Street Photography From A New Perspective

Shooting street photography is always a great way to find some interesting subjects. Not only do you usually achieve a compelling image but you tend to hear some enthralling stories as well. Jesse Rogers went out and shot these in such a way that gives you a sense of optimism for these characters. I know we've all seen B&W's of homeless people and yes they are engaging and frequently depressing, but Jesse series seem to tell the whole story and not just the somber side. Check out his website to view more of his work.
I was able to talk to Jesse a little bit about the project and about his passion for photography.

Fstoppers
What gave you the idea for shooting this series?

Jesse Rogers
I think it mostly developed out of my inability to ignore someone who's trying to talk to me. After being stopped by a few homeless men in Downtown Seattle and realizing how interesting their lives are, I thought, "I should grab a strobe and photograph some of these guys."

Fstoppers
How do most of your conversations normally go, and do you ever have anyone that gives you the cold shoulder?

Jesse Rogers
I usually talk with them for a bit, prior to when I shoot with them. I like to chat, make jokes, hear their story, then come back another day with my gear. They're usually pretty comfortable with me at that point, so they don't mind me taking their photo. I always find a way to return their images if I can - usually by giving them a print. There's been two or three guys who wanted nothing to do with the camera, but for the most part, they're pretty cool with it.

Fstoppers
What do you find most rewarding when shooting these portraits?

Jesse Rogers
So many things. First and foremost, the look on their faces when they see the print. A lot of these men are constantly ignored and dismissed as "crazy" by everyone around them. Having tangible proof of their existence, like a print, to hold onto is huge to these guys. I've made some good friends in a couple of them.Also, it's a great change of pace from the commercial work I do to pay my rent. It's nice to shoot with people who are so stoked on the pictures you took, rather than asking that you photoshop out this blemish or that flyaway hair. I love what I do for a living, but without my personal work, I'd go crazy.

Fstoppers
What inspired you to get into photography?

Jesse Rogers
In high school, I got really into video work because of this guy, Mitchell Davis. I bought a video camera, and found myself taking more stills than video. So I sold it, bought a DSLR, and started figuring out how to use it. Since then, not much has changed.

Fstoppers
What/Who inspires you now?

Jesse Rogers
I'm surrounded by inspirational people, which is awesome. I'm part of a group of photographers called "Brotographers," and that's always a great source of inspiration. But if I had to name some, I'd say F. Scott Schafer, Joey L, and Christian J. Sweet. Those guys put out consistently awesome work, over and over again.