Roy DeCarava

Roy DeCarava was an influential African American photographer and artist known for his poignant images capturing the everyday lives and experiences of Black communities, particularly in Harlem. Active from the 1940s to the 2000s, his work emphasized the beauty and dignity of his subjects, often using soft lighting and rich tones to create intimate, emotive portraits. DeCarava was also the first Black photographer to win a Guggenheim Fellowship. His photographs serve as both artistic expressions and historical documents, reflecting the cultural and social dynamics of African American life during his time.