Associated Press photographer Bill Hudson
Not only does this picture tell a deep story during the time of the Civil Rights Movement, but it also exemplifies a successful photograph. From its complex composition, to its balanced contrast, this image shows multiple successes within it. First, we see a strong composition given by the vertical line in the image created by the bodies of the dogs that attempt to keep towards the black man on the left. His vertical body being held by the perpendicular line to the dogs bodies gives a small look at the repeatedly intertwined lines that this image captures. The image was kept in black and white to keep viewers focused one whats happening within the image itself rather than the colors in the scene. Another important aspect in this image is the facial expressions that we can see very clearly within this picture. First we have the visage of the man being attacked by the dogs. His face seems to be very neutral (almost unfazed) to the dogs. tough most would infer someone in his position would be extremely fearful, the presence he gives seems to radiate strength. The group of people in the background of the image show faces of concern. However, they don’t seem interested in helping this man. This may lead viewers to believe that they were fearful that the same actions would be taken on them.
Bill Hudson, Parker High School student Walter Gadsden being attacked by police dogs in Birmingham, Alabama on May 3, 1963; The New York Times