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AP Alley


AP Alley
Photo Information
Copyright: Thomas Roach (sigint) Silver Note Writer [C: 3 W: 0 N: 34] (352)
Genre: People
Medium: Black & White
Date Taken: 1960-08
Categories: Daily Life
Camera: Nikon F, Nikkor 50mm, Kodak Plus X
Photo Version: Original Version
Theme(s): Sato: À la recherche du temps perdu (past & retro) [view contributor(s)]
Date Submitted: 2005-06-04 10:09
Viewed: 1195
Favorites: 2 [view]
Points: 10
[Note Guidelines] Photographer's Note
A long view of the Alley where so many drank, played and more. This picture is unusual in that blacks, in those days, entered the Alley at great risk to themselves. Racism was still prominent. This fellow was probably headed elsewhere but looked like he could take care of himself regardless.

The Japanese were just as prejudiced towards blacks as many white Americans were at the time. Racism was part of being Japanese. To call someone a "Chosen buta" or Korean pig was a sure way to start a fight. Many of the bar girls were of Korean or part Korean heritage and working here offered them economic advantages they would never see otherwise.
Sutavugu, xvs1100 has marked this note useful
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Discussions
ThreadThread Starter Messages Updated
To jcandeli: Photos I take nowsigint 1 06-04 22:57
To wayne: Black man in photosigint 1 06-04 22:55
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Critiques [Translate]

I love the mood the black and white gives. Also, very good perspective and interesting note.

Hello Thomas,
Another great portrait from 60s Japan..
Photography is perfect..
Congrats!
..Calayan

That is beautiful. Great history and photo. If you took photos this great 40 years ago I wonder what yours look like now! :) Really nice photo! JP

  • Great 
  • wayne Gold Star Critiquer [C: 292 W: 0 N: 0] (0)
  • [2005-06-04 20:46]
  • [+]

Thomas

It definitely is unusual for me to see a black man in Japan, but unless he was in the U.S. army or something. Then again, the '60's I'm sure was universally a different environment and mindset. My first impression was that this was in the alley of some city in the U.S. Very informative note and solid documentary photo.

Hi Thomas,

Brilliant piece of work!

I love the composition and POV. The choice of B&W was the right one and your choice lighting is wonderful.

The expression on the man's face was perfectly captured and the moment chosen very well.

TFS

D

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