James Van Der Zee was a renowned African American photographer known for his iconic images that captured the vibrancy of Harlem during the early 20th century. Born in 1886 in Lenox, Massachusetts, Van Der Zee moved to New York City in 1906 and opened his own photography studio in Harlem in 1916. His studio quickly became a popular destination for the black community in Harlem, and he gained a reputation for his skill in portrait photography.

Van Der Zee's photographs beautifully captured the spirit and elegance of Harlem's residents, including prominent figures such as Marcus Garvey, Billie Holiday, and Duke Ellington. His studio became a hub for the Harlem Renaissance, and his work was instrumental in shaping the visual representation of this cultural movement.

Van Der Zee's photographs are celebrated for their artistic and historical significance, providing a glimpse into the vibrant social and cultural life of African Americans in Harlem during the early 20th century. His work has since been recognized and celebrated for its contribution to Black history and the preservation of African American culture.