Robert Baral, author of Revue, paid tribute to Alfred Cheney
Johnston in VARIETY on July 3, 1971:
"Alfred C. Johnston, 87, Helped Make Ziegfeld
Girls A U.S. Tradition"
Alfred Cheney Johnston, 87, official photographer for Florenz Ziegfeld,
Jr., from 1917 to 1931 died in Griffin Hospital, Ansonia, Conn. He had
been ill for a number of years and was retired. Cheney, as he was popularly
known, was best known for his studies of girls in the various editions
of the "Ziegfeld Follies," also various Ziegfeld book shows.
Johnston estimated that he had photographed over 25,000
beauties. His pictures were considered sexy in their time, and mild
today. His props were usually a tapestry background, a rope of pearls,
a shawl or flimsy scarf of chiffon for a casual drape. He lived in lavish
style at the Hotel des Artistes during his later years before retiring
to Oxford, Conn. He lived in a small salt-box home and for a time continued
his photographic work for several years in a large remodeled barn on
the estate.
In addition to his theatrical work he was among the very first top photographers
to be used on Madison Avenue. He shot many layouts for industrial firms
and cigaret (sic) companies.
Apparently Ziegfeld never interfered with his work usual for Ziggy.
If a showgirl ever stood him up for an appointment, he immediately checked
her from his list. All of his studies were studio shots. The only time
he ever took a photo outside was of "The Jest" which starred
John and Lionel Barrymore.
Johnston’s work is generally ranked with the top photographers
of the day: Steichen, Horst, Baron de Meyer, Genthe among others.
His presence at the annual Ziegfeld Ball was always an occasion. If
any of the top Ziegfeld stars were present he would immediately head
for them and there was a happy reunion.
His wife, Doris, a non-professional, died a few years ago.
