Diane arbus biography video waltz

A Life Behind the Lens

Diane Arbus (1923–1971) remains one of the most compelling photographers of the 20th century. Known for her unflinching portraits of those living on the margins of society, Arbus challenged conventional norms of beauty, identity, and art. From circus performers to cross-dressers and nudists, her photography explored the complexities of the human condition, elevating subjects often ignored or misunderstood by mainstream culture.

Early Life and the Path to Photography

Born Diane Nemerov into a wealthy New York family, Arbus grew up with privileges that shielded her from the hardships of the Great Depression. However, the material comfort of her childhood left her yearning for deeper meaning. She married Allan Arbus at 18, and the couple initially pursued a career in commercial photography. They worked together for high-end fashion publications, but Diane found the industry’s superficiality increasingly unfulfilling.

Her creative breakthrough came whe