Marilyn Monroe’s legendary photographer opens up on their extraordinary bond

Lawrence Schiller, the renowned photographer who captured iconic moments of the 20th century, has shared intimate insights into his unique relationship with Marilyn Monroe. Now 89, Schiller recounted how Monroe, known for being the most photographed woman in history, once showed a rare vulnerability during a private session in her dressing room. According to Schiller, Monroe noticed his left eye was missing due to childhood trauma and responded with genuine empathy, shifting her demeanor from curiosity to concern. This moment marked the beginning of a deep connection between them. Schiller first encountered Monroe in 1960 while working on the set of Let’s Make Love at 20th Century Fox Studios in Los Angeles. Initially, he believed the encounter would be routine, but it quickly evolved into something far more meaningful. Upon arriving at the studio, he described feeling both exhilarated and anxious. As Monroe entered, dressed in a black leotard and sheer black stockings, she initially seemed distant, passing by as if unaware of his presence. However, when introduced by the publicist as someone from Look magazine, Monroe’s demeanor shifted. She greeted him with warmth, joking, “I’m the Big Bad Wolf,” prompting Schiller to respond with equal playfulness, though he admitted he had no idea why he chose that phrase. Their interaction continued with mutual amusement, as Schiller recalled how his attempt to shake hands resulted in his cameras clattering together, leading to laughter from Monroe. She remarked, “You look a bit young to be so bad,” highlighting the lightheartedness of their initial meeting. Schiller expressed admiration for her fame and acknowledged that meeting her made him feel part of something greater. He quipped, “You’re already famous, now you’re going to make me famous.” Beyond their personal connection, Schiller’s career spanned some of the most pivotal historical events of the latter half of the 20th century. His photographs documented the aftermath of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination and captured Muhammad Ali in the ring. His latest project, Marilyn & Me, celebrates Monroe’s legacy, especially in her centenary year. The book features over 100 images, including previously unseen film outtakes from her final days. These photos offer a glimpse into Monroe’s personality and artistic sensibility. In one particularly revealing moment, Monroe demonstrated her keen understanding of photography, guiding Schiller toward a better lighting position. She tilted her head slightly, indicating a specific spot to the left, explaining that the light would enhance her appearance. Schiller described how she then turned her head halfway, flashing a coy smile that conveyed her confidence and awareness of her own allure. He noted that she seemed to understand light better than he did, giving him a sense of humility in their collaboration. Monroe’s approach to work was unconventional. Schiller recalled instances where she arrived late to shoots, seemingly indifferent to schedules. He learned that she often followed her own time, believing she was underpaid and struggling against the constraints of 20th Century Fox. Rumors circulated that she felt the studio undervalued her talent and treated her unfairly. Despite these challenges, Monroe remained a commanding figure, both on and off camera. As Schiller reflects on his time with Monroe, his memories remain vivid and deeply personal. Their bond transcended mere professional relationships, evolving into something more profound. Through his lens, Monroe remains an enduring symbol of grace, strength, and complexity, a woman whose legacy continues to inspire.