Robert and Mary Frank at San Gennaro Festival, New York City c. 1950 - 1989

Louis Faurer captured this black and white photograph of Robert and Mary Frank at the San Gennaro Festival in New York City. Photography is a fascinating medium. The alchemical processes of developing film—the darkroom magic that brings forth an image—often go unnoticed. Here, Faurer's choices in printing become particularly relevant. The high contrast transforms everyday materials into something surreal. The stark difference between light and shadow emphasizes the gritty reality of urban life, a theme common in Faurer's work. Look closely, and you'll see the reflections, blurring the line between subject and environment. This technique isn't just about aesthetics; it reflects the fragmented nature of experience, especially in a bustling city. Street photography, like other forms of craft, requires a keen eye, patience, and an understanding of materials—in this case, light and shadow. By considering the photographer’s approach, we can appreciate how the artist elevates the mundane to the profound.