Sometimes he would use this formal-but-not-theatrical mode for Hollywood stars, as in this portrait of that paragon of elegantly sexy manhood, Gary Cooper.
And here’s Thomas Mann.
For literary figures, Steichen would stage his portraits formally, but not theatrically. Here’s W. B. Yeats.
Or this one of Gloria Swanson. (“Mr. de Mille … I’m ready for my closeup!”)
Or this one of Charlie Chaplin.
But Steichen is most famous for his portraits, some of which are theatrically staged, almost a tableau vivant, like this one of Fred Astaire.
If I had to name the greatest photographer of all time, I’d say Henri Cartier-Bresson. But close behind would be Edward Steichen, who is, I believe, the most versatile photographer of all time. One of his most famous photos is this one, of the Flatiron Building in Manhattan.
I updated my post on England’s non-football. ⚽️
All praise to Sir Ollie of Torquay!! 🏴⚽️