There’s rarely a dull moment in her workday. While many of the images are shot in the studio, Matthews loves getting outside and incorporating elements of the city. She fondly recalls capturing Jim Carrey hailing a cab with a llama named Pierre in the pouring rain and snapping Jason Momoa with a guitar on the edge of Top of the Rock.

Each photo may air for only a few seconds, but a lot of work goes into Mary Ellen Matthews' photos, the photographer of each host and musical guest for over two decades

Live” has been top of mind recently following the iconic show’s 50th anniversary last month, and among the show’s many unique details is the celebrity portraits that welcome viewers back from commercial breaks.