Ian Leslie Macdonald is a prominent Toronto-based photographer who has made significant contributions to both the artistic and historical realms. For over a decade, he has served as The Regimental Photographer to The 48th Highlanders of Canada, a distinguished reserve unit of The Canadian Armed Forces with a rich heritage dating back to 1891.

In early 2017, Ian received a personal invitation from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to undertake a special project at Windsor Castle. His task was to capture a series of portraits to commemorate Her Platinum Anniversary as Colonel-in-Chief of The 48th Highlanders of Canada. Additionally, he was entrusted with creating official portraits for other esteemed military units including the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada and the Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery during the same sitting.

Notably, Ian was personally requested by The Queen to create a special official portrait, which was released by Buckingham Palace on July 1st, 2017, in honor of Canada's 150th Anniversary of Confederation. In this portrait, Her Majesty proudly wears her Maple Leaf Brooch, a cherished piece of jewelry with significant historical significance. The brooch was created by her father for The Queen’s Mother, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, to celebrate their 1939 tour of Canada. Its presence in the portrait symbolizes the enduring bond between the Crown and the Canadian people, highlighting the importance of the monarchy's relationship with the nation throughout history.

The culmination of Ian's work was recognized when Her Majesty invited him to a private audience at Buckingham Palace in October 2017 to present his finished portraits. These portraits now reside in prestigious collections such as the Royal Collection, Royal Archives, and the private collections of several members of the Royal Family.

His artistic prowess was further acknowledged in 2019 when Canada Post featured two of his images on a First Day Cover commemorating a new stamp featuring Her Majesty The Queen. This acknowledgment adds to his already impressive accolades, including the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal awarded in 2012 for his service to The Crown, LGBT, and Indigenous Canadians. In a note to Ian, Governor General David Johnston said, "Ian, my wife and I will treasure the photographs you gave to us and to Canada. What a talent".

Ian's commitment to preserving history is evident through his involvement with the 15th Battalion (48th Highlanders) Memorial Project for over a decade. He has played a crucial role in archiving thousands of images and documents from the First World War, conducting research, and unveiling memorials to honor the 15th Battalion. His familial connection to the Battalion adds a personal dimension to his dedication.

The impact of Ian’s work extends beyond military circles, with his photographs featured in numerous publications, documentary films, and exhibitions worldwide. His images adorn veterans' hospitals in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Canada House in London, while also being preserved in esteemed collections such as the Royal Archives and the private holdings of various members of the Royal Family.

A versatile artist, Ian's passion for photography was nurtured at The Etobicoke School of the Arts, where he was part of the first graduating class, specializing in Drama and Photography. His expertise in LGBT history, particularly his knowledge of Harvey Milk, has made him a sought-after speaker on human rights issues.

Currently, he is diligently working on a book chronicling his decades-long journey photographing members of The Royal Family and dignitaries in Canada and the United Kingdom. He is an esteemed member of The Royal Heraldry Society of Canada and proudly bears his own personal coat of arms granted by The Canadian Heraldic Authority.

Through his artistry, dedication, and profound impact on Canadian history, Ian Leslie Macdonald continues to leave an indelible mark on both the photographic world and the cultural legacy of Canada.

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