William Silano, Photographer

William R. Silano, a widely published fashion photographer, died at home in Bridgehampton on April 14 following what was described as a lengthy illness. He was 80.

For the bulk of his career, Mr. Silano was a freelance photographer, working during the 1960s in Paris and London for Elle, among other publications. Upon returning to his native New York City, he worked for Town and Country and Harper’s Bazaar. His work appeared in those magazines over a span of more than 25 years.

One assignment for Harper’s Bazaar won a gold medal from the Art Directors Club of New York. His photographs also ran in a number of advertising campaigns.

In 1984, he moved to Bridgehampton to live closer to his brother, George Silano, a motion picture photographer who has owned a house on North Haven since 1969. His brother called him a “master craftsman” who possessed “unbelievable talent.” In addition to his love of fine art photography, his other passions included sculpture and furniture design.

Mr. Silano was born on March 26, 1934, in Flushing, Queens, to Robert Silano and the former Lucille Maiero. He grew up in Flushing and attended what was then the School of Modern Photography in Manhattan. In the 1950s, he served in the National Guard.

In addition to his brother, Mr. Silano is survived by a niece, Elizabeth Silano of Jamesport, and a cousin, Patricia Tavolilla of Tuckahoe.

On Saturday evening, his ashes will be spread during a service at his brother’s house on North Haven. His family has suggested memorial donations to the Hampton Library, P.O. Box 3025, Bridgehampton 11932.