Known for his black-and-white landscapes, Ansel Adams is perhaps the most well-known and beloved photographer from the United States. His artistic style differed from contemporary trends, favoring realistic, crisp imagery that utilized a full tonal range. Adams’ photography, spiritual reverence for nature, and lifelong association with the Sierra Club, one of the first environmental protection organizations in the world, made his reputation as a prominent environmentalist. His photography and wide-recognition as an artist helped drive the American Environmental movement during the second half of the 20th century.

As a child he fared poorly in the education system due to his dyslexia but was fascinated with nature and music from an early age. Before he devoted himself fully to photography, he garnered significant skill as a pianist, having taught himself how to play and read music at age twelve. He began photographing landscapes while working as a custodian of the Sierra Club Lounge in Yosemite National Park.