| Addison (Norton) N. Scurlock | |
| Birth Date: | 19 June 1883 |
| Birth Place: | Fayetteville, North Carolina |
| Death Place: | Washington, DC |
| Occupation: | Photographer, businessman |
| Notable Works: | Photographing Black Washington |
Addison N. Scurlock (June 19, 1883 - December 16, 1964)[1] was an American photographer, founder of The Scurlock Studio, and businessman who became prominent in the early and mid-20th century for photographing Black Washington.
Addison Norton Scurlock was born in Fayetteville, North Carolina, on June 19, 1883. Businessman and Republican politician George C. Scurlock was his father. He had two siblings, including the biochemist Herbert Clay Scurlock.[2] In 1900 after finishing high school, he moved to Washington, D.C., with his family. Scurlock began an apprenticeship with white photographer Moses P. Rice in order to pursue photography. He apprenticed from 1901 to 1904 before establishing himself as a photographer.[3]
The first Scurlock Studio opened in 1904 on S Street in Northwest D.C., which was his parents' home. In 1906, the family and studio moved to Florida Avenue. Two years later, they moved to 1202 T Street NW. In 1911, Addison opened a studio at 900 U Street NW. There he erected a display case, which was a popular attraction at the heart of Black Washington on Black Broadway.
Addison Scurlock's sons, George H. and Robert S. Scurlock, joined the business in the 1930s. The Scurlock Studio family business was operated by Robert until his death in 1994.[4]
The work of Addison N. Scurlock and the Scurlock Studio was affiliated with ideas about pride and progress of the New Negro. The location of the studio in Scurlock's home community and its location in Washington, D.C., facilitated this. The Black elite in Washington and everyday African Americans were aware of the power of both photography and capturing their image in positive ways. Scurlock, not only shot portraits, but also events such as church picnics, meetings, and high school graduations.[5] The following is a brief list of the Scurlock Studio's notable subjects.[6]
Award-winning film director Hakeem Khaaliq is Scurlock's great-nephew.[7]