The image was probably sold on the spot by ... hinting at that other ever-expanding role for American photography: advertising − a sector in which the US was a forerunner.

Kathleen Franz, PhD Selena laughing in a picture from the Coca-Cola photoshoot, photo by Al Rendon, 1994. (NMAH Archives Center) Advertising agencies have relied on images to engage consumers ...

This photo gallery, curated by photo editor Pamela Hassell, highlights some of the most compelling images worldwide published ...