"Doris Ulmann (1882-1934), one of the foremost photographers of the early part of the twentieth century, had a deep and lasting love affair with the dignity and complexity of the human condition. Born into a New York Jewish family with a tradition of service, Ulmann sought to portray and document individuals from various groups that she feared would change or vanish altogether from American life.".

"Ulmann's photographs, particularly her portraits, have been compared to Rembrandt's work, especially in their use of light. Even when she worked as a photographic documentarian in recording a young African American woman packing asparagus, Ulmann still approached her subject from the perspective of a painter. She strove to create dignified and respectful renderings of people often dishonored or ignored.

To this end, Ulmann created over 10,000 photographs and illustrated five books, including Roll, Jordan, Roll and Handicrafts of the Southern Highlands.".

"In this first full biography of a fascinating, gifted artist, Philip Jacobs examines newly discovered letters, documents, and photographs - many published here for the first time - to bring his subject to life. He profiles Ulmann's intimate relationships with writer Julia Peterkin and folk song collector (and paramour) John Jacob Niles. Including a catalog of her photographs, this richly illustrated work secures Ulmann's rightful place in the history of American photography."--BOOK JACKET.