License Photo Studio, New York

For a tiny structure seemingly tacked onto the end of another building, the license photo studio in New York makes much ado about its services. No fewer than six signs advertise that this is the place to have photographs for driver's licenses made, and it is one-stop shopping at that: clients can borrow a car for the road test, pick up the application, and get a document notarized besides. Walker Evans's closely cropped photograph isolates the business on the corner, transforming it into a curious box. A sign from an adjoining business at left and graffiti on the wall also make their bid for attention, but they are outnumbered and overpowered by the show of strength made by the "photos."