10 Photos From the 20th Century That Look Staged

The 20th century produced countless historic photographs that shaped how we remember the past. Some of these images, however, look almost too perfect or carefully arranged to be spontaneous.

Tricia Quitales
November 3, 2025
4 min read

10 Photos From the 20th Century That Look Staged — Pavel Danilyuk on Pexels

Photography in the 20th century captured many iconic moments, yet some images appear surprisingly posed or unnatural. Whether due to the technology of the time or deliberate staging, these photos provoke curiosity and debate. They reveal how photographers balanced capturing reality with creating compelling narratives. Exploring these moments highlights the blend of art and documentation in early photojournalism.

1. 1. The Raising of the Flag on Iwo Jima

One of the most famous World War II images, this photo shows soldiers raising a flag atop Mount Suribachi. Though it appears candid, the iconic shot was actually staged for a better angle and composition. The initial flag raised was smaller and replaced with a larger one for the photo. The soldiers repositioned multiple times to capture the perfect frame. Despite being posed, the photo symbolized unity and victory.

2. 2. The Beatles Crossing Abbey Road

This classic image shows the band members walking across a zebra crossing, now world-famous. The shot was planned by photographer Iain Macmillan and took only 10 minutes to complete. Paul McCartney’s barefoot appearance sparked numerous rumors and interpretations. The setting and poses were deliberately chosen for visual impact. Its carefully constructed nature adds to its timeless appeal.

3. 3. The Hindenburg Disaster

Photographers and newsreel cameras captured the tragic moment of the Hindenburg airship catching fire. Some argue that the staged quality stems from how people appear calm or posed despite the disaster unfolding. The timing of the shot, with smoke perfectly framed, also feels too precise. Cameras were set up in anticipation, but much of the scene was natural chaos. The photo remains one of the most haunting images of the era.

4. 4. The V-J Day Kiss in Times Square

This iconic image of a sailor kissing a nurse to celebrate the end of World War II looks spontaneous but was actually a reenactment. The photographer asked the subjects to pose after capturing the initial moments. The original kiss happened between strangers, but the photo was staged for clarity and composition. This slight staging has not diminished its emotional power. It captures a cultural moment frozen in time.

5. 5. Stalin with Children

Several photos of Joseph Stalin surrounded by children look overly staged, with perfectly arranged smiles and poses. The dictator’s image was tightly controlled to project a paternal and benevolent image. Children were carefully placed and instructed to create a desired narrative. These photos served propaganda purposes rather than candid snapshots. The staged nature reflects the manipulation of public perception.

6. 6. Rosie the Riveter

The famous “We Can Do It!” poster was based on a photograph of a factory worker posed for the camera. The original photo was not candid but designed to inspire women during World War II. The subject’s confident expression and strong posture were crafted for maximum motivational effect. This image was part of a broader campaign to recruit female labor. The photo and poster blend art with purposeful messaging.

7. 7. The Falling Man from 9/11

This harrowing photo shows a man falling from the World Trade Center during the September 11 attacks. Although completely real and tragic, the composition feels eerily perfect, as if staged. The man’s position against the building creates a dramatic, almost artistic silhouette. The image’s unsettling symmetry prompts reflection on how reality sometimes mimics art unintentionally. It is a powerful reminder of the day’s horror.

8. 8. Mao Zedong Reading the Little Red Book

Photographs of Mao holding and reading the Little Red Book often appear highly staged. The poses emphasize authority and devotion to communist ideology. Photographers carefully arranged lighting, Mao’s posture, and background elements. These images were distributed widely as propaganda. The staged nature reinforced political messages during the Cultural Revolution.

9. 9. The Berlin Wall’s Fall

Images capturing the fall of the Berlin Wall show people celebrating, some appearing to pose for the camera. Photographers encouraged jubilant crowds to gather and face the lens. While the emotions were genuine, certain shots were repeated or framed for effect. These staged moments helped convey the significance of freedom and unity. The photos remain symbols of historic change.

10. 10. Marilyn Monroe’s Skirt Scene

Marilyn Monroe’s famous scene with her skirt blowing in the breeze was carefully orchestrated during filming. Photographers and the film crew set up multiple cameras to capture her reaction from different angles. The pose and timing were meticulously planned for maximum glamour and appeal. The staged nature did not detract from Monroe’s iconic status. It became one of the most reproduced images in pop culture.