" I knew Marilyn over a two-year period. I met her first on a movie called ‘Let’s Make Love.’ I photographed her at that time on and off through the time of her death. I was 22 years old and she was 34 or 35. "
- Lawrence Schiller

In the statement provided, Lawrence Schiller reflects on his personal relationship with Marilyn Monroe, a famous actress whose life was marked by both brilliance and tragedy. Schiller describes meeting Monroe during the filming of "Let's Make Love," and mentions that he continued to photograph her intermittently until her death. He also notes that at the time of their first encounter, he himself was very young, just 22 years old, while Marilyn was in her late thirties.

The quote delves deeper into the complex nature of relationships built around celebrity figures. Schiller’s account suggests a significant yet fleeting connection with Monroe, one that occurred during a pivotal period both in her life and his own development as an artist. His statement underscores the stark contrast between their ages at the time and hints at the impact such encounters can have on young individuals who find themselves entangled in the lives of public figures. The photographing aspect also highlights how Schiller’s work might have captured Marilyn Monroe during some of her most vulnerable moments, providing a rare glimpse into the private life of a woman often seen only through the lens of fame and glamour.

Lawrence Schiller is an accomplished American photojournalist and author known for his extensive work with notable personalities such as Muhammad Ali and Robert F. Kennedy. His collaboration with Marilyn Monroe during one of her most tumultuous periods in her career provides insight into both his professional growth and the broader cultural context surrounding famous figures like Monroe. This quote serves to illustrate Schiller's unique perspective on a significant chapter in Monroe’s life, offering readers a personal account of this iconic figure through the eyes of someone who knew her well during the twilight years of her career.