Tom Kelley is best known for his iconic photographs of Marilyn Monroe, and his contribution to the pin-up genre. Born on December 12, 1914, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he began his career as a photographer in the 1940s, and went on to become one of the most influential photographers of his time.
Tom Kelley began his career in the 1940s, photographing swimsuit models for popular magazines such as Life, Collier's, and Esquire. His work quickly gained recognition, and he became known for his ability to capture the essence of his subjects. In the 1950s, he moved to Hollywood and began photographing celebrities, eventually becoming one of the most sought-after celebrity photographers of his time.
It was in 1949 when Tom Kelley shot his most iconic photograph, the nude photo of Marilyn Monroe. The photograph was initially published anonymously, but it became a sensation when it was published with Monroe's name in 1953. The photograph was later used as the centerfold for the first issue of Playboy magazine, and it became one of the most famous images of Marilyn Monroe. Tom Kelley's photograph of Monroe is an iconic image that has come to symbolize the glamour and allure of Hollywood.
In addition to his work with Marilyn Monroe, Tom Kelley photographed numerous other celebrities, including Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, and Sophia Loren. He also continued to photograph swimsuit models, and his work helped to popularize the pin-up genre.
Tom Kelley's photography has had a significant impact on the world of photography, particularly in the field of glamour and celebrity photography. His ability to capture the beauty and essence of his subjects is what made his work so iconic. His photographs have become an important part of popular culture, and his legacy lives on through his work.