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The Royal Family and Photography: A Window into History and Connection

by Zuzana
written by Zuzana

The Royal Family and Photography: A Window into History and Connection

Photography’s Role in Shaping the Public Image of British Royalty

For nearly two centuries, photographers have captured intimate moments of British royalty, providing the public with a glimpse into the lives of the country’s monarchs. The exhibition “Life Through a Royal Lens” at Kensington Palace explores the multifaceted relationship between the royal family and photography from the 19th century to the present day.

Photography as a Democratic Tool

Members of the royal family, acting as constitutional monarchs, have historically relied on photography to connect with British citizens. Unlike their counterparts in absolute monarchies, they derive their power from their image rather than political authority. Photography democratized the royal image, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Amateur and Professional Photographers

“Life Through a Royal Lens” showcases the work of both amateur and professional photographers. Alongside renowned photographers like Cecil Beaton and Annie Leibovitz, the exhibition features submissions from members of the public, reflecting the collective perspective on the royal family.

The Personal Touch

The exhibition also includes personal photographs taken by members of the royal family themselves. Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, who studied photography in university, selected images of her children for the exhibition, showcasing her passion for capturing family moments.

Princess Diana: A Different Perspective

Among the highlights of the exhibition is a never-before-seen portrait of Princess Diana taken by David Bailey in 1988. Unlike her usual warm and engaging gaze, Diana appears more reserved in this image, demonstrating the range of her emotional expression.

The Impact of Social Media

In the digital age, social media has transformed the way the royal family uses photography. With platforms like Instagram and Twitter, they can share candid moments with their followers, fostering a more personal connection.

The Future of Royal Photography

As technology continues to evolve, the role of photography in the public perception of the royal family will likely change. However, its ability to connect the monarchy with its subjects remains essential.

The Role of Photography in Times of Crisis

During times of national grief or celebration, photography plays a crucial role in capturing the emotions and collective experiences of the royal family and the public. It provides a visual record of both the challenges and triumphs faced by the monarchy.

The Enduring Power of Photography

Photography has become an integral part of the British royal family’s legacy. It has shaped their public image, democratized their presence, and captured intimate moments that resonate with the public. “Life Through a Royal Lens” is a testament to the enduring power of photography in connecting the monarchy with its subjects.

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Photography

Unveiling the Power of Ambiguity: Photography’s Enigmatic Allure

by Kim
written by Kim

The Art of Ambiguity: Photography’s Power to Suggest

In the realm of photography, what is subtly suggested or even concealed can be just as impactful as what is clearly displayed. Skilled photographers understand the power of mystery to create compelling images that stand out from the overabundance of explicit content on social media.

The Power of Suggestion

Mystery and ambiguity allow viewers to engage with the image on a deeper level. They encourage viewers to use their imaginations, evoke emotions, and ask poignant questions. The interpretation of the art is left up to the beholder, fostering a personal connection and a lasting impact.

The Importance of Ambiguity in Photography

Ambiguity in photography can take many forms, such as:

  • Obscured faces or figures
  • Contrasting light and shadow
  • Cropping or framing that cuts off key elements
  • Juxtaposing unexpected elements

These techniques create a sense of intrigue and uncertainty that draws viewers in and invites them to explore the image more closely.

Mystery in the Smithsonian Photo Contest

The annual Smithsonian Photo Contest showcases the power of ambiguity in photography. This year’s winning images exemplify how mystery can enhance the viewer’s experience:

  • “Wild Mountain Hares Fighting”: Arnfinn Johansen’s image captures a violent confrontation between hares, but the darkness and lack of clear details leave viewers wondering about the outcome.
  • “First to Vote”: Rory Doyle’s photograph of a lone woman waiting to vote evokes a sense of determination and resilience, but the obscured background raises questions about the context and significance of the moment.
  • “The Big Top Tent at Fringe by the Sea”: Andrew Smith’s aerial drone shot of a colorful tent from above creates a mesmerizing pattern, but the lack of visible context leaves viewers speculating about what lies within.
  • “Lollipop”: Jonny Dub’s image of ski-mask-covered women eating lollipops in Tokyo sparks curiosity about their identities and the story behind their unusual appearance.
  • “Tower of Babel”: Tracy Whiteside’s portrait of a woman with an elaborate hairdo and rainbow neck suggests a sense of whimsy and drama, but the lack of facial expression adds an air of mystery.

Nature’s Ambiguity

Nature photography often thrives on ambiguity. The unpredictability of wildlife and the ever-changing conditions can create images that are both beautiful and enigmatic:

  • “Chasing Rhinos”: Prabir Kumar Das’s photograph of charging rhinoceroses captures the power and danger of these magnificent animals, but the blurred motion and obscured details add an element of suspense.
  • “Dancing Silhouettes”: Annemarie Jung’s image of dancers performing in Nepal evokes a sense of movement and rhythm, but the lack of clear faces and the shadowy background create a dreamlike atmosphere.

Travel and Mystery

Travel photography can also benefit from ambiguity. Unexpected encounters and unfamiliar surroundings can lead to images that are both evocative and intriguing:

  • “Ice and Fire”: Yuepeng Bao’s photograph of a colorful crater in China is visually stunning, but the remote location and lack of human presence create a sense of wonder and remoteness.

Preserving Ambiguity

As we embrace the power of ambiguity in photography, it is crucial to respect and preserve the natural landscapes and cultures that inspire these images. We must ensure that our pursuit of compelling visuals does not compromise the integrity of the subjects or the environments we photograph.

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Photography

Kyrgyzstan’s Cities of the Dead: Exploring a Unique Cultural Legacy in Ancestral Cemeteries

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

Kyrgyzstan’s Otherworldly Cities of the Dead: A Photographer’s Journey

Photographer Margaret Morton embarked on a remarkable journey to document Kyrgyzstan’s ancestral cemeteries, known as the “Cities of the Dead.” These enigmatic burial grounds, scattered across the country’s remote and mountainous terrain, have captivated Morton with their striking grandeur and unique blend of cultural influences.

Ancestral Legacies in the Kyrgyz Landscape

Kyrgyzstan’s ancestral cemeteries are a testament to the country’s rich nomadic heritage. The Kyrgyz people, traditionally nomadic pastoralists, have a deep connection to their land and a profound respect for their ancestors. This reverence is reflected in the elaborate burial structures found in the Cities of the Dead.

The cemeteries, often perched on hilltops or nestled in valleys, resemble miniature cities with intricate mausoleums, yurt-shaped structures, and towering monuments. They are adorned with symbols and motifs that speak to the Kyrgyz people’s nomadic lifestyle, their Islamic faith, and the influence of the Soviet era.

Cultural Crossroads in Cemetery Architecture

The architecture of Kyrgyzstan’s ancestral cemeteries is a fascinating blend of cultural influences. Islamic symbols, such as the star and crescent, adorn many structures alongside Soviet-era imagery, including hammers and sickles. This juxtaposition reflects the country’s complex history and the coexistence of different cultural traditions.

The Kyrgyz yurt, a portable, circular hut, is a prominent feature in many cemeteries. Metal yurts, introduced during the Soviet era, now stand alongside traditional clay and wood structures. These yurts serve as symbolic homes for the deceased, representing the nomadic lifestyle and the Kyrgyz people’s connection to their ancestors.

Environmental Harmony and the Cycle of Life

Kyrgyzstan’s ancestral cemeteries are not only architectural wonders but also an integral part of the country’s natural environment. The structures are built from local materials and designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. They rise out of the desolate terrain, echoing the forms of the mountains and hills that surround them.

Over time, the cemeteries themselves become part of the landscape. Monuments crumble and return to the earth, symbolizing the cycle of life and death. The Kyrgyz people do not actively preserve the cemeteries, believing that it is fitting for them to fade back into nature.

Margaret Morton’s Photographic Journey

Margaret Morton’s photographs capture the beauty and cultural significance of Kyrgyzstan’s Cities of the Dead. Her black-and-white images emphasize the architectural details and the interplay between the structures and the landscape. Morton’s work has brought international attention to these unique burial grounds, highlighting their artistic and historical value.

Preserving a Cultural Legacy

While the Kyrgyz people do not actively preserve the ancestral cemeteries, there are efforts underway to document and safeguard their legacy. Scholars and cultural organizations are working to record the cemeteries’ architectural and cultural significance.

The Kyrgyz government has also recognized the importance of preserving these unique sites and has designated some of them as protected areas. By documenting and preserving the Cities of the Dead, we can ensure that future generations can appreciate and learn from this extraordinary cultural heritage.

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Photography

The Baseball Photographer Trading Cards: A Unique Blend of Art, Humor, and Nostalgia

by Kim
written by Kim

The Baseball Photographer Trading Cards: A Unique Art Project

Background

In the 1970s, photographer Mike Mandel had a whimsical idea: to create a set of baseball trading cards featuring famous photographers. Inspired by the popularity of baseball cards among young collectors, Mandel aimed to playfully comment on the growing recognition of photography as a legitimate art form.

Collaboration and Execution

With the support of his advisor Gary Metz and Robert Heinecken, who established UCLA’s photography program, Mandel embarked on a cross-country road trip to photograph 134 photographers. He approached renowned artists such as Ansel Adams and Imogen Cunningham, who eagerly participated in the project.

Satirical Commentary

The Baseball Photographer Trading Cards were not just a collection of portraits; they were a satirical commentary on the commercialization of photography. By placing the photographers in baseball uniforms and poses, Mandel poked fun at the idea that artists were becoming celebrities. He included humorous details on the backs of the cards, such as “Favorite Photography Paper” and quotes from the photographers themselves.

Influence of the Counterculture

The creation of the Baseball Photographer Trading Cards coincided with the social and cultural upheaval of the 1960s and 1970s. Photography played a crucial role in documenting the injustices and protests of the era. Mandel’s project reflected the changing attitudes towards photography, which was no longer seen as merely a technical skill but as a powerful tool for social commentary.

Recognition and Legacy

The Baseball Photographer Trading Cards quickly gained recognition and popularity. They were featured in major publications such as Sports Illustrated and Newsweek, and museums held card trading parties to complete sets. The original run of 402,000 cards has become a rare collector’s item, with complete sets selling for thousands of dollars.

Reissue and Preservation

In recent years, Mandel has reissued the Baseball Photographer Trading Cards as part of a boxed set called “Good 70s.” This set includes reproductions of the original cards, as well as never-before-published work from Mandel’s archives. The reissued cards feature enhanced image quality and come with a pack of fake gum, preserving the nostalgic element of the original project.

Significance and Impact

The Baseball Photographer Trading Cards remain a significant contribution to the history of photography. They not only capture the personalities and styles of renowned photographers but also reflect the changing cultural landscape of the 1970s. By playfully blurring the lines between art and commerce, Mandel challenged traditional notions of artistic legitimacy and opened up new possibilities for the medium of photography.

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Photography

Photojournalism: The Power of Images in Storytelling | Life Magazine’s Legacy

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

Photojournalism: The Power of Images in Storytelling

The Birth of Photojournalism

Life magazine, founded in 1936, played a pivotal role in the development of photojournalism as we know it today. Its photographers pioneered techniques that revolutionized the way news was captured and presented to the public.

The Photographer’s Perspective

Unlike writers, who can gather information through interviews, photojournalists must interact directly with their subjects. They must capture moments of genuine expression and action, which requires a unique blend of technical skill and an ability to draw out the human story.

Witnessing History

Life’s photographers witnessed some of the most significant events of the 20th century, from World War II to the civil rights movement. Their images provided a powerful visual record of these momentous times, giving readers a firsthand glimpse of the human experience amidst chaos and conflict.

The Impact of Technology

Advancements in photographic technology, such as high-speed film and compact cameras, allowed Life photographers to capture human activity in natural settings. This candid photography style brought readers into the heart of everyday life, revealing the complexities and nuances of human behavior.

The Symbiotic Relationship with Radio

Photojournalism and radio formed a symbiotic relationship, with Life filling the void of visual storytelling that radio could not provide. However, the advent of television posed a challenge, prompting Life to embrace color photography in the 1960s.

Pigeonholing Photographers

As Life’s photography staff grew, photographers often became associated with specific specialties. Dmitri Kessel, for example, became known for his evocative images of religious architecture, while Alfred Eisenstaedt’s iconic photograph of a sailor kissing a nurse in Times Square cemented his reputation as a master of human expression.

The Photographer as Artist

While many photojournalists view themselves primarily as journalists, their work often transcends the boundaries of documentation and enters the realm of art. The best photojournalism captures not only the facts of an event but also the emotions and underlying truths that words alone cannot convey.

Life’s Legacy

Life magazine’s photographers produced some of the most iconic and unforgettable images in history. Their work continues to inspire photographers and storytellers today, showcasing the transformative power of images to inform, engage, and connect us with the world around us.

Examples of Life’s Photojournalism

  • Margaret Bourke-White’s harrowing photographs of the German bombardment of Moscow
  • David Douglas Duncan’s poignant image of a corporal striding over a fallen comrade in Korea
  • Larry Burrows’ helicopter crewman reacting to a young lieutenant’s death in Vietnam
  • Eisenstaedt’s candid portrait of Joseph Goebbels, revealing the arrogance of Nazi power
  • Leonard McCombe’s intimate glimpse into the life of a young woman starting her career
  • W. Eugene Smith’s documentation of the daily rounds of a country doctor in rural Colorado

These are just a few examples of the countless stories and moments captured by Life’s photographers. Their legacy is a testament to the enduring power of photojournalism to both record and interpret history, giving us a deeper understanding of ourselves and our shared human experience.

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Photography

Unveiling America’s Past: 440 Rare Snapshots from the Library of Congress

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

Library of Congress Unveils Hidden Treasures: 440 Rare Snapshots from America’s Past

Photographic Archives Unearthed

The Library of Congress is proud to present “Not an Ostrich: And Other Images from America’s Library,” an exhibition showcasing 440 extraordinary photographs from its vast archives. These images, spanning three centuries, offer a captivating glimpse into the nation’s cultural heritage.

Curating a Visual Tapestry

Over a year of meticulous research and curation went into selecting these photographs. Curator emerita Anne Wilkes Tucker sought to present a diverse and inclusive representation of America, encompassing different regions, religions, and demographics. The result is a collection that elevates obscure images to iconic status, alongside well-known masterpieces.

From Daguerreotypes to Digital

The exhibition traces the evolution of photography from its earliest days to the present. Visitors can marvel at Robert Cornelius’s “world’s first selfie” from 1839, the earliest known portrait of Harriet Tubman, and a 2006 snapshot of a couple dining at Wendy’s on Halloween.

Beyond the Obvious

The title of the exhibition, “Not an Ostrich,” encourages viewers to question their assumptions and delve deeper into the stories behind the images. As photographic theorist Susan Sontag observed, photographs are both objective records and personal interpretations of reality.

A Window into History

These photographs serve as powerful access points into American history. They capture moments of glamour, worship, invention, bravery, humor, cruelty, and love. They offer insights into the lives of ordinary people and extraordinary events that have shaped the nation.

Digitized for Accessibility

To enhance public access, the Library of Congress has digitized high-resolution versions of the original images. Hundreds of previously unseen snapshots are also available online, many of which are free for public use.

Annenberg-LOC Collaboration

“Not an Ostrich” is a collaboration between the Library of Congress and the Annenberg Space for Photography in Los Angeles. The exhibition is on view through September 9, 2018, with free admission.

Exploring America’s Past

Through this exhibition, the Library of Congress aims to make the public aware of the incredible resources available in its photographic archives. These images provide a unique and invaluable lens through which to understand and appreciate America’s rich cultural heritage.

Additional Highlights:

  • “Balanced Rock, Garden of the Gods, Colorado” (1908) captures the grandeur of the American West.
  • “Allied soldiers, one with a bandaged head, sitting on the ground during World War I” (1914-18) depicts the horrors of war.
  • “Nice Feather Duster” (1891) showcases a peculiar and memorable peddler.
  • “Brünnhilde” (1936) reveals the playful side of photography with a cat in a Viking helmet.
  • “Portrait of Harriet Tubman” (1868-69) honors the legacy of a courageous abolitionist.
  • “Bodybuilder Gene Jantzen with wife Pat, and eleven-month-old son Kent” (1947) showcases the strength and determination of an American family.
  • “Robert Cornelius, self-portrait” (1839) marks a groundbreaking moment in the history of photography.
  • “Migrant Mother” (Dorothea Lange, 1936) is an iconic image of the Great Depression.
  • “Not an Ostrich” (1930) features actress Isla Bevin holding a prize-winning goose, prompting viewers to question their perceptions.
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Photography

Blind Photographers: Capturing the World Through Light and Imagination

by Zuzana
written by Zuzana

Blind Photographers: Exploring the World Through Light and Imagination

Sonia Soberats: A Journey of Transformation

In the face of adversity, Sonia Soberats found solace and expression in photography. After losing her eyesight to glaucoma, she embarked on a remarkable journey, using light and imagination to create stunning images.

Soberats’ photographs are not simply representations of the world as she sees it; they are vibrant expressions of her memories, emotions, and experiences. She captures moments from her walks through the park or encounters on the street, recreating them in her studio with the help of assistants and models.

The Creative Process: Painting with Light

Soberats’ creative process is a testament to her resilience and ingenuity. With her assistants arranging the scene, she uses various light sources, including flashlights and Christmas lights, to illuminate details within the frame. The shutter remains open for extended periods, allowing her to move about the frame like a dancer, painting the image with light.

“You go into the picture and you forget what is around you and that you’re blind,” Soberats says. “Our mind is vast. You can go over and over everything and obtain all the information you need.”

Seeing With Photography Collective: A Community of Visionaries

Soberats is not alone in her pursuit of artistic expression through photography. She is a member of the Seeing With Photography Collective, a group that includes both sighted and visually impaired photographers. This community provides support, inspiration, and a platform for blind photographers to share their work.

Sight Unseen: Challenging Perceptions

In 2009, the California Museum of Photography showcased the talents of blind photographers in an exhibition titled “Sight Unseen.” Curator Douglas McCulloh, himself a photographer, explains the significance of this work:

“The whole trajectory of modern art for the last 100 years has been toward the concept of mental construction, and blind photography comes from that place,” McCulloh says. “They’re creating that image in their head first — really elaborate, fully realized visions — and then bringing some version of that vision into the world for the rest of us to see.”

The Role of Sound and Smell in Blind Photography

For blind photographers, the world is experienced through a rich tapestry of sounds, smells, and textures. Soberats relies on these sensory cues to recreate her memories and impressions in her photographs.

“I remember the sound of the leaves rustling in the wind, the smell of the flowers in the park,” she says. “These are the things that I try to capture in my photographs.”

The Impact of Blindness on Artistic Expression

Blindness presents unique challenges for photographers, but it also offers opportunities for creative exploration. By relying on their imagination and sensory perception, blind photographers create images that challenge our assumptions about vision and the nature of art.

Their work expands the boundaries of photography, demonstrating that artistic expression is not limited by physical constraints. Instead, it is a testament to the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity and find beauty in unexpected places.

Examples of Blind Photography

Soberats’ photographs are a testament to the beauty and power of blind photography. Her images capture the essence of her experiences, inviting viewers to see the world from a different perspective.

Other notable blind photographers include:

  • Michael Nye: Known for his abstract and experimental photographs that explore the relationship between light and darkness.
  • Pete Eckert: Uses a technique called “haptic photography” to create images by feeling the textures and contours of objects.
  • Evgen Bavcar: A Slovenian photographer who uses photography to document his experiences as a blind person.

These photographers, and many others, are pushing the boundaries of photography and challenging our understanding of what it means to see. Their work is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of art to transcend physical limitations.

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Photography

Edward S. Curtis and the Enduring Impact of Native American Photography

by Kim
written by Kim

Edward S. Curtis and the Legacy of Native American Photography

Edward S. Curtis: Documenting Native American Life

Edward S. Curtis was a renowned photographer who dedicated his life to documenting the lives of Native Americans. Between 1907 and 1930, he traveled extensively throughout North America, capturing over 40,000 images of people from more than 80 different tribes. Curtis’s work included not only photographs but also wax cylinder recordings of indigenous songs and written accounts of stories, histories, and biographies.

Curtis’s most ambitious project was a 20-volume series titled “The North American Indian.” This monumental work was hailed as “the most ambitious enterprise in publishing since the production of the King James Bible.” Today, over 1,000 of Curtis’s images are available online through the Library of Congress.

Curtis’s Legacy and Its Impact on Native American Stereotypes

While Curtis’s work was lauded for its artistic value and its contribution to the documentation of Native American culture, it also perpetuated certain stereotypes. Curtis often depicted Native Americans as stoic and vanishing, reinforcing the myth that they were a dying race. His images influenced the way that many Americans viewed Native people for decades to come.

Contemporary Native American Artists Challenge Curtis’s Legacy

In recent years, contemporary Native American artists have challenged Curtis’s legacy and sought to present a more nuanced and authentic portrayal of their people. These artists, such as Pamela J. Peters, Zig Jackson, Wendy Red Star, and Will Wilson, use photography, multimedia, and other art forms to explore issues of identity, culture, and representation.

Pamela J. Peters: Reclaiming Native History

Pamela J. Peters, a Navajo photographer and filmmaker, argues that Curtis’s stereotypes persist today. She uses her work to challenge these stereotypes and to reclaim her own history. In her self-portrait series “Four Seasons,” Peters wears traditional garb, but upon closer inspection, the viewer can see that the background is held up by tacks, the animals are inflatable toys, and cellophane is used to evoke water. Through her art, Peters makes a powerful statement about reclaiming her own history.

Zig Jackson: Dismantling Stereotypes

Zig Jackson, also known as Rising Buffalo, is a Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara photographer whose work is known for dismantling stereotypes. His series “Indian Photographing Tourist Photographing Indian” and “Indian Photographing Tourist Photographing Sacred Sites” question the role of photography itself and the commodification of Native American culture.

Wendy Red Star: Exploring Identity and Culture

Wendy Red Star is a Portland-based multimedia artist whose work is informed by her cultural heritage and upbringing on the Apsáalooke reservation. Her photographs mix stereotypical and authentic imagery to explore issues of identity and culture. In her series “Medicine Crow,” Red Star alters familiar images of the famous Native American leader with notes and extra information, sometimes drawing a connection to herself.

Will Wilson: Supplanting Curtis’s Portraits

Will Wilson, a Diné photographer, seeks to supplant the portraits Curtis took with his own documentary mission. His work features “tintypes” that help mess with time. He also collaborates with his sitters to produce his portraits, rather than directing them to come off any certain way.

The Role of Art in Combating Stereotypes and Promoting Understanding

The work of these contemporary Native American artists is essential for combating stereotypes and promoting a more nuanced understanding of Native American culture. Through their art, they challenge the dominant narratives about Native people and offer new perspectives on their history, identity, and experiences.

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The Beatles, Cassius Clay, and the Iconic Photo Shoot: A Photographic Legacy

by Kim
written by Kim

The Beatles, Cassius Clay, and the Iconic Photo Shoot

The Beatles and Sonny Liston: A Missed Opportunity

In 1964, the Beatles were on the cusp of superstardom, while heavyweight boxing champion Sonny Liston reigned supreme. Photographer Harry Benson had arranged a photo shoot with Liston for the Fab Four. However, Liston surprisingly declined, leaving Benson scrambling for a replacement.

Cassius Clay Steps In

Undeterred, Benson decided that Cassius Clay, a rising star in boxing, would make a suitable substitute. Without informing the Beatles, he arranged a photo shoot at Clay’s training camp. The Beatles, initially furious at being misled, were eventually persuaded to participate.

The Iconic Photo

In the gym’s dingy setting, Benson captured an unforgettable moment. Clay, with his towering physique and infectious charisma, cavorted with the Beatles. The result was an iconic image that has become synonymous with the era.

Benson’s Photographic Prowess

Benson’s skill as a photojournalist is evident in his ability to capture the essence of his subjects. His iconic Beatles photo is just one example of his remarkable career.

A History of Photojournalism

Benson has witnessed and documented some of the most significant events of the past half-century. His lens has captured conflicts, political upheavals, and cultural milestones. From the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy to the fall of the Berlin Wall, Benson’s photographs have chronicled the human experience.

The Importance of Photography

Benson believes that photography has a profound impact on society. It can inform, inspire, and connect people across cultures and time. His iconic images have become part of our collective memory, shaping our understanding of history and pop culture.

Ethical Considerations

Despite his close relationships with many of his subjects, Benson maintains a professional distance. He believes that journalists must remain objective and avoid becoming part of the story.

The Creative Process

Benson’s success as a photojournalist stems from his innate creativity and ability to seize opportunities. He is constantly seeking new perspectives and is willing to take risks to capture the perfect shot.

The Beatles’ Legacy

The Beatles’ impact on popular culture cannot be overstated. Their music and image have influenced generations. Benson’s iconic photo of the band with Cassius Clay is a testament to their enduring legacy.

Benson’s Ongoing Legacy

At 74, Benson continues to document the world around him with the same passion and skill that have characterized his career. His body of work is a testament to the power of photography to capture the human spirit and the complexities of our time.

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James Van Der Zee: Preserving the Legacy of a Harlem Renaissance Photographer at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

by Kim
written by Kim

James Van Der Zee: Preserving the Legacy of a Harlem Renaissance Photographer

The Met Acquires Archive of Photographer James Van Der Zee’s Work

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) has recently acquired an extensive archive of work by renowned Harlem Renaissance photographer James Van Der Zee. This acquisition, made in collaboration with the Studio Museum of Harlem, includes approximately 20,000 prints and 30,000 negatives, providing an invaluable record of 20th-century Black life in Harlem.

James Van Der Zee: A Pioneer in Harlem Photography

James Van Der Zee was born in Lenox, Massachusetts in 1886. He moved to Harlem in the early 1900s, where he opened his Guarantee Photo Studio in the mid-1910s. Van Der Zee’s studio became a hub for the Harlem community, and he quickly established himself as one of the most successful photographers in the neighborhood.

Over the following decades, Van Der Zee captured iconic images of Harlem’s vibrant culture and its prominent figures. His subjects included renowned artists, activists, and entertainers such as Marcus Garvey, Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, Muhammad Ali, Mamie Smith, and Countee Cullen.

Documenting Harlem’s History

Beyond his studio portraits, Van Der Zee also documented Harlem’s history through his street photography. He captured images of everyday life, from parades and street scenes to community events and civil rights protests. Notably, he took some of the only photographs of the victory parade for the 369th Infantry Regiment, known as the “Harlem Hellfighters,” after their return from World War I.

Artistic Innovation

Van Der Zee was known for his innovative techniques and artistic vision. He experimented with photo montages, superimposing images to create unique compositions. He also hand-tinted some of his photographs, adding a vibrant touch to his portraits.

“He had an extraordinary knowledge of lighting and printing and manipulation and coloring,” said Jeff L. Rosenheim, the curator in charge of the Met’s department of photography.

Preservation and Legacy

The acquisition of Van Der Zee’s archive by the Met ensures the preservation of his invaluable work. The museum will conserve and scan the negatives, and it has acquired the copyright to reproduce the images. Van Der Zee’s studio equipment and ephemera will also be included in the archive.

The Studio Museum of Harlem, which already owns a portion of Van Der Zee’s archive, will continue to retain ownership of those materials. The museum’s Expanding the Walls photography program for high school students uses Van Der Zee’s images as inspiration for their own work.

“His very particular vision has the power to be inspirational to generations of artists who have seen the possibility of what it means to chronicle in time and place a people and a culture,” said Thelma Golden, director and chief curator at the Studio Museum. “His work inspires them to look at their world with precision and record it in the present.”

A selection of photographs from the Van Der Zee archive is currently on view at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., through May 30, 2022.

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