Avedon developed a characteristically minimalist style in portraiture which lent itself well to his strong interest in capturing the essence and personality of his subjects.  He is also distinguished by his use of large prints, some up to 3 feet high.  Although he made his name in the glamorous world of fashion and celebrity, many of his subjects revealed the gritty, blue-collar side of American life.  Like Diane Arbus, he ultimately received criticism for his stark depictions of what were considered generally unappealing characters.  In 1992, Avedon became the first ever staff photographer for the New Yorker.  His book entitled "In the American West" depicts the lives of working people in the western country, and it is regarded as an important hallmark of 20th century photography.