Breaking new ground and creating a reputation as one of the worlds greatest street photographers, Bruce Gilden has not only influenced an entire generation of photographers but revolutionized he way we see composition, lighting and the stories behind photos in general. Born in 1946 and active since the early 70’s, Gilden purchased his first camera after viewing the film “Blowup” in 1968. A current student at Penn State and majoring in Sociology, Gilden had already grasped the concept of how we interact, talk, move, touch and feel as humans. Before he even begging his career as a street photographer, Gilden had already figured out one of the main components “People”. Currently still hosting exhibitions and traveling around the world, Gilden still continues to create a widely know name as his works becoming known across the globe. Now a commissioned photographer for cities and corporations, Gidlen still seems to maintain the earthy and real feel to his photos no matter the environment or conditions. Joining Magnum photo in 1998, the prestigious honor has left him with the urge to conquer the world. At age 67, Gilden still maintains the status and the world foremost street photographer. Ive never felt photography needed a guide line, I never felt the need to purchase thousands and thousand of dollars worth of camera gear and I never felt the need to place restrictions on my self. Ive always let my photos explain where I am, Who I am or where Im going to be. My photography has always been and will always have a meaning, the stories I have or want to tell will always have a place in each and every single one of my photos. Bruce Gilden has maintained his status as one of the greatest photographers alive because of how real he is, his photos inspire even the blankest of minds and create and overwhelming sense of emotion in each and ever sincere photo. Gilden has taught me many thing, to shoot where I am, to document humanity, create unconventional compositions, create mystery and to keep breaking new ground. Although today I still don't have a clue as to what to do with my life, I do however know photography will play a
huge role in it. Gilden has inspired me to the point where I don’t fear my future but get excited for it. Although the world changes daily, photography however will still have its place in capturing humanity in all its truest forms.
“I'm known for taking pictures very close, and the older I get, the closer I get.�-Bruce Gilden
This project put me through a tremendous amount of pressure and self loathing, the entire project in essence revolved around me creating a piece whether it be graphite or charcoal and immediately hating it a second later. Although many of my pieces are linked to the traditional tattoo culture, my photography portion however is greatly inspired by Bruce Gilden, His attitude towards breaking new ground and being in the moment lead me to creating the photo. At first I was very much interested in using a studio piece I had created a few weeks before, but Gilden inspired me to walk around downtown and spend a few hours to myself and my camera. I took his advice and tried my best to be less uncomfortable with my surroundings and really open up to getting closer and going above and beyond your own standards. To conclude, Although this project had left me with a few artist dilemmas I do however believe i have certainly gained a bit more respect for my own street photography.