Cinematographer John Alton (1901-1996) photographed some of the most famous films noir of the classic period. He started out in Los Angeles as a lab technician in the 1920s, later becoming a cameraman. Later, he moved to France and South America where he created many Spanish-language films. He returned to Hollywood in the late 1930s and became one of the most sought after cinematographers in movies.

Alton was known for unconventional camera angles - expecially low camera shots.

His style is most notable in He Walked By Night , The Big Combo, The Amazing Mr. X , T-Men and Raw Deal . Alton also photographed many color movies including Slightly Scarlet and winning an Academy award for An American in Paris.