Faten Hamama

Van Leo, born Levon Boyodjian, elevated portrait photography to new heights by creating imagery that accentuated his subjects’ features through manipulation of lights and shadows. Inspired by postcards of Hollywood movie stars, it was no surprise that he became the photographer of choice for entertainers, the elite, and those seeking an artistic portrait for posterity. His work also included an extensive collection of world-class self-portraits. In spite of ups and downs in his career, which resulted from changes in Egyptian politics and society and the commercialization of photography, Van Leo strove to maintain high standards and stay faithful to his art. His career ended on a high note when his work was recognized and chosen for preservation at the American University in Cairo.

Van Leo’s passion for portrait photography can be traced back to his teenage years, when he was a student at the English Mission College in Cairo’s suburb of Heliopolis. At age 16, he was bored with school work and more interested in sports; however, what the young man became fascinated with was Hollywood postcards which he began collecting. He was drawn to the dramatic side lighting that produced deep shadows, the careful positioning of the hands, the well-chosen props, and the backgrounds, all of which he would later incorporate into his own work. - Barry Iverson