Who is Brice Gelot? A Street Photographer? A Portrait Photographer? A Photojournalist telling the hidden from sight stories that we sometimes hear about but never dare to get close to in our world within? Stories of Life & People whom we Love to Look at but ONLY through the “Safety” of book pages or on Exhibition Walls?
Brice is ALL of It & Non of it & ALL of it.
He is the one who dared! A War Photographer in The Civilian Universe of Life & Love but not Just ANY Civilians! His Photography is a reminder of the sometimes forgotten bond of Trust between people.
Brice Gelot is a french self-taught photographer who has gained a strong reputation for his raw and powerful photography, known for his photojournalism, documenting the street culture and tattoo community.
Copyright ⓒ Brice Gelot
Copyright ⓒ Brice Gelot
Born and raised in Dijon, he started in 2004 using a Canon A1 learning film photography with the urge to share stories to show various perspectives and ways of seeing the world. His passion & Philosophy for photography and his World View developed while traveling and Photographing the world and very special people.
His Personal Style is not just of Traditional Street Photography though he shoots on the streets & about the streets and his photographs have been featured in magazines, press agency and art galleries across the world, gaining him a reputation as a lead in Street Photography & Photojournalism.
What and who You See in Brice’s Photographs, are NO snap shots of a Crime or a Thriller movie set, But REAL FOLKS IN REAL LIFE.
Look hard enough & if you are awake, you might even see yourself or your own thoughts!
And If you think it’s Easy…… Go For it & see!!!
Copyright ⓒ Brice Gelot
Copyright ⓒ Brice Gelot
In Conversation with Brice……
Q: How did you arrive at Photography?
Let’s jump back to 2004, I started to work as photographer for my local skate shop, shooting the skate scene, and punk movement… then working for skate brands and magazines. I think you can start to become a photographer when you start to make some money and a living.
Before that I was just having fun shooting my friends, I never did any art school, I learned photography by my own in the old way with film camera.
Q: What was the drive & How did you end up choosing the projects that you shoot?
I think It’s coming out naturally, I always been into the street and tattoo culture with all the subculture around it. Some of my projects reflect on important issues such as poverty, street violence, humanitarian crisis, social justice and human rights. All my projects are long terms, storytelling is about using visual elements to engage the viewer’s imagination and emotions, I try by inviting them to interpret and connect with the narrative in their own way. As photographer, we have the power to leave a lasting impression for our audience.
Copyright ⓒ Brice Gelot
Copyright ⓒ Brice Gelot
Q: It’s not easy to photograph Gangs & the Mafia et al but judging by the powerful portraits, clearly they all trusted you? Was it easy for you? How di did first start ?
Of course, it’s not easy, gangs, mafia or any other criminal organisation stays a criminal organisation, having this opportunity to approach them is a very rare moment, it’s all about trust and respect.
Like any war photographers, I am not here to promote war or any illicit activities, like I always said: I like to show the world as it is because for me nothing’s more interesting than the reality.
Q: What have you learnt that you didn’t know before ?
Where I can find chaos, I find beauty. I let the street speak, and I just document what I see… Compassion is the gentle force that binds humanity together, fostering empathy, understanding, and kindness in our interactions with others. It is the profound ability to recognise and resonate with the joys and sorrows of those around us, regardless of our differences.
Q: What are you looking for in your photography? What is the purpose?
My main objective is to capture the essence of street life through my unique and distinct vision, this will always be the core. I endeavour to ignite empathy and comprehension for individuals often marginalised or overlooked.
My mission is to confront viewers assumptions and showcase the resilience and fortitude of those navigating adversity.
Copyright ⓒ Brice Gelot
Copyright ⓒ Brice Gelot
My dedication to photojournalism lies a conviction: images wield immense potential for societal transformation, catalysing crucial dialogues on contemporary challenges. I aspire to dismantle stereotypes, foster empathy, and shed light on pressing issues I like to cover with my projects. The ultimate goal is to foster awareness, provoke thoughtful reflection, and contribute to positive social change.
Q: Do you have a particular photograph that is Special to you?
Ricky Adam and Ed Templeton obviously as I pretty much started photography cause of them, to be in total admiration about their work and talent.
Lastly, for your Gear-Head readers : What equipment you use?
I am working with Fujifilm, XH2 for the camera and 35mm Fujinon for the lens, simple like that.
I still use analog sometimes for some personal project, and collect vintage camera.
To Learn More about Brice, visit his Website
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