Text and Photographs by Stephen Harmon
During the vanished days of the 1970s and 80s, I walked the streets of the Upper West Side with my camera trying to capture and preserve on film the look and feel, the very essence of that special time and place and its people. I took hundreds, maybe thousands, of candid photos of people in their environments, but I would also approach individuals and families, introduce myself and talk with them, and ask permission to photograph them. They all had a palpable sense of confidence, dignity, and, often, humor. Many were pleased to talk with me and pose for a photo. I call them “The Posers.” Here is a random group I hope you will enjoy.
Thank you for this wonderful gift.
Thank you!
Sublime. Some of these faces don’t even exist anymore, if you catch my drift.
Thank you!
So great! Thank you!
Those beautiful faces! The humanity of it all! Thank you, I love them.
Very kind. Thank you.
Love these. One thing I’m glad that’s gone is the Off Track Betting parlor that was on 72nd bet Broadway and WEA. It’s in the background of the photo of the elegant woman wearing a hat, sun glasses and lace blouse. It reminded me of the day my mother was having a Kentucky Derby party at her house in FL and called to ask me to go to the OTB parlor to place everyone’s bets. It was my first time there. I nearly passed out from the cigar and cigarette smoke plus the smell of alcohol. I was the only young woman there and was not amused by the comments and attention I drew. I called my mother when I got home and reported that I had secured her bets but she would have to fly up to cash any winning tickets in as I was never going back to the OTB again.
Great story! Thanks.
very male heavy. lots of white men, but only one young white female…..
Absolutely marvelous! Thank you, Stephen, for capturing these wonderful faces & places. Thank you for taking us back through to New York as it once was & New Yorkers as we once were.
Thank you so much.
The thing is: they really, really look like New Yorkers! I love these, and your other photos, thanks so much!
Wow! Thanks
You have such a talent for capturing personality and character! I recognize the woman with the little white dog.
Very kind words. Thanks
Thank You!
Thank you you for these fabulous photos. They never disappoint. I keep wishing I could scroll down the page many more times so I can see more pictures.
I appreciate that. Thanks.
#6 Aubrey Plaza vibe 😎
I so look forward to your photographs which display empathy and grace Thank you, thank you.