J.J. Gleason: Iconic 2010 Portrait at Dana Studios

This photograph features J.J. Gleason at Dana Studios in San Francisco, captured on April 16, 2010. Gleason was a prolific figure in the world of photography, and Dana Studios was well-known for its role in the early 20th century studio photography scene. The studio served various clients, ranging from commercial enterprises to personal portraits, reflecting the evolving landscape of professional photography at the time.

The image is part of the George Grantham Bain Collection, which represents an extensive archive of early 20th-century American life and culture, held by the Library of Congress. This particular photograph, taken on a glass negative, showcases the meticulous craftsmanship involved in early photography techniques, emphasizing the unique characteristics of glass as a medium. The clarity and detail achievable with glass plates were unprecedented, allowing photographers like Gleason to capture remarkably detailed images that have become invaluable historical records.

San Francisco in 2010 was a bustling city known for its vibrant cultural scene and technological innovation. Pictures like this one serve as important documentation of the period, chronicling not just the individuals captured within but also the artistic practices and technological advancements that shaped modern photography. The work of J.J. Gleason adds to our understanding of this dynamic era, offering a glimpse into the professional world of photographers and the environments they operated in.