12 Dazzling Marilyn Monroe Photoshoot Ideas

Want to embrace your inner screen goddess by using dazzling Marilyn Monroe photoshoot ideas? The original blonde bombshell herself, Marilyn Monroe has inspired countless people with her distinctive look and charming personality. One way that her legacy has carried on is in numerous modeling homages! With such an iconic career and so many looks to choose from, it’s no wonder that she’s inspired photographers and models alike for many years.

If you’re looking for some locations that can bring your Marilyn Monroe photoshoot to life, then Peerspace has you covered! You’ll need a backdrop just as beautiful as the woman herself and here we’ve gathered twelve dazzling Marilyn Monroe photoshoot ideas to get you started.

1. Diner photoshoot

A classic look from the 1950s that has remained stuck in the public mind for years and years is the retro diner. What better place for a unique and sexy Marilyn Monroe photoshoot? Throw on a waitress outfit and have some fun! If you’re in the Los Angeles area and need a place, why not try this spacious downtown sun drenched 50s retro neon diner? The more authentic the set, the more you’ll be able to slip into Marilyn’s shoes, and Peerspace gives you access to the best of the best.

2. Poolside photoshoot

Maybe you’ve got a closet full of retro-style swimsuits that are just itching to get out for a photoshoot! Marilyn had so many poolside photoshoots that are sure to inspire a look for just about anybody. If you’ve got the swimsuit but don’t have the pool, then Peerspace has many beautiful homes available to you so you can get the job done. Take for example this mid-century modern oasis in Tucson! Take full advantage of the indoor space as well: ”Beautiful light and bright Mid Century Modern home with floor to ceiling windows overlooking a gorgeous backyard oasis.”

3. Retro camper photoshoot

Another way you can bring your take on Marilyn to the great outdoors is a camping photoshoot! During her time in the 40s and 50s camping was becoming a fast favorite activity of American families, and thankfully some of these retro campers still exist to this day. This retro “Shasta” camper in downtown Indianapolis is a perfect location for your Marilyn Monroe photoshoot ideas. Retro inside and out, it’s got the iconic mid-century backdrop we know and love!

4. Old Hollywood photoshoot

Marilyn Monroe really made a splash when she was starring in big Hollywood movies! From “Some Like it Hot” to “The Seven Year Itch” there are so many iconic looks to choose from that it can be hard to pick. Since she was a pearl in her own right, this retro Hollywood glam bedroom photography set with clamshell mermaid headboard in Dallas is the perfect place for this dazzling Marilyn Monroe photoshoot idea!

5. Office photoshoot

It may be a little bit on the tail end of her stardom, but a 1960s office or ‘Mad Men’ inspired Marilyn Monroe photoshoot could provide an interesting spin on the starlet! If you’re in the Denver area and are looking for something authentic, then these retro sets that include an office has everything you need!

6. Bar/speakeasy photoshoot

Another way to show off Marilyn’s classic style in some evening wear or a gorgeous retro dress is at a bar or speakeasy set. Mix up a martini and relax, showing the more charming and fun side of Marilyn as you dazzle the camera with her bold looks. Peerspace has some really cool bars and restaurants that you can access like this vintage retro bar and restaurant in Brooklyn, which offers a background that pops and even a classic jukebox!

7. Beach photoshoot

Marilyn Monroe has so many famous photos of her at the beach or modeling swimsuits for movies and print. If you’re in Marilyn’s hometown of Los Angeles then this retro beach style house in Playa Del Rey will check all your boxes: ”This home has a deck that sits right on a large stretch of sand, a uniquely furnished interior, and floor to ceiling windows all facing the ocean.” Throw on your classic mid-century swimsuit and plant your umbrella here for a really dazzling Marilyn Monroe photoshoot idea.

8. LA skyline photoshoot

While we’re on the subject of Marilyn Monroe’s hometown, why not use the city that made her famous as the backdrop for your photoshoot? This beautiful downtown loft with downtown Los Angeles skyline view is an ideal location! Complete with some chic retro furnishings, you’ve got all your bases covered. Check it out!

9. Farm photoshoot

Maybe you’ve got more of a country charm and want to give your take on Marilyn Monroe the same kind of sensibilities? Throw on your cowboy hat and boots for an interesting take on the classic blonde! This bucolic horse farm in the Hudson Valley gives you over 40 acres to work with, so you’re sure to find something perfect for your farm photoshoot. They even provide horses so you can recreate one of Marilyn’s looks from her Western film roles!

10. Kitchen photoshoot

Marilyn Monroe started off her early career with a fair bit of promotional and advertising modeling. In fact. from high fashion to kitchenware, she did it all! If you’re looking for a dazzling Marilyn Monroe photoshoot idea that is a little different, then try some kitchen modeling of your own! You probably don’t have a home outfitted with mid-century modern furniture and accents to make your photoshoot complete, but this retro Palm Springs bungalow in the heart of Indy does.

11. Monochromatic photoshoot

One interesting way you can play around with some different Marilyn outfits is with a monochromatic photoshoot! Pick a color and stick with the theme. Depending on what you’re working with, the classic blonde hair will definitely stand out. If you need ready-made options, then the Boxie Studio in downtown Los Angeles has several unique and retro monochromatic sets to choose from!

12. Athletic photoshoot

Another unique way you can show off your take on Marilyn Monroe is with athletic attire! Show Marilyn in action working out with some retro workout clothes or playing sports. This retro tennis club and desert lodge in California is a perfect spot to showcase a Marilyn Monroe photoshoot in some really cute tennis outfits!

Find unique photoshoot locations on Peerspace