Interesting Photograph

Henry Gray, Arizona, 1970 by William Albert Allard

Allard's photograph interests me because he has captured a portrait and the worries of the subject in one image. The subject and the background are deeply connected and complementary. Allard has chosen to photograph the rancher inside a dark room, instead of outside on the ranch, which is how ranchers are usually shown. Henry Gray looks down at the ground in thought and the darkness and small space of the room echo Gray's expression of despair. Symbols of his way of life surround him, the American flag and the cattle head, suggesting that his livelihood may be in danger. The mirror opens up the small space, but does not offer the viewer any sign of hope for the rancher.

Image Source: The Photography Book, Phaidon, 1997