I had always been interested in taking pictures until earlier this year when I decided to take the next step up into actual photography. I believed it could be used as a good tool to bring the plight of the homeless to light a bit more. I often travel Hollywood, photographing and getting to know the people out there. I thought at first that it would be something new and interesting to do, but it has become something of a crusade for me. I like to get to know the people out there that I photograph, and can honestly say that I can call some of them friends. Often, I have to bring back printed photos to them because they are dying to see them. Anything I can do to help make their days a little bit better, I try to do. Sometimes, I don’t see someone for a while and it both scares me and eases me. I hope that they found themselves a good place to be, but know also what the streets can bring to some of these people.
I’ve also started looking into my own soul, and the darkness that everyone faces and try to bring those to light as well. I’ve had a lot of demons in my life and I’m bringing them out now through my photographs. Call it an “exorcism in photography”. Sometimes I may put a little bit more information out there about myself than I should in my photographs but I feel it is something that needs to be done.
I am not as concerned with the technical side of things when it comes to photography. My intent is to make someone feel something when they look at a photo. Whether it be sadness, happiness, anger, or whatever it may be, I just want everyone to FEEL something. I have had people ask me why I always do such depressing photos. To me, they’re not. I’m not even interested in “depressed”. I just simply want to convey a feeling across and hope that I am successful with every photo that I take.
I use a Nikon D3100 for most of my photography, but also use a Holga 120CFN from time to time, and will not hesitate to use my cell phone either if no other camera is at hand. The best camera there is the one that’s in your hands at the moment.
My main inspirations are Nikki Sixx and Joel-Peter Wilkin. I’m also a big fan of Ansel Adams, but then again, who isn’t when it comes to black and white photography, like I do. I would love to have a book out someday of both my photographs and my thoughts.
Links:
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/jeffgishphotography
Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeffg1170/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/jeffgishphoto
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