In the 1950s, there were few stars as luminous as Grace Kelly. With her timeless beauty and sophisticated charm, she was a Hollywood darling who captured the public’s imagination. The woman behind the stardom was immortalized by the lens of Virgil Apger, a skilled photographer who had the unique talent of capturing the essence of his subjects. Today, we journey back in time to explore the captivating portraits of Grace Kelly taken by Apger in the 1950s.
The Man Behind the Camera: Virgil Apger
Virgil Apger was no ordinary photographer. Born in 1903, Apger honed his skills during the golden age of Hollywood, working under the tutelage of his brother-in-law and celebrated studio photographer, Eugene Richee. Apger joined the prestigious MGM studios in 1931, and his talent for capturing the grace and glamour of Hollywood’s biggest stars quickly made him a sought-after photographer.
Grace Kelly: Hollywood’s Starlet
In the 1950s, Grace Kelly was the epitome of Hollywood glamour. A highly talented actress and renowned for her beauty, she was a favourite of directors, audiences and photographers alike. With her cool elegance and refined beauty, Kelly was a perfect subject for a photographer like Apger, who had a knack for highlighting the unique charm of his subjects.
A Unique Collaboration
Apger’s photographs of Grace Kelly are a stunning testament to both his talent and her beauty. Taken at a time when Kelly was at the height of her fame, these images showcase the actress’s trademark elegance and charm.
In one of Apger’s most iconic shots, Kelly is photographed in profile, her face delicately lit and her eyes casting a dreamy gaze. Dressed in a simple yet stylish dress, her elegance is unmistakable. Another notable image captures Kelly in a relaxed pose, her signature smile lighting up her face, as if she’s sharing a secret with the viewer.
Apger’s portraits of Kelly offer us a glimpse into the life of a Hollywood icon. Through his lens, we can appreciate her beauty and poise, and understand why she was – and remains – such an admired figure.
When Apger retired from MGM in 1969, he left behind a remarkable legacy of striking portraits that captured the magic and allure of Hollywood’s golden age. His photos of Grace Kelly, along with other stars, serve as an enduring testament to his talent, vision, and the glamorous era in which he worked.
