John Bryson, a photojournalist for Life and other magazines, died in his sleep on Aug. 10 at a retirement home in Brookings, Ore. He was 81.
The former Malibu resident began his career as a photographer and picture editor at Life. He later freelanced for several publications. Bryson photographed numerous celebrities over the years, including Frank Sinatra, Clint Eastwood, John F. Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe.
Two of Bryson’s most famous photos were of Ernest Hemingway kicking a beer can in the snow and Salvador Dali wearing a crown of sausages. Known for capturing famous people as they go about their daily lives, Bryson assembled picture books on industrialist Armand Hammer and actress Katherine Hepburn.
Bryson also had a minor career as an actor. He had parts in the films “The Getaway,” “The Osterman Weekend” and “Convoy.” Bryson played himself in “Grand Prix.” He also played Engineer McDermott in the television miniseries, “War and Remembrance.”
The Associated Press reported that Bryson is survived by his daughter, Mary Bryson Baechler, sons John Jr. and Arthur, and many grandchildren.