History of the Infamous Pirelli Photography Calendar

Photography Tips

This year will mark the 50th anniversary of the Pirelli Calendar, a publication so high in status that most photographers only dream about being a part of it.

This 50th Anniversary Photographer Retrospective by the Fashion Channel shows some of the best Pirelli photographers, including Karl Lagerfeld, Annie Leibovitz and Norman Parkinson at work.

Here’s a quick rundown of the History of the Pirelli Calendar:

1964 – 1974

Looking for a way to stand out from its British competition, Pirelli UK Limited, the Italian tire manufacturer’s UK subsidiary, comes up with the glamorous and artistic Pirelli Calendar in 1964.

The Group turns to Derek Forsyth to be the art director, and Robert Freeman, who’s known for the photography work he did with The Beatles.

The first decade brings in the most acclaimed photographers of the time to start making a name for the calendar as a fashion and cultural trendsetter.

1975 – 1983

The publication takes a break for nine years as a cut-back due to the world recession caused by the oil crisis.

1984 – 1994

The calendar relaunches in 1984 and progressively gains success in the photography and fashion industries over the next decade.

1994 – Present

The Pirelli Calendar continues to be a trailblazer, showcasing some of the most admired and sought after photographers and models of our time.

The last thing left in nature is the attractiveness and the beauty of women. – Peter Beard