Bahman Jalali, a pioneering figure in Iran's documentary photography, is renowned for capturing pivotal moments in the country's contemporary history, spanning from the 1979 revolution to the eight-year war. His profound influence extends to the establishment and growth of photography and its educational institutions, shaping two subsequent generations of Iranian photographers who inherit his legacy.

Jalali embarked on his journey into photography while studying economics and political science at what is now Shahid Beheshti University, beginning to explore its social and documentary aspects. His early success came in 1970 when he won the Young Amateur Photography Competition award shortly after graduation. This marked the beginning of his enduring collaboration with Tamasha magazine, later renamed Soroush after the revolution, where he contributed until his retirement in 1996. In 1971, Jalali held his first solo exhibition at Qandriz Hall, launching his career as an experimental and self-taught photographer.

In 1975, Jalali furthered his studies in London at the John Vickers School of Photography and became a member of the Royal Society of British Photographers. Upon his return to Iran, he exhibited his London photographs at the "City Gallery," garnering significant acclaim within the Iranian artistic community.

Jalali's camera documented the 1979 revolution, capturing poignant scenes of the struggle between protesters and the government. His compelling images from this period were later featured in the book "Days of Blood, Days of Fire." Throughout the Iran-Iraq War, he ventured into the war zones, producing a remarkable collection that defined his professional career. In another notable project, Jalali collaborated with Asad Behroozan, a prominent Iranian scholar, traveling extensively across Iran to compile a valuable photographic archive.

A dedicated educator, Jalali co-founded the bachelor's degree program in photography at the Faculty of Broadcasting and was instrumental in establishing "The City Photography Museum." He taught at institutions like Tehran University of Art, mentoring numerous aspiring photographers. Internationally acclaimed, Jalali's works have been exhibited globally, including prominent showcases in Barcelona, France, Germany, Finland, former Czechoslovakia, Spain, and Australia.

In addition to his documentary photography, Jalali created photomontages using glass negatives from Golestan Palace and historical Qajar-era photos. These artworks reflect on Iran's historical identity and gender issues with a touch of humor, often integrating mirrors to juxtapose present-day viewers with their historical counterparts. This collection remains highly sought-after in the international art market and auctions, underscoring Jalali's enduring impact on Iranian photography and beyond.