Irving Penn (1917–2009) was a pioneering American photographer renowned for his contributions to fashion, portrait, and still life photography. Studying under Alexey Brodovitch at the Philadelphia Museum School of Industrial Art, Penn began his career as a graphic artist before transitioning to photography. He became a prominent figure at Vogue from 1943 onwards, celebrated for his refined elegance and minimalist style. Penn's work is characterized by precise compositions and innovative lighting, and his collaborations with models like Lisa Fonssagrives, whom he married in 1950, were particularly influential. His photographs are part of major museum collections worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art and the National Gallery of Art.