In March 2008 The Big Picture had the opportunity and honor to create a documentary on living photographer legend, Jay Maisel.

Jay Maisel has been a fixture on the New York Art scene since the 50’s. He has a huge body of work that encompasses 13 books and 15 one-man shows.  He is known for his richly saturated, vibrant images that poignantly capture moments involving man, city, light and movement.  He has won several awards including the Art Directors Club Hall of Fame, American Society of Media Photographers’ Photographer of the Year Award and the International Center of Photography’s Infinity Award.

We took the approach of a Day in the Life of Jay Maisel, and followed him and his camera (which is perpetually at his side) around New York City.  We were able to expose the history of the famous Bowery building which he purchased in Manhattan as his creative space.

We were amused by his practical approach to technology and digital photography – the more he could shoot in one go and carry with him the better! – and we were honored to be invited into his inspiring world of art.