1926 Portrait of a Young Innovator in News Media

This photograph features S. Mortimer Jr., captured by the Bain News Service on October 27, 1926. The image reflects a time when photography was transitioning into a pivotal tool for journalism and social documentation. Glass negatives, like the one showcasing Mortimer, were widely used during this era due to their clarity and ability to reproduce fine details, making them valuable for photographers and historians alike.

S. Mortimer Jr. was one of many figures of the 1920s who influenced American culture and society. This period, marked by significant economic growth and social change, saw the rise of jazz, flappers, and a newfound sense of freedom. The photo serves as a visual artifact of this dynamic time, providing insight into the individuals who shaped public discourse and the visual landscape of their day. Such images are not just snapshots; they chronicle the evolution of a nation in transition.