The Exposure Group (African American Photographers Association) was founded in 1978 under the name Positive Image.  On February 20th, the group celebrated Black History Month with a special program honoring its founding members.  This event, "1978 Evolution of Positive Image", was hosted by The Historical Society of Washington DC.  This afternoon program highlighted the original members' contributions to the art of photography, and their positive images captured of the African-American community.

Each photographer presented about ten of their favorite images, spoke about their thoughts behind its creation and the impact each image had on its viewers at that moment in time.  A panel discussion followed, where members of the audience had the opportunity to ask questions of the photographers.  One of the questions was regarding the scariest situation they've found themselves in throughout their photography careers.  Sharon Farmer replied, describing a photo assignment where she climbed a water tower (3 hours roundtrip) to capture the image she needed… not because she was asked, but because that unique angle was the only one that would effectively tell the complete story.  Sharon would later become Director of White House Photography, and assigned to then President Bill Clinton. She was the first African American and woman to hold this position.

Thanks to Exposure Group member Danita Delaney for bringing her vision to reality with this program.  Also, thanks to video producer Don Baker and fellow production staff members for your commitment to this photography organization.

Marvin T. Jones signing his book "Carolina Genesis"

Founding members (left to right): Milton Williams, Roy Lewis, Marvin T. Jones, Gene Young,
Marisa Nixon, Vernard R. Gray, Sharon Farmer, Edgar Thompson

This is why everyone's looking in a different direction. :o)
Photo by Milton Williams

For more information about the Exposure Group, visit www.exposuregroup.org.  More event photos are available on the Exposure Group's Facebook photo gallery.

A week ago, I traveled to Houston TX to support a former choir director from my years at Tuskegee University. He’s now the director of the Texas Southern University Choir. On Sunday, their Black History Month Concert was successfully held at Houston’s Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church. Congratulations to the choir on one of their first big performances of the year! All of your rehearsals and hard work definitely paid off. Also, thanks to the A/V staff for video taping the concert (and for the chicken… lol).

Texas Southern University Choir in concert

Clyde Owen Jackson directing the TSU Choir

Wheeler Ave. Baptist Church, one of three standing room only Sunday services

Pastor Cosby preaching at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church