Unknown is a work in progress. I have been shooting people that catch my attention with a 4x5 camera. They are all strangers that I approach on the streets. For this series I have traveled to 4 different Countries so far. It’s an invaluable experience, the process proving to be as rewarding as the outcome. I learned not to be shy and how to talk to people. I have been improving since my first trip. I first went to Berlin, and it was really hard to talk to people, but since I wanted the images so bad I got over that.
This is my people collection. For me there is nothing more fascinating than people. First is the interaction, every portrait has it’s own history and they are usually really funny. I get to know people that I would never have the chance to meet, when we can communicate, of course. I find myself naturally drawn to the underdog, but generally they are harder to approach. Usually, they don’t understand why I would want their photos and are suspicious at my intention. Mean while hipsters and society’s idea of beautiful people are ready to pose the second I take out my camera.
Another interesting thing for me is the way they pose. It’s different every time. I never direct them, I only ask them to be natural. Since I shoot all in 4x5, which means every shot is slow and expensive, I only do one shot per person. I believe that the first picture is always the most sincere.
My first 2 trips I went to Berlin and London and I took a lot of Polaroid film with me. I would offer the people an exchange, I would give them a Polaroid if they let me photograph them. I think that helped me a lot with the approach. It was just weird for me to ask for something without offering anything in return. I got over that! During my trip to Paris I did everything different. I got everyone’s names and addresses and I promised to send them the images after I developed them.
I’m currently shooting in New York City. The next trip I am going to Brazil, my hometown.
