal context over commercial gain continues to resonate.

For those interested in the intersection of art and design, the Ca' Granda exhibition at Milan Design Week offers a contemporary parallel, showcasing how art can be multiplied for social impact.

Similarly, the Designers Republic's work for Aphex Twin and gaming demonstrates how graphic design can challenge conventions, much like Manplan did in its time.

Berry's influence is also felt in the way photographers approach storytelling. His ability to capture the human condition, as seen in his documentation of everyday life, remains a benchmark for photojournalists.

As we reflect on Berry's contributions, it's clear that his work on Manplan was not just a commission but a statement about the power of photography to reflect and shape society.