Gordon Parks was a photographer and pioneer among black filmmakers. During his career which took place throughout the middle of the 20th century, Parks' photography highlighted issues of civil rights and poverty. From 1948 through 1972, Parks worked with LIFE magazine where he created numerous photo essays. During this time he photographed sports, fashion, poverty and racial segregation. which he later transitioned into a career in film.
LIFE magazine was the first major American publication to place an emphasis on photojournalism, and is significant for its photography of World War II.