Untitled (four men and one woman in studio for formal portrait) c. 1940

Curator: Here we have an intriguing, undated photograph by John Deusing, simply titled "Untitled (four men and one woman in studio for formal portrait)." Immediately, I get a sense of old Hollywood glamour, even though it’s just a black and white negative. Editor: The high contrast really emphasizes the materiality of the photographic process. The way the light spills across the negative shows the careful development and the kind of chemicals used in the darkroom. Curator: I agree, there's a real tactile quality to it. But to me, it's more about the human story, like a family posing for a momentous occasion. The architectural backdrop feels both grand and artificial, doesn't it? Editor: Absolutely. These staged backdrops were mass-produced, affordable ways to suggest wealth and status, which adds an interesting dimension to the family dynamic. Curator: It's a fascinating glimpse into a past era, both intimate and manufactured. Editor: Yes, a record of aspirations, captured in silver halide.