New Photography Book WITH THE BEATLES by Robert Whitaker Captures Beatlemania

Related: WITH THE BEATLES, Photography, Hardcover

From 1964 to 1966, the world was consumed by Beatlemania, and one man, the band's "official" photographer, Robert Whitaker, was there to capture it all. From candid and personal moments to concerts and cover shoots, With the Beatles (Time Home Entertainment, Inc.; hardcover; 2012; $39.95) features hundreds of remarkable images that offer an inside look as the lads from Liverpool became the biggest thing on the planet.

Most of the book is filled with never-before-seen and rare photos of the Fab Four. Whitaker was, in a sense, the "fifth Beatle" during the height of Beatlemania. He was, at the same time, their contemporary and their chronicler. Hired by the band's manager Brian Epstein, he traveled with them around the world and played an important role in shaping and projecting their image as it transitioned from cute to cutting edge. With the Beatles features hundreds of photos personally selected by Whitaker, including dozens that are rare or appear for the very first time on these pages.

At work, at rest, at play – performing, napping, recording, posing – the Beatles are seen in a variety of settings and moods, both weird and wonderful, during their wild ride. Whitaker captures moments of happiness and humor, mischievousness and creativity, boredom and fatigue – and, above all, the mania.

Whitaker worked with the editors of LIFE on this special book until his final days, ensuring that all of us would be able to experience what is was like to be with the Beatles.

About LIFE
The editors at LIFE vigorously carry on the traditions of excellence in photography, journalism and storytelling about our country and our world, which began with the founding of LIFE magazine in 1936 by editor and publisher Henry R. Luce. They have published books on a broad range of subjects, including New York Times bestsellers One Nation, LIFE Picture Puzzle and The American Journey of Barack Obama. The LIFE channel on TIME.com features LIFE's legendary photo archives. The acclaimed LIFE for iPad app reached #1 in 33 countries shortly after its November 2010 launch.