Vivian Maier Developed: The Real Story of the Photographer Nanny

"Ann Marks is the definitive expert on Vivian Maier. Where our documentary leaves off, she picks up. Through her meticulously organized and exhaustive research, Marks paints a complete historical profile of the photographer."
-John Maloof, Director & Producer, Academy Award Nominated Film, Finding Vivian Maier

Author Ann Marks unravels the mysteries surrounding the life of Vivian Maier, the nanny who lived secretly as a world-class photographer. Revelations include a traumatic New York childhood with a family at such odds, its ten members were buried in nine different cemeteries. An emotionally damaged Maier overcame early constraints through fortitude, intellect, and immense creative resources, to live an independent, fulfilling life on her own terms.

The only person in the world granted access to 140,000 photographs, home movies and tape recordings, Marks writes the definitive biography, placing the photographer's work in the context of her life experiences and persona. Based on clues found in pictures, genealogical records and interviews with those who knew the photographer during each stage of her life, the biography is rigorously researched and complete. Unlike typical academic prose, Marks' treatment is clear, engaging, and relatable, with a narrative that unfolds like a bestseller. Vivian Maier Developed relates the arc of the photographer's life to her body of work, illustrated with over 500 images, both favorites and unseen, offering an inspiring tale of a socially conscious, uniquely complex and highly talented woman.

Ann Marks is a retired New York business executive with a passion for genealogical research and mystery, who became inspired to unlock the background and family history of photographer Vivian Maier. Marks has studied over 140,000 of Maier’s images in search of biographical clues and insight into the photographer. Her findings have been used to inform a deeper understanding of both the artist and her work.