June 26, 2006
This week we have moved the give away to Weds. Why? Its summertime, and you are all out taking photographs on the weekend. I think.
We first saw this book at PhotoLA a couple of years ago and it quickly became one of the gifts we love to give.
In 1925 the Siberian immigrant Anatol Josepho had an idea for a small curtain-enclosed booth where people could take affordable portraits anonymously and automatically. The photobooth was born. Within 20 years there were more than 30,000 in the United States alone, an explosive growth due largely to World War II, as soldiers and loved ones exchanged photos, hoping to cling to memories or moments in a world turned upside down.
There has been a recent resurgence of these booths although now color, imaginative backgrounds, and sticker possibilities have been added .
But the magic of the booth remains.
With no photographer to please, people are at liberty to be whoever they like: brave or sexy, cocksure or wise, without fear of censure or ridicule. Free in the certainty of their solitude, families, couples young and old, best friends, and individual after individual have presented to the camera both real and imagined selves for three-quarters of a century.
Photobooth presents over 700 such photographs from the last 75 years, images at turns spontaneous and uninhibited, often goofy, and occasionally touching. It is a fascinating portrait of everyday people and a testament to the ongoing fascination with both the process and the result.
You all have been in the booth. Now take a look at what went on behind the curtain while you waited for your turn.
As always, an email will be sent to everyone who has signed onto the mailing list ( top of the home page) The first 5 people who reply to the email will be sent a copy of the book. And this week it will be on Wednesday.
Some new , great items are coming up , so don’t miss out. Sign on today!
Cheers!
Damon
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This book is an awesome window into the past. It is a fantastic example of how so much can be captured by an image, since photobooth pictures are taken so quickly.
I have this book! It’s one of my favorites! :) Great giveaway!
Received my copy today and immediately became absorbed by the breadth of personality captured in the moment. As an animator, I find the expressions and emotions in these photos priceless.
Thanks for highlighting it as a giveaway!
Sharon