About Joel Meyerowitz

Joel Meyerowitz is an influential American photographer, widely recognized for his pioneering work in color photography. Born in 1938 in the Bronx, New York, Meyerowitz initially worked in advertising before a chance encounter with street photographer Robert Frank inspired him to take up the camera himself. He quickly became one of the foremost advocates for color photography at a time when black and white was still considered the serious medium for artistic expression.

Meyerowitz’s early work captured the streets of New York City in the 1960s and 1970s, documenting its energy, characters, and fleeting moments of everyday life. His book Cape Light, published in 1978, remains one of the most celebrated works of color photography, showcasing the luminous and atmospheric landscapes of Cape Cod with a painterly sensitivity to light and color. His ability to use large-format cameras to capture depth and subtle tonal shifts helped cement his reputation as a master of the medium.

In addition to street photography and landscapes, Meyerowitz played a crucial role in documenting Ground Zero in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. His book Aftermath: World Trade Center Archive (2006) stands as an important historical record, offering an intimate and poignant visual narrative of the recovery efforts. Other notable works include Wild Flowers (1983), a surprising and poetic study of floral still lifes, and Where I Find Myself (2018), a retrospective that spans his decades-long career.

Meyerowitz’s influence extends beyond his photographs; he has also been a dedicated teacher and advocate for the art of seeing, offering insights into composition, light, and the power of observation. His work continues to inspire contemporary photographers, and his legacy as one of the great innovators of modern photography remains firmly established.