Ron Howard reveals what surprised him most about legendary photographer Richard Avedon

Ron Howard says the most surprising thing he learnt about photographer Richard Avedon was that he had been a poor student before becoming a leading figure in fashion photography. Howard’s new Netflix documentary explores Avedon’s life and work, including how he used his success to take professional risks and address issues he considered important to the United States.

Avedon, who died in 2004 aged 81, spent more than 50 years photographing figures such as Marilyn Monroe, the Beatles and the Kennedys, as well as making campaigns for brands including Versace and Calvin Klein. Howard was especially struck by Avedon’s “American West” project: commissioned by the Amon Carter Museum, it took him across 17 states to photograph ordinary people, many facing hardship. The documentary features interviews with Avedon’s son, models Lauren Hutton and Twiggy, designer Calvin Klein and journalist Tina Brown.