Many of William Claxton’s photographs of American jazz musicians have become the iconic images by which we remember them - a young Chet Baker lying on his back in the studio, trumpet in hand; Bill Evans and Ray Charles at their pianos; a sparkling Sarah Vaughn; a somber Miles Davis; and countless more.

Less well known is the fact that since the early 1950’s. Claxton has photographed scores of acclaimed actors, artists, directors, musicians, writers, and entertainers.

Photographic Memory, Claxton’s just published first monograph of these images, features 115 wonderful and revealing portraits - only a handful of which have ever been seen before.

published by: PowerHouse Books°

see more at: williamclaxton.com°

Gloria Swanson
Los Angeles, 1962

We met in an antique shop in what is now West Hollywood. When she spotted my camera, it was instant rapport.

I couldn’t help remarking about her beauty. She smiled and said, “Thank you, my dear. But one’s hands tell the truth, I fear.”

James Franco
Los Angeles, 2000

This young actor won an Emmy for his portrayal of the legendary James Dean in the TNT television movie directed by Mark Rydell.

Ray Charles, Marilyn Monroe
Hollywood, 1961

Taken at a Frank Sinatra recording session; Ray is seated to Marilyn’s right.

Benicio Del Toro
Los Angeles, 2001

Mr. Del Toro was modeling a group of men’s white summer suits for a GQ fashion layout.

He amused me by becoming a different character with each outfit that he donned.