A recent video from The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) profiles the prolific street photographer Jamel Shabazz with a visit to his home studio and old neighborhood. In it, Shabazz discusses his influences, philosophy and process, as well as how he began his career in photography.
Shabazz is best known for his images of people on New York City’s streets and subway, capturing life in the city for the past 40 years. He began his photographic journey in 1980 after serving in the Army in Germany. Once back in New York, he used a 35mm Canon AE-1 to capture hip-hop culture in the 80s and 90s. His work includes both posed and candid photographs and clips from his studio reveal the vastness of his archive.
A key point in the video is the importance of connection for Shabazz. He explains how he would always carry a photo album with him to show potential subjects so they could see his intentions. He also gave everyone he photographed his business card so that they could call him if they wanted the photograph. “It’s not about me,” explains Shabazz. “I’m just a vessel using my position to freeze time and then thaw the moments out later on so people can see them and heal, rejuvenate, or just celebrate.”
This connection is particularly evident when Shabazz reunites with two men who are the subjects of one of his most iconic images, “The Righteous Brothers.” He met them on the day he photographed them, and they have remained friends over the years. The three talk about what was going on at the time and how powerful the photograph is for them.
It’s a short video, but it serves as an excellent reminder of the importance and power of portraiture and photography as a tool for storytelling.
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This article comes from DP Review and can be read on the original site.
