St James's Photographic Studio

This was the 1880s London studio where every actor wanted their photo taken—big hair, bigger expressions, and a backdrop that screamed “I’m on stage tonight.” Their prints were so sharp you could count the pins in a starched collar, and the actors loved how the light carved their faces into heroes or villains. If you’ve ever seen a Victorian playbill come to life, start with their Guy Little photos from May 1882; swipe left and the actors step right off the card.