Getty Images Gallery used the Beatles as bait to reel in the first viewers to the opening of their permanent exhibition space at the film museum – The Movieum of London. Marina Scukina was there to report.

Robert Whitaker posing in front of a photo of a younger self taking a photo of George Harrison © Marina Scukina

The exhibition uncovered a lush collection of Robert Whitaker’s unseen photographs following the legendary rock band on its 1966 Far Eastern Tour. Celebrating the 40th anniversary since the Beatles played their last live performance the retrospective featured images from 1963 to 1970, including scenes from the filming of Help and A Hard Day’s Night.

Whitaker revealed that most of his displayed photographs were shot on 35mm black-and-white film catching the ups and downs of the Rock’n’Roll lifestyle. ‘Do you miss it?’ I asked Whitaker and he admitted he had not changed his way of life in slightest.

The photographer hadn’t seen most of the images for years and felt excited viewing the exhibition. ‘I get knocked out,’ Mr W. said.

‘The gallery is a result of successful partnerships,’ said Alison Crombie, Getty Images senior communication director, who emphasized the need of collaboration between different mediums. At the time of recession mutual professional aid has turned out being more profitable for all areas of business, including art and photography, and the increasing need for support is becoming a new form of media communication.

Rumours had it Paul McCartney would arrive to the exhibition but his yellow submarine never parked on the Thames outside The Movieum. When I asked Whitaker whether he still stays in touch with the Beatles members he replied through a cheeky grin, ‘Why should I?’

The Getty Images Gallery is already planning more exhibitions of images sourced from their Hulton Archive focusing on films, music and entertainment.

The documentary collection of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and George Harrison photographs is available at the Movieum of London, Riverside rooms, until the end of June.

For more information, visit www.themovieum.com.