Untitled (woman leaning over baby on bed, Houston, Texas) 1929

This photonegative, Untitled (woman leaning over baby on bed, Houston, Texas), was captured by Paul Gittings sometime in the 20th century. The stark black and white image offers a study in contrasts, illuminating themes of motherhood and domesticity. Looking at the woman bent protectively over the baby, I imagine Gittings trying to find the right angle, coaxing his subjects to reveal their vulnerability. The mother's face is serene, her gaze locked onto the infant, which sleeps soundly. I think about Gittings’ process, the darkroom, and the careful development that transforms light into a tangible form. The high contrast exaggerates details, emphasizing the texture of the blanket and the gentle curve of the mother's neck. This negative holds a moment, a quiet, personal exchange, which makes it universal. It's fascinating how one artist’s vision, filtered through a lens and a specific photographic process, continues to resonate across time.