15 Most Famous Photographers & Their Best Works
Photography and Photographers
Photography is a powerful medium of expression and communication. It can capture moments, emotions, stories, and beauty in ways that words cannot. Photography can also inspire, challenge, and educate us about the world and ourselves.
But who are the people behind the camera? Who are the most famous photographers that have shaped the history and art of photography? And what are their best works that we can admire and learn from?
World’s No 1 Photographer
While opinions about the world’s number one photographer may vary depending on personal preferences and tastes, many photography enthusiasts acknowledge the legendary Ansel Adams for his exceptional contributions to landscape photography. His iconic black and white images, particularly of the American West, continue to captivate audiences and serve as a benchmark for technical prowess and artistic vision.
World’s Most Famous Photo
Determining the “most famous” photo in the world is subjective, as opinions may vary based on individual perspectives and cultural influences. However, one photograph that often stands out in discussions about the most famous is “Afghan Girl” by Steve McCurry. This haunting portrait of Sharbat Gula with piercing green eyes appeared on the cover of National Geographic in 1985 and has become an iconic representation of the human cost of conflict. The image has resonated globally, capturing the plight and resilience of people in war-torn regions. While other photographs may also be considered highly famous, “Afghan Girl” remains an enduring and powerful symbol in the realm of documentary photography.
World’s Highest-Paid Photographer
Pointing the highest-paid photographer is a bit trickier, as income in the photography industry can stem from various sources such as commercial projects, exhibitions, and licensing deals. However, Annie Leibovitz consistently ranks among the top earners, renowned for her striking celebrity portraits and editorial work for prestigious magazines.
World’s Most Expensive Photo Ever Sold
When it comes to the most expensive photograph ever sold, the honor goes to Andreas Gursky’s “Rhein II.” This image, depicting the Rhine River, fetched a staggering $4.3 million at auction. Gursky’s meticulous composition and large-scale prints have elevated him to the pinnacle of contemporary photography, reflected in the astronomical price tag attached to this particular piece.
Here in this post, we will introduce you to some of the most famous photographers of all time and their best works. We will cover a range of genres, styles, and eras, from the pioneers of photography to the contemporary masters. We will also provide some links to their websites or portfolios where you can see more of their amazing images.
Let’s start:
Ansel Adams (1902–1984)
Ansel Adams is arguably one of the greatest landscape photographers ever. He is best known for his stunning black and white images of the American West, especially Yosemite National Park. He used a large format camera and a technique called the Zone System to achieve perfect exposure and tonal range in his prints. He was also an environmentalist and a co-founder of the Group f/64, which promoted pure photography and sharp focus.
Some of his best works include:
- The Tetons and the Snake River (1942)
- Moonrise, Hernandez, New Mexico (1941)
- Clearing Winter Storm, Yosemite National Park (1944)
You can see more of his work on his official website: https://www.anseladams.com/
Henri Cartier-Bresson (1908–2004)
Henri Cartier-Bresson is widely regarded as the father of modern photojournalism and street photography. He was a master of candid photography and capturing decisive moments in life. He used a 35mm Leica camera with a 50mm lens and preferred natural light and simple compositions. He was also a co-founder of Magnum Photos, a prestigious photo agency that represents some of the world’s best photographers.
Some of his best works include:
- The Decisive Moment (1952)
- Behind the Gare Saint-Lazare (1932)
- Gandhi’s Funeral (1948)
You can see more of his work on Magnum Photos: https://www.magnumphotos.com/photographer/henri-cartier-bresson/
Cindy Sherman (born 1954)
Cindy Sherman is one of the most influential contemporary artists and photographers. She is known for her conceptual self-portraits, in which she transforms herself into various characters and stereotypes using costumes, makeup, props, and digital manipulation. She explores themes such as identity, gender, media, and society in her work. She has two images on the list of the most expensive photographs ever sold.
Some of her best works include:
- Untitled Film Stills (1977–1980)
- Centerfolds (1981)
- History Portraits (1988–1990)
You can see more of her work on her official website: https://www.cindysherman.com/
Robert Capa (1913–1954)
Robert Capa was a legendary war photographer and photojournalist who covered some of the most important events of the 20th century, such as the Spanish Civil War, World War II, and the First Indochina War. He was famous for his courage and motto: “If your pictures aren’t good enough, you’re not close enough.” He was also a co-founder of Magnum Photos and a mentor to many young photographers.
Some of his best works include:
- The Falling Soldier (1936)
- D-Day Landing (1944)
- Death of a Loyalist Soldier (1936)
You can see more of his work on Magnum Photos: https://www.magnumphotos.com/photographer/robert-capa/
Steve McCurry (born 1950)
Steve McCurry is one of the most renowned contemporary photographers and photojournalists. He is best known for his iconic portrait of Sharbat Gula, also known as the Afghan Girl, which appeared on the cover of National Geographic in 1985. He has traveled to over 100 countries and documented wars, conflicts, cultures, and people with his vivid and humanistic style. He is also known for his humanitarian work and his involvement in several controversies regarding his ethics and editing practices.
Being a Photoshop graphic designer myself, I’ve looked quite in-depth at photojournalism and ethics issues, so check that out if you want to read more.
Some of McCurry’s his best works include:
- Afghan Girl (1984)
- Dust Storm (1983)
- Train in India (1983)
You can see more of his work on his official website: https://www.stevemccurry.com/
Eliot Porter (1901–1990)
Eliot Porter was an American photographer who pioneered the use of color in nature photography. He started photographing birds and landscapes with a Kodak box camera as a child, and later switched to a Leica camera in 1930. He was influenced by the photographs of Ansel Adams, who encouraged him to work with a large format camera and join the Group f/64, a collective of photographers who advocated for sharpness and realism in photography.
Porter’s breakthrough came in 1941, when he received a Guggenheim Fellowship to photograph birds in color. He used the dye transfer process, which allowed him to control the color saturation and contrast of his prints. He published his first color portfolio, Birds of North America , in 1953, followed by several other books on natural subjects, such as The Place No One Knew: Glen Canyon on the Colorado (1963) and In Wildness Is the Preservation of the World (1962), which featured his photographs alongside quotes from Henry David Thoreau.
Porter’s photographs are remarkable for their subtle and nuanced use of color, their attention to detail and texture, and their poetic and lyrical quality. He showed that color photography could be as expressive and artistic as black and white photography, and that nature photography could be more than just documentation. He also raised awareness about environmental issues and conservation through his images.
Some of his best works are:
- Redbud Tree in Bottomland, Near Red River Gorge , Kentucky (1968)
- Pool in a Brook, Great Spruce Head Island, Maine (1953)
- Autumn Leaves, Mill Brook, New Hampshire (1957)
For more examples from Eliot Porter check out: https://www.artnet.com/artists/eliot-porter/
Dorothea Lange (1895–1965)
Dorothea Lange was a renowned American documentary photographer and photojournalist. She is best known for her powerful images capturing the struggles and human condition during the Great Depression. Lange’s empathetic approach to her subjects and her ability to convey profound emotions through her photographs make her a pioneering figure in documentary photography.
Some of her best-known works include:
- Migrant Mother, Nipomo, California (1936): A poignant portrait of a migrant mother with her children, symbolizing the hardships faced during the Great Depression.
- White Angel Breadline (1933): A striking image depicting unemployed men waiting in a breadline in San Francisco during the economic downturn.
- The American Exodus (1939): Lange’s series documenting the migration of families affected by the Dust Bowl, showcasing the impact of environmental and economic challenges.
Explore more of Dorothea Lange’s impactful work on her official website: https://dorothealange.museumca.org/
Diane Arbus (1923–1971)
Diane Arbus was an American photographer renowned for her unique and often controversial portraits that focused on marginalized and unconventional subjects. Her work is characterized by its candid and intimate approach, providing a glimpse into the lives of individuals who existed on the fringes of society.
Arbus gained widespread recognition for her exploration of the human experience, challenging societal norms and expectations. Her photographs often capture a sense of vulnerability and humanity in her subjects, transcending societal judgments.
Some of her notable works include:
- Identical Twins, Roselle, New Jersey (1967): A striking image of young twin sisters that has become one of Arbus’s most iconic and recognized photographs.
- Child with Toy Hand Grenade in Central Park, New York City (1962): This photograph captures a young boy in an intense, contemplative moment, holding a toy grenade, symbolizing the complexities of childhood and the human condition.
- A Young Man with Curlers (1970): An intriguing photograph capturing a young man with curlers, long nails and smoking, exploring themes of identity and societal expectations.
Experience more of Diane Arbus’s thought-provoking photography at the https://www.artnet.com/artists/diane-arbus/
Annie Leibovitz (Born 1949–Present)
Annie Leibovitz is a contemporary American portrait photographer renowned for her distinctive and often provocative images of celebrities and cultural figures. With a career spanning several decades, Leibovitz has become one of the most influential photographers of our time, capturing the essence of her subjects with a unique and intimate style.
Leibovitz’s work is characterized by her ability to reveal the personalities of her subjects, often blending artistry and storytelling. She has worked for prestigious publications like Rolling Stone and Vanity Fair, creating iconic and memorable images that have left a lasting impact on the world of photography.
Some of her most well-known works include:
- John Lennon and Yoko Ono (1980): A famous portrait taken just hours before John Lennon’s tragic death, featuring the couple in a tender and intimate embrace.
- Meryl Streep as Margaret Thatcher (2009): A powerful portrait of Meryl Streep in character as Margaret Thatcher for the film “The Iron Lady,” showcasing Leibovitz’s skill in capturing the essence of her subjects.
- Whoopi Goldberg in a Milk Bath (1984): An unconventional and visually striking portrait of Whoopi Goldberg submerged in a milk bath, showcasing Leibovitz’s ability to create memorable and thought-provoking images.
Explore more of Annie Leibovitz’s iconic portraits on her Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/annieleibovitz/
Richard Avedon (1923–2004)
Richard Avedon was an influential American fashion and portrait photographer known for his distinctive style and innovative approach to capturing the essence of his subjects. With a career spanning over six decades, Avedon’s work has left an indelible mark on the worlds of fashion and photography.
Avedon’s photography is characterized by its minimalist yet impactful style, often featuring subjects in stark, high-contrast settings. His ability to reveal the personality and vulnerability of his subjects set him apart as a master portraitist.
Some of his most notable works include:
- Dovima with Elephants (1955): An iconic fashion photograph featuring model Dovima posing elegantly between two elephants at a circus, showcasing Avedon’s ability to blend fashion and art seamlessly.
- In the American West (1979–1984): A seminal series of portraits depicting individuals from the American West, capturing the raw and unfiltered essence of his subjects.
- Marilyn Monroe (1957): A captivating and intimate portrait of the iconic actress, highlighting Avedon’s talent for revealing the humanity behind the celebrity.
Immerse yourself in the timeless work of Richard Avedon by exploring his portfolio at the Richard Avedon Foundation.
Sebastião Salgado (Born 1944–Present)
Sebastião Salgado is a Brazilian documentary photographer and photojournalist acclaimed for his powerful and evocative black-and-white images that focus on social issues and the human condition. With a background in economics, Salgado’s work often explores themes of labor, migration, and the impact of global events on marginalized communities.
Salgado’s photography is characterized by its depth, compassion, and commitment to social justice. His projects often involve extensive travels to remote and challenging locations, capturing the resilience and dignity of the people he photographs.
Some of his significant works include:
- Workers (1993): A monumental project documenting the lives of manual laborers worldwide, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of individuals engaged in various forms of work.
- Genesis (2013): A visually stunning series that portrays pristine landscapes, wildlife, and indigenous communities, emphasizing the need for environmental conservation and coexistence.
- Migrations (2000): A poignant exploration of the global issue of migration, featuring images that highlight the struggles, displacement, and resilience of people on the move.
Discover more of Sebastião Salgado’s impactful photography at his official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SebastiaoSalgadoOficial/
Edward Weston (1886–1958)
Edward Weston was a pioneering American photographer and one of the leading figures in 20th-century modernist photography. Known for his precise compositions and mastery of form, Weston played a crucial role in shaping the aesthetics of fine art photography. His work primarily focused on still life, nudes, and landscapes, showcasing a commitment to capturing the essence of his subjects with a meticulous and innovative approach.
Weston’s photography is characterized by its sharp focus, careful use of lighting, and attention to detail. He co-founded Group f/64, a collective of like-minded photographers advocating for the use of small apertures to achieve maximum sharpness and depth of field.
Some of his noteworthy works include:
- Pepper №30 (1930): A famous still-life photograph featuring a close-up of a bell pepper, celebrated for its extraordinary detail and form.
- Nude (1925): Weston’s exploration of the human form, particularly the female nude, demonstrates his ability to convey sensuality and abstraction through photography.
- Point Lobos (1940): A striking landscape photograph showcasing the rugged beauty of the California coastline, reflecting Weston’s affinity for natural forms.
Explore more of Edward Weston’s influential work at the Center for Creative Photography (https://ccp.arizona.edu/artists/edward-weston).
Man Ray (1890–1976)
Man Ray was an influential American modernist artist and photographer who lived during the Dada and Surrealist movements. Born Emmanuel Radnitzky, he is renowned for his avant-garde contributions to photography and his exploration of unconventional techniques. Man Ray’s innovative approach included techniques like solarization and rayographs, pushing the boundaries of traditional photography.
Some of his best-known works include:
- Larmes (1932) — A close-up photograph of a woman’s face with tears streaming down her cheeks.
- Le Violon d’Ingres (1924) — A surrealist photograph featuring a woman’s back adorned with f-holes, resembling a violin.
- Noire et Blanche (1926) — This iconic photograph showcases a juxtaposition of a white woman and an African mask, symbolizing cultural and racial themes.
Explore more of Man Ray’s groundbreaking art on his official website: https://www.manray-photo.com/
Irving Penn (1917–2009)
Irving Penn was an American photographer known for his mastery in both fashion and portrait photography. Active during the mid-20th century, Penn’s work often displayed a meticulous attention to detail and composition. He worked for Vogue magazine for many years, creating iconic images that elevated fashion photography to an art form. Penn’s minimalist style and use of natural light set him apart, making him a pioneer in the industry.
Some of his most notable works include:
- Mouth (for L’Oréal) (1986) — A striking close-up of a model’s lips, showcasing Penn’s attention to detail and focus on simplicity.
- The Tarot Reader (1949) — A captivating portrait of Jean Patchett, a renowned model, highlighting Penn’s ability to capture personality and emotion.
- Cuzco Children (1948) — Penn’s exploration of cultural portraits, showcasing children from Cuzco, Peru, in traditional attire.
Immerse yourself in Irving Penn’s timeless photography on his official website: https://www.irvingpenn.org/
Andreas Gursky (born 1955)
Andreas Gursky is a contemporary German photographer known for his large-scale, digitally manipulated images that often depict landscapes, architecture, and scenes of modern life. His work is characterized by its meticulous detail, vibrant colors, and a grand scale that transforms ordinary subjects into extraordinary visual experiences. Gursky’s photographs often comment on the impact of globalization and the role of technology in shaping our perception of the world.
Some of his most renowned works include:
- Rhein II (1999) — An iconic photograph of the Rhine River, featuring a minimalist composition and subtle color palette.
- 99 Cent (1999) — A visually overwhelming image capturing the interior of a 99 Cent store, reflecting on consumerism and the abundance of goods.
- Chicago Board of Trade III (2009) — Gursky’s exploration of the trading floor of the Chicago Board of Trade, conveying the complexity and intensity of financial markets.
Discover more of Andreas Gursky’s compelling visual narratives on his official website: https://www.andreasgursky.com/
Finley Harper (1920–2005)
Born in 1920, Harper’s mystique lies in his ability to capture the essence of fleeting moments through a lens that never physically existed.
A master of the ethereal and surreal, Harper’s work transcended the boundaries of conventional photography, leaving an indelible mark on the art world. His imaginary portfolio is filled with captivating images that blend reality and fantasy.
Some of the fictitious masterpieces attributed to Finley Harper include:
- Celestial Reverie (1947) — A series of shots of contemporary dancers with compositions featuring levitating figures bathed in otherworldly light, suggesting a celestial dance of the imagination.
- Labyrinth of Whispers (1955) — An intricately woven tapestry of shadows and reflections, challenging the viewer’s perception of space and dimension.
- Infinite Horizons (1982) — A panoramic exploration of landscapes that seamlessly blend elements of various terrains, suggesting an infinite and interconnected world beyond our conventional understanding.
And if you’re wondering why you’ve neved heard of Finley Harper it’s because he doesn’t exist. Using AI (artificial intelligence), I created and imagined a photographer and his works.
I’ve been experimenting a lot lately with AI photography which is a relatively new and controversial domain which deals with generating interesting photo realistic images from text descriptions.
Using free online tools like MockoFun anybody can create photo with the AI image generator from text simply by inputing details about the composition, subject, etc.
Finley Harper is a fictional character crafted within the realms of imagination, representing a photographer who never existed but seamlessly integrates into the narrative of photography’s history.
I believe that AI photography should not be dismissed from the domain of visual arts, but rather seen as an evolutionary step. It opens up awesome new possibilities for creators of art.
What do you think?
In Conclusion
As we conclude this exploration, it becomes clear that the art of photography is a kaleidoscope of perspectives, techniques, and emotions. Through the powerful gaze of these photographers, we witness not only the beauty of the world but also the profound impact of individual expression and innovation.
In the words frozen in silver halide or captured in pixels, these photographers have left an enduring legacy. May their work serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring photographers and enthusiasts alike, reminding us that every click of the shutter has the potential to shape the visual tapestry of our shared human experience.
