A Life in the Shadows: The Sports Photography of Hy Peskin

Hy Peskin's career in photography reflects the history of American photojournalism. Born in 1915, his work as a sports photographer began at Ebbetts Field. There he quickly established himself as an innovator in the field, widely known for his action shots taken from improbable and acrobatic angles, as well as dynamic studies and indelible portraits of such great athletes as Sugar Ray Robinson, Bob Cousy, Ben Hogan, Hank Aaron, and Raymond Berry.From 1954 to 1965 Peskin was the preeminent sports photographer of his day, inspiring a generation who followed him, including Walter looss and Neil Leifer. The accompanying essay by John Thorn is a graceful account of Peskin's life and career, culled from extensive interview material.