Charles Darwin
Born into affluence in 1809, Charles Darwin (1809–1882) had portraits taken throughout his life, from his youth to old age. As he rose to fame for revolutionizing biology, his demand for photographs increased significantly.
A fan of photography himself, Darwin seldom turned down photo sessions. It’s believed he made a point of being photographed regularly, aiming for a portrait annually or every other year in his later years. Click next to discover someone we only have two photos of!
Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln (1809–1865) was president of the U.S. from 1861 to 1865, steering the nation through the Civil War, championing the end of slavery, and modernizing its economy. He lived during photography’s early development, making him one of the most photographed individuals of his time.
Due to his prominence, Lincoln reportedly sat for over 36 photographers, resulting in nearly 120 known images—most of them portraits taken in the final 18 years of his life. Keep reading to see genuine photos of someone we once thought existed only in paintings!
Albert Einstein
Einstein’s wild hair became nearly as iconic as his scientific genius, frequently appearing in informal photographs. These candid images show his lighter, more approachable side.
Often seen alongside fellow scientists or lost in thought, his photos highlight his deep involvement in the scientific world and his approachable, witty personality, which endeared him to many. Up next: a glimpse of the real Charlie Chaplin!
Charlie Chaplin
A legendary figure from the silent film era, Charlie Chaplin’s photos—both in costume and as himself—reveal the expressive emotion and nuance that defined his timeless performances.
Beyond comedy, these portraits also reflect his sensitivity and social awareness, underscoring how his films tackled issues of his day.
Sitting Bull
Sitting Bull, the iconic Hunkpapa Lakota Sioux chief, appears in powerful photographs that reflect his unwavering resolve and authority. His proud demeanor and calm strength represent his stand against U.S. encroachment and his commitment to his people's traditions.
These portraits go beyond appearance—they convey his deep spiritual leadership and enduring cultural importance during a period of upheaval for Native Americans. Coming up: rare images of Nikola Tesla!
Nikola Tesla
Inventor and visionary Nikola Tesla (1856–1943) appears in many images that hint at both his character and his work. He's often shown in his lab, surrounded by his devices.
Tesla recognized photography’s promotional power, using it to help communicate his cutting-edge inventions and futuristic thinking. Don’t miss these rare glimpses into a newly rediscovered historical figure!
Alexander Graham Bell
Images of Bell capture his intense curiosity and passion for invention, showing him surrounded by devices like the telephone and lesser-known innovations such as the photophone.
They portray not just a prolific inventor but also a dedicated teacher and a tireless advocate for science and education.
Charles Dickens
One of the most celebrated writers in English literature, Charles Dickens (1812–1870) is known for classics like Great Expectations and Oliver Twist. Photos of him provide a rare window into the man behind the stories.
Though wary of being photographed, he acknowledged its influence. Many photos exist despite his reluctance, including a recently found 1861 image showing him with a tan and mustache, offering a softer contrast to his usual stern portraits.
Queen Victoria
Queen Victoria (1819–1901) reigned over the United Kingdom for over six decades and was one of the first royals to be widely photographed. Her images helped shape how the monarchy was perceived.
From formal sittings to intimate family scenes, these photos trace not only her life but also the evolution of photography itself, from early daguerreotypes to newer formats.
Marie Curie
Marie Curie, born Maria Sklodowska, was a pioneering French physicist and the only person to win Nobel Prizes in two different sciences.
Photographs often show her immersed in her lab or attending academic functions, capturing her unrelenting dedication to research. These images reflect her status as a groundbreaking figure who helped pave the way for women in science.
Emily Dickinson
Unlike many historical figures, Emily Dickinson (1830–1886) left behind only a couple of photographs. For a long time, just one image of her—taken in 1847 at age 16—was known and preserved at Amherst College.
An 1859 daguerreotype, believed to show her with her friend Kate Scott Turner, has since surfaced. Thanks to these rare photos, we get a brief look at the reclusive poet who left a profound impact on American literature.
Mark Twain
Mark Twain, whose real name was Samuel Langhorne Clemens, remains one of America’s most influential writers and humorists. Known for works like The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, he was also a public figure frequently photographed throughout his life.
These portraits, ranging from formal studio shots to casual snapshots, highlight Twain’s evolving persona—from sharp-dressed young writer to the white-suited icon of American literature. Up next: a peek at the real Louisa May Alcott.
Vincent van Gogh
Vincent van Gogh, the post-impressionist whose art left a lasting mark on 20th-century painting, is preserved in only a few but deeply expressive photographs.
One standout image from 1886 shows a reflective and somber van Gogh, offering a rare look into the troubled soul behind the vivid, energetic brushstrokes that define his legacy.
Alfred Nobel
Alfred Nobel, the man behind dynamite and founder of the Nobel Prizes, appears in photographs that present him as a thoughtful and introspective figure.
These images mirror his complex dual identity as both a scientific pioneer and a man burdened by the consequences of his inventions’ destructive potential.
Karl Marx
Karl Marx (1818–1883), philosopher, economist, and revolutionary thinker, transformed global politics through works like The Communist Manifesto and Das Kapital. His ideas on capitalism and class struggle ignited movements that reshaped nations.
Photographs often portray Marx as stern and deeply contemplative, mirroring the gravity of his theories. His focused expression in these portraits aligns with his lifelong pursuit of societal change through socialism.
Sigmund Freud
Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis, had a reserved attitude toward being photographed, despite living in an era that embraced personal imagery.
He is often shown in his study, surrounded by books and ancient artifacts, which reflect his intellectual curiosity and fascination with culture, history, and the unconscious mind—central themes in his groundbreaking psychological theories.
Clara Barton
Photographs of Clara Barton depict her quiet determination and strength, revealing her as both a compassionate nurse and an effective leader. Dressed in modest yet formal clothing, her attire speaks to her practical nature during times of war and disaster.
These portraits emphasize Barton’s trailblazing role in American humanitarian work, especially her founding of the American Red Cross in a male-dominated sphere.
Oscar Wilde
Oscar Wilde (1854–1900), the Irish writer and playwright known for his wit and flamboyance, was extensively photographed in poses that captured his unique fashion and magnetic charm.
These portraits reflect both his rise as a Victorian literary icon and the controversies that ultimately defined his legacy.
Sojourner Truth
Sojourner Truth, a staunch advocate for abolition and women’s rights, skillfully leveraged photography for activism. She sold cartes-de-visite of herself alongside the phrase, “I sell the shadow to support the substance,” using them to fund her work.
These dignified portraits helped counter racial stereotypes and amplified her powerful voice in the fight for justice.
Florence Nightingale
Florence Nightingale (1820–1910), the pioneer of modern nursing, was rarely photographed, but the existing images underscore the significance of her contributions.
Her legacy is most visible through her work in the Crimean War, where she cared for injured soldiers and trained nurses. She was honored with the Royal Red Cross by Queen Victoria in 1883.
Thomas Edison
Thomas Edison (1847–1931), the inventive mind behind the phonograph and the practical light bulb, was frequently photographed, charting his transformation from young innovator to renowned industrial leader.
His photos reveal an astute awareness of image, helping solidify his role as one of America’s most iconic inventors.
Helen Keller
Helen Keller, who lost her sight and hearing in early childhood, is often shown in photos with her teacher Anne Sullivan, capturing the profound connection between them and Keller’s relentless pursuit of communication.
These images often depict her at speaking engagements or with notable figures, underscoring her influence as a writer and activist who transcended her physical limitations.
Pablo Picasso
Pablo Picasso, a titan of 20th-century art, was regularly photographed among his creations, offering glimpses into his evolving artistic journey.
These photos reflect the energy and innovation that defined his life and groundbreaking work.
John Quincy Adams
John Quincy Adams (1767–1848), sixth president of the U.S., appears in the earliest surviving photograph of any American president. Born in Massachusetts, he spent much of his youth abroad due to his father’s diplomatic work.
The iconic daguerreotype, taken in 1843 by Philip Haas, captures him during his time in Congress after his presidency. Today, it's housed in the National Portrait Gallery and valued at up to $250,000.
Mark Twain
Mark Twain, celebrated author of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, is well-represented in photography, often with his recognizable mustache and sharp grin.
His images range from public lectures to quiet moments at home, showcasing his dual roles as entertainer and introspective writer.
Thomas Hardy
English author and poet Thomas Hardy (1840–1928) is depicted in later-life photographs as a solemn, thoughtful man, deeply influenced by the melancholy themes in his writing.
These portraits reflect the emotional depth found in his explorations of rural life and social decay.
Leo Tolstoy
Leo Tolstoy (1828–1910), one of literature’s greatest figures, is renowned for his sweeping narratives and moral inquiries.
He was photographed throughout his life, from youthful days to his final years as a philosophical elder. A notable image includes a 1908 color portrait—the first of its kind in Russia—taken at his home, Yasnaya Polyana.
Claude Monet
Claude Monet, a founding figure in Impressionism, was frequently photographed in his garden at Giverny, often surrounded by the scenery that inspired his renowned Water Lilies series.
These images highlight his deep bond with nature and his innovative approach to capturing light and atmosphere.
Emiliano Zapata
Emiliano Zapata, a key figure in the Mexican Revolution, is immortalized in striking photographs that reflect his dedication to justice and land reform.
His powerful presence in these images continues to symbolize the ongoing struggle for equality in Mexico.
Andrew Carnegie
Andrew Carnegie, steel magnate turned philanthropist, is frequently shown in photographs related to his charitable projects, particularly public libraries he funded worldwide.
His portraits capture both the industrialist and the social visionary dedicated to education and public welfare.
Grigori Rasputin
Grigori Rasputin (1869–1916), the controversial mystic linked to Russia’s royal family, appears in photos that highlight his intense, enigmatic persona.
The haunting quality of these images adds to the myth surrounding his role in the twilight of the Russian Empire.
John D. Rockefeller
John D. Rockefeller, founder of Standard Oil and a major philanthropist, is seen in many photos balancing his business savvy with his charitable contributions.
These portraits reflect the dual legacy of a man who shaped modern capitalism while also promoting social causes.
Susan B. Anthony
Susan B. Anthony (1820–1906), a central figure in the American women’s suffrage movement, was often photographed in a way that underscored her leadership and commitment.
Her portraits remain enduring emblems of the fight for women’s rights in the U.S.
Mahatma Gandhi
Mahatma Gandhi, leader of India’s nonviolent resistance to British rule, is frequently pictured in a simple cotton dhoti, symbolizing his ideals of humility and self-reliance.
These iconic images communicate his dedication to peaceful protest and Indian independence.
Giuseppe Garibaldi
Giuseppe Garibaldi, a hero of Italian unification, is often shown in military dress, embodying his revolutionary spirit and unwavering resolve.
These images cement his place as both a national icon and a symbol of Italy’s struggle for unity and freedom.
Lizzie Borden
Lizzie Borden (1860–1927), infamously tried for the axe murders of her parents, appears in photographs that reveal a reserved and complex woman.
Her guarded expressions hint at the emotional burden of a public forever haunted by scandal and speculation.
Phineas T. Barnum
Phineas T. Barnum, the legendary showman, is pictured with the eclectic attractions that made him famous, often dressed to match his theatrical personality.
These photos show a man who mastered spectacle and understood the power of image in creating wonder.
Elizabeth Cady Stanton
Elizabeth Cady Stanton, a leader in the early American women’s rights movement, appears in photographs as resolute and composed.
Her determined gaze and dignified presence reflect her vital role in the long fight for gender equality.
Claude Debussy
French composer Claude Debussy is shown in photographs that capture his introspective, artistic temperament.
These subdued, thoughtful portraits mirror his revolutionary approach to music and emotional expression.
Harriet Beecher Stowe
Harriet Beecher Stowe, author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin and a powerful voice against slavery, is captured in photos radiating strength and conviction.
Her composed demeanor and serious expression speak to her moral resolve and social conscience.
Louis Pasteur
Louis Pasteur, the groundbreaking French scientist, is often depicted in his lab, surrounded by the tools of discovery.
These images highlight his meticulous work in microbiology and vaccination that changed the course of medicine.
Gustave Eiffel
Photos of Gustave Eiffel show him amid his engineering marvels, particularly the Eiffel Tower.
His poised appearance conveys the intellect and ambition behind structures that came to symbolize innovation during the industrial age.
Karl Benz
Karl Benz, creator of the first practical automobile, is often seen alongside his inventions in historical photographs.
These images reflect his pioneering role in revolutionizing personal transportation.
Mary Cassatt
Mary Cassatt, an American artist who was part of the French Impressionist movement, appears in photos that reveal her independence and creative passion.
Her focus on the lives of women is subtly echoed in the character and tone of her portraits.
Henri Becquerel
Henri Becquerel, best known for discovering radioactivity, is frequently photographed in scholarly settings.
These images emphasize his pivotal contributions to modern physics and chemistry.
Al Capone
Al Capone, one of America’s most notorious gangsters, is featured in photographs that show both his public image and more intimate moments.
These contrasting visuals illustrate a figure viewed by some as a criminal mastermind and by others as a populist antihero.