Edie Baskin Reflects on Iconic Moments from ‘SNL’ in New Book
Edie Baskin, the renowned photographer who captured the essence of “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) for 25 years, is revisiting her remarkable journey with the release of her new book, Live From My Studio: The Art of Edie Baskin. The book, published by ACC Art Books on October 7, 2023, showcases her striking images of legendary hosts and musical guests that defined the show’s iconic aesthetic.
Baskin’s collaboration with Lorne Michaels began in 1974 when they met at a poker game at the Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles. Their friendship quickly evolved into a professional partnership. “He had seen my photography work, so he knew what I was capable of, and, one day, he called me and told me he was moving to New York to start a show,” Baskin recalled. She was already living in New York, seeking new opportunities, and thus began her tenure as the chief photographer for SNL from 1975 to 2000.
Behind the Scenes with Comedy Legends
Every week, Baskin would capture the host and musical guests backstage, developing the black-and-white images overnight and adding vibrant colour by hand. The dynamic portraits of stars like Nicole Kidman, Mick Jagger, and George Harrison became a hallmark of the show, appearing prominently during opening credits and commercial breaks.
Reflecting on her experiences, Baskin expressed her joy in working with the show’s guests. One of her fondest memories includes reuniting with Lily Tomlin during a 1976 episode. “It was wonderful to reconnect with her in New York,” she said. This particular photograph was taken during a dress rehearsal for Tomlin’s character, Edith Ann, which coincidentally shares Baskin’s legal name. She described Tomlin as “warm, gracious, and full of life,” noting that their recent conversation revealed the actress remains unchanged.
Another highlight from Baskin’s collection features Steve Martin, who hosted SNL multiple times. “He hosted eight times during [one] stretch,” Baskin stated. Capturing Martin was particularly enjoyable due to his expressiveness and distinct style both on and off the camera. The image of him during a break from filming is featured on the cover of her new book.
Baskin’s connections with musicians like Paul Simon also added depth to her work. The two had met at a Grammy after-party, and Baskin had previously taken a portrait of him that became the cover of his album, “Still Crazy After All These Years.” She praised Simon as “incredibly smart, with a great sense of humor,” highlighting their long-standing friendship.
Legacy and Impact
Baskin’s photographs not only captured moments of comedy and music but also reflected the cultural landscape of the 1970s and 1980s. Her artistry contributed to SNL’s identity, and her new book serves as a testament to the show’s legacy and her role in it.
As fans look forward to the release of Live From My Studio, Edie Baskin’s work continues to resonate, reminding audiences of the magic that happens behind the scenes in the world of live television. Her lens has immortalized some of the most iconic figures in entertainment, forever preserving their essence in the annals of television history.
