Miller-Sabatine Graduation Party, Martins Creek, Pennsylvania 1977

Larry Fink made this gelatin silver print of a graduation party scene in Martins Creek, Pennsylvania. It’s like the whole room is buzzing with the energy of a social gathering. I can imagine Fink moving around with his camera, trying to capture the essence of the party—the awkwardness, the joy, the mundane. The way he’s framed the shot, with people looking every which way, makes me feel like I’m right there in the middle of the action. It’s like a snapshot of real life, with all its imperfections and quirks on full display. The light and shadow create such drama, making ordinary moments feel really intense. It's interesting to me that Fink chose to focus on these kinds of scenes. He invites us to see the beauty and complexity in the everyday. I feel as though I can smell the celebratory food here, can you?