A Casual Affair 1932

"A Casual Affair" (1932), by Harlem Renaissance photographer James Van Der Zee, showcases a dapper gentleman in a double-breasted suit, his relaxed pose and the presence of a hat suggest a moment of respite. The photograph is a testament to Van Der Zee's ability to capture the style and confidence of Black life in the 1930s, often portraying individuals in elegant settings that challenged the prevailing racial stereotypes of the time. The soft lighting and focus on the subject's expression create an intimate and timeless portrait.