Let's make this birthday one to remember.

85 years old (Born on March 20, 1940)

Happy Birthday to the legendary Mary Ellen Mark! Your camera lens has captured history with unmatched wit and compassion—from powerful Vietnam War protests that shook society, to pivotal moments in feminism where your photographs spoke louder than words. You've documented humanity's triumphs and struggles alike, always finding humor even amidst profound seriousness.

Your shelves must be groaning under all those National Endowment for the Arts awards and Robert F. Kennedy Journalism honors you've collected over time—hope there's still room left for birthday cake! May today bring you as much joy (and fewer deadlines) as your timeless images have brought us laughter, insight, and inspiration through decades of storytelling brilliance.