Infinity (Journal of the American Society of Magazine Photographers), May 1968. Joel-Peter Witkin, David Vestal, et al.

Volume 17, No. 5. [Featuring portfolios by David Vestal, David Rosenfeld, and Joel-Peter Witkin, plus articles: "Photography-Fact or Artifact" by Charles Reynolds (review of Photography as Printmaking Exhibit at Museum of Modern Art, New York) and "Intention and Reality: A Journey into Darkest Photography" by Nathan Resnick.] Near fine with imprint address of original recipient at bottom of cover. Particularly notable for the early examples of Witkin's imagery. Summary:

The May issue of Infinity, the monthly journal published by the American Society of Magazine Photographers (ASMP), functions as a critical archival cross-section of photographic experimentation and professional discourse. Edited by Charles Reynolds, this installment spotlights emerging conceptual perspectives alongside deep-dive technical and artistic profiles.

The issue outlines several prominent creative showcases and portfolios:

• An Early Joel-Peter Witkin Portfolio: The definitive visual centerpiece of the issue is a curated, black-and-white portfolio by a young Joel-Peter Witkin. This early showcase captures the nascent stages of Witkin’s highly provocative, surrealist aesthetic before he achieved widespread international renown.

• Distinct Portfolio Showcases: Alongside Witkin's work, the volume features dedicated, multi-page portfolios by photographers David Vestal and David Rosenfeld. These collections highlight a diverse spectrum of documentary nuance and mid-century street photography styles.

• Spotlighting Roman Vishniac: The issue includes a dedicated feature examining the multi-disciplinary imagery of Roman Vishniac. Timed closely with contemporary network television specials about his work, this showcase highlights Vishniac's unique dual legacy in both microscopic biological photography and poignant social documentary.

• Industry and Craft Dialogues: Beyond artistic retrospectives, the journal serves as a key trade document from a transformative year in media history. Through its regular columns and reviews, the issue tracks the evolving economic realities, technical equipment updates, and shifting creative philosophies binding the professional magazine photography community together at the close of the decade.