Watch Jamel Shabazz Street Photographer

Jamel Shabazz Street Photographer is a documentary film released in 2013 that takes viewers on a journey through the life and work of Jamel Shabazz, a renowned street photographer who has been capturing images of daily life in urban neighborhoods for over 30 years. Directed by Charlie Ahearn, the film features interviews with Shabazz, as well as with Fab 5 Freddy, Bobbito Garcia, Aaron Goodstone, and other individuals who have been impacted by Shabazz's photography.

The film begins by introducing viewers to Shabazz, who grew up in Brooklyn during the 1960s and 1970s. Shabazz explains how he became interested in photography after his parents gave him a camera at a young age, and how he began taking pictures of his friends and the world around him. As he grew older, Shabazz became interested in hip hop culture and the emerging street art scene in New York City. He began photographing graffiti, breakdancers, and other elements of the vibrant street culture that was becoming increasingly popular.

Over time, Shabazz became known for his ability to capture the spirit of urban life in his photographs. He traveled around the city, taking pictures of people on the streets, in subways, and at block parties. His images became iconic representations of the hip hop generation, and his work has been featured in numerous magazines, books, and galleries around the world.

Throughout the film, interviews with Shabazz and others explore the power of his images and the impact they have had on urban culture. Fab 5 Freddy, a hip hop pioneer who was featured in many of Shabazz's early photographs, reflects on the cultural significance of Shabazz's work. Bobbito Garcia, a hip hop DJ and historian, discusses the role that photography plays in preserving the history of urban culture. Aaron Goodstone, a New York-based gallerist who has exhibited Shabazz's work, explains why he believes Shabazz's photographs continue to resonate with people today.

The film also delves into some of the challenges that Shabazz has faced as a photographer. At times, Shabazz has struggled to make a living from his work, and he has had to balance his artistic pursuits with the demands of family life. However, he has persevered, continuing to document the world around him even as the city and its people have changed.

Overall, Jamel Shabazz Street Photographer is a powerful tribute to one man's ability to capture the essence of a generation through his photographs. Through interviews with Shabazz and others, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the significance of his work, both in terms of documenting the past and shaping the present. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of hip hop culture, the evolution of street photography, or the power of art to shape our understanding of the world around us.

Jamel Shabazz Street Photographer is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.