Photography, derived from the Greek words φωτός (phōtos) meaning “light”; and γραφή (graphé) meaning “drawing”; is more than a technical craft for me; it’s an art form that illuminates the world around me. It’s not merely about telling someone else’s story but about shining a light on it, revealing both the minutiae and the grand aspects of our lives.
In recent years, my focus has been on documenting the marginalized subcultures of our time—capturing the dynamic world of street art and the artists behind it, as well as the ongoing political struggles within the LGBTQI+ community, the Black Lives Matter movement, Black Trans Lives Matter, and other progressive causes. Through my lens, I aim to preserve these fleeting fragments of our society, offering a lasting record of our transitory culture.
My approach to photography blends technical knowledge with my creative vision, striving to capture both the intense moments of performance and the quieter, sometimes chaotic, backstage scenes. The final images are meticulously refined using advanced digital techniques, building upon my extensive experience in traditional darkroom work. This process ensures that each
image bears my unique imprint.
The relationship I share with the performers and artists I photograph is one of mutual trust and appreciation. I am deeply grateful to them for their collaboration, which enriches my work. The vibrant world of drag and street art offers a wealth of color, texture, movement, and emotion, and I am honored to present it through my ongoing projects.
Gooch, Photographer