Photography was invented in 1839 and, shortly thereafter, a strong interest devoted to capturing a photographic image of the person as an individual was born. Earlier, only the wealthy recorded a family member's likeness by commissioning a professional portrait painter. On occasion, a skilled artist in the family or an itinerant artist painted portraits for families of modest means. Photography made images of loved ones more widely available for middle-class families.

This portrait of Henry James Black is a striking photograph as the photographer carefully captured the personality of this young man. The intense gaze of Black complements his black elaborate tie, brocade vest, and sombre overcoat. His long and rather unruly hair adds a Gothic air. The photographer wisely kept the background in the studio neutral to intensify the composition and eliminate any distraction or visual competition with the sitter.