Ron Greene’s Recollections of His Friendship with Robert Redford and Their Photographic Legacy

Ron Greene recounts his experiences photographing Robert Redford in 1959 during Redford’s time at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. Greene describes Redford as a natural before the camera, requiring minimal direction during photo sessions. Their professional relationship evolved into a personal friendship, with Greene visiting Redford and his wife, Lola, in their Upper East Side apartment. This connection was abruptly ended by a tragic family crisis: the sudden death of Redford and Lola’s infant son, Scott, from sudden infant death syndrome. Greene struggled with the emotional weight of this loss, unable to reach out to the couple. Years later, a chance encounter on a film set revealed that Redford had forgotten their past collaboration. Greene recounted how Redford recognized a photo he carried, prompting the actor to pay the $7 he owed for a portrait. Greene reflects on the ambiguity of their relationship, questioning whether their bond was genuine friendship or merely a professional connection he idealized. The narrative highlights themes of memory, loss, and the fleeting nature of human connections.