Vera Jackson established herself as a significant figure in 20th-century American photography through her work with the Black press. Based in Los Angeles, she captured the nuances of African-American life, providing a visual record of a community often overlooked by mainstream media outlets of the era.

Her portfolio is defined by intimate portraits and candid documentation of prominent cultural and political figures. She is particularly recognized for her photographs of notable individuals including Jackie Robinson, Mary McLeod Bethune, Dorothy Dandridge, Hattie McDaniel, and Lena Horne.