Why are 1953 Bowman color so awesome?

[cornhusker]

A great visual set because of the ability of the photographers. No out of focus snapshots from across the field in this set. Fantastic composition that captures the moment - and, the designers purposely kept the cards clean and simple w/no detracting banners, headers, or logos. A perfect example of how less is more. Of course I love the '72 topps set as well

[Tere1071]

The cards have a certain warmth, unlike newer cards which have a brighter, crisper image. No criticism intended by the comparison.

As I mentioned the set for the most part offers beautiful photography, but there are certain numbers that didn't benefit from the process. It's hard to discern the facial features of Hector Rodriguez, #98, and the Lown, Surkont, Lollar, and Fox all appear to be a bit murky. Lie many previous sets quality control leaves something to be desired for this set- too many off-center and miscut cards to begin with. I've also wondered why there are two cards of Al Corwin in the set.

Are there any certain cards that collectors would like to point out for their artistry?

[GasHouseGang]

I can't believe no one has at least posted a card. Here's a Musial.

[Tere1071]

That's a very, very nice Musial. Let's see some more cards!

[Peter_Spaeth]

a few

[ASF123]

The Roberts is another stunner. The Phillies colors come through so richly, and the detail and texture of his glove...not to mention the expression on his face of course.

[Tere1071]

Originally Posted by Peter_Spaeth

a few

You have some great looking cards! Hopefully more 53 Bowman collectors will post their cards to share. Mid and lower grade cards are also fine to display, let's share our collecting with one another.

[bobsbbcards]

[Chris-Counts]

I have long wondered who the photographer was? He was certainly a master of working with light. I suppose he could have been a she. That might explain why just about every player in the set seems like he's in such a good mood. Or maybe the photographer brought a pretty woman along to flirt with the players. I would have done it. They're all smiling and seem relaxed.

I like every photo in the set except the one of Alvin Dark. To have so many great shots, it makes me wonder how many shots of each player were taken. And what became of the negatives. I'm guessing they also photographed a bunch of players who never made it into the set.

Originally Posted by cornhusker

A great visual set because of the ability of the photographers. No out of focus snapshots from across the field in this set. Fantastic composition that captures the moment - and, the designers purposely kept the cards clean and simple w/no detracting banners, headers, or logos. A perfect example of how less is more. Of course I love the '72 topps set as well

[Casey2296]

Kodachrome, just like the movies filmed in Kodachrome the colors are richer than standard film.

[Tere1071]

Originally Posted by Chris Counts

I have long wondered who the photographer was? He was certainly a master of working with light. I suppose he could have been a she. That might explain why just about every player in the set seems like he's in such a good mood. Or maybe the photographer brought a pretty woman along to flirt with the players. I would have done it. They're all smiling and seem relaxed.

I like every photo in the set except the one of Alvin Dark. To have so many great shots, it makes me wonder how many shots of each player were taken. And what became of the negatives. I'm guessing they also photographed a bunch of players who never made it into the set.

I wonder if the negatives became part of the purchase when Bowman sold their operations and archives to Topps in 1956. As for additional photographs, I don't know if anyone has weighed in with any evidence. The 53 Bowman color set hasn't been the subject of deep analysis. I am hoping that through this thread collectors could share their knowledge of the history of this particular set, its peculiarities, and display what we have collected. For example, I never knew until recently that there are five test cards that were never issued for the set.

[ASF123]

Originally Posted by Tere1071

I wonder if the negatives became part of the purchase when Bowman sold their operations and archives to Topps in 1956. As for additional photographs, I don't know if anyone has weighed in with any evidence. The 53 Bowman color set hasn't been the subject of deep analysis. I am hoping that through this thread collectors could share their knowledge of the history of this particular set, its peculiarities, and display what we have collected. For example, I never knew until recently that there are five test cards that were never issued for the set.

The 1952 Red Man Roberts looks like it could well be based on a slightly different photo from the same session.