Some of the photos taken by Horace Brazelton on display in the “Through the Lens” exhibit at Ruby Falls.(Ruby Falls)

Horace Brazelton was the first African-American to open a professional photography studio here in Chattanooga.

His specialty: portraits.

Brazelton documented middle-class families and individuals - as well as church, civic and professional groups - from Black communities during the first half of the 20th Century, the era of Jim Crow segregation across the South.

As a photographer, a business owner and a community leader, he empowered those he served.

An exhibit of his work - “Through the Lens: The Life and Legacy of Horace Brazelton” - is now on display at Ruby Falls, through September 15th.

Stefaine Haire - a historic preservation planner - curated the exhibit.

Lara Caughman is with Ruby Falls.

One photo taken by Horace Brazelton in the “Through the Lens” exhibit at Ruby Falls.(Ruby Falls)Horace Brazelton.(Ruby Falls)