Prospect Park: Photographs of a Brooklyn Oasis, 1980 to 2025 - Hardcover

by Jamel Shabazz (Author), Laylah Amatullah Barrayn (Contribution by), Richard E. Green (Contribution by)

Spanning 45 years of Jamel Shabazz's photography in Prospect Park, this gorgeous and meditative volume captures the heart and soul of Brooklyn through one of its most cherished spaces.

Known for his iconic NYC street photography documenting the city's African American community, Jamel Shabazz first gained widespread acclaim with his books Back in the Days and A Time Before Crack, renowned for their vivid portrayal of 1980s style and culture.

However, long before his fame as a photographer, Shabazz served in the military and as a corrections officer for twenty years. After long days at work, he often sought refuge in Brooklyn's Prospect Park, describing it as a place to find inner peace--and, since 1980, he has continued capturing its vibrant spirit.

This collection features his signature portraits of locals, from Afro-Caribbean percussionists at Drummer's Grove to multicultural families enjoying moments of quiet reflection. Complementing these human-centered images are lesser-seen landscapes revealing the serene beauty of the park.

Together, these photographs underscore its dual role as a bustling cultural hub and a tranquil refuge. Perfect for anyone who cherishes Brooklyn's cultural history, this volume reveals a new and deeply personal side of Shabazzʼs work, offering a compelling portrait of community, resilience, and connection within an urban sanctuary.

Author Biography

JAMEL SHABAZZ is best known for his iconic images of New York City during the 1980s and 1990s. A documentary, fashion, and street photographer, he has also authored numerous books, including the monographs Back in the Days and A Time Before Crack.

LAYLAH AMATULLAH BARRAYN is a documentary photographer, curator, and educator, and a frequent contributor to the New York Times.

RICHARD E. GREEN is a highly-decorated Vietnam veteran, activist, and founder of the nonprofit Crown Heights Youth Collective.

NOELLE THÉARD is a senior photo editor at the New Yorker. Previously, she was program officer at Magnum Foundation.