Gustave Le Gray was a French photographer born in 1820, known for his innovative techniques in the early days of photography. He is often credited with developing the collodion process, which allowed for clearer and more detailed images. Le Gray's work included landscapes and portraits, and he was particularly famous for his seascapes, capturing the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea. Le Gray played a significant role in establishing photography as an art form. He was a founding member of the Société Française de Photographie and influenced many photographers, including Julia Margaret Cameron and Edward Weston. His legacy continues to inspire contemporary photographers today.