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Charles H. Traub's Lunchtime Series Captures 1970s Street Photography

publication · 2026-04-22

Photographer Charles H. Traub created the Lunchtime series between 1977 and 1980, documenting ordinary people during their midday breaks. He captured scenes in Chicago, New York, and various European cities, focusing on unassuming daily moments. The images feature distinctive 1970s fashion elements like dramatic makeup, voluminous hairstyles, and oversized sunglasses. Traub's work transforms mundane lunchtime activities into artistic observations of urban life. The collection is available for viewing on his website, and a book titled Lunchtime has been published. The series offers nostalgic glimpses into late-1970s street culture through candid portraits of passersby.

Key facts

  • Charles H. Traub created the Lunchtime photography series
  • The series was produced between 1977 and 1980
  • Photographs were taken in Chicago, New York, and European cities
  • Subjects are ordinary people during lunchtime breaks
  • Images feature 1970s fashion including big hair and sunglasses
  • The collection is viewable on Traub's website
  • A book titled Lunchtime documents the series
  • The work transforms everyday scenes into artistic observations

Entities

Artists

  • Charles H. Traub

Institutions

  • frankie

Locations

  • Chicago
  • New York
  • United States

Sources