Born in Bamako, Mali, Seydou Keïta began his career as a self-taught photographer in the 1940s. He opened his own portrait studio in 1948, where he captured thousands of images of the local population, documenting the evolving fashion and social identity of the city during the transition toward Malian independence.

Keïta is best known for his signature use of patterned backdrops and natural light, which provided a distinct aesthetic for his subjects. His portraits often featured individuals, families, and groups posed with props such as bicycles, radios, and cars, reflecting the aspirations and modernizing culture of mid-century Bamako.

His work has gained significant international recognition in the decades since his studio closed, with his photographs now held in major institutional collections worldwide. Recent acquisitions, including those by the Tate, continue to highlight his enduring influence on contemporary photography and the global representation of African visual culture.