Puerto Rican Couple with Nine Children (Lower West Side series) 1973

This photograph, part of Milton Rogovin’s Lower West Side series, is a gelatin silver print, a process that was well-established by the time he made this image. This process involves coating paper with a layer of gelatin containing light-sensitive silver halides. Rogovin's choice of black and white and this particular printing method are significant. It lends a timeless quality to the image, emphasizing the dignity and resilience of the Puerto Rican family. It also draws attention to the textures and details within the photograph. In the making of the gelatin silver print, the subtle gradations of tone become essential. It is through these shades of grey that we understand the family’s clothing, the texture of their skin, and the environment in which they live. The stark contrast and clarity inherent to the process capture the details of the neighborhood. Ultimately, Rogovin’s choice of materials and process speaks to a commitment to representing his subjects with respect and nuance. This photograph encourages viewers to consider the social context, and the labor involved not only in making a photograph, but in building a life.