One shot interview with David Gibson

What made you push the shutter button to capture this image?

I had to take it, he was just leaning back in the bright sunlight outside North Hollywood Metro station. I’d taken the Metro somewhat randomly to just get away from the centre of Los Angeles — I had led a workshop there — and had a few free days to really explore the city and take some photos. Taken in February this year, it was my first visit to LA.

I walked past the man the first time thinking shall I, shan’t I take a photo? How aware of me is he, etc? He seemed in his own world, a cool guy leaning back. The colours, the shadows everything was there. And crucially the shadow right upon him, I wanted him hidden. I took a handful of shots, edging slightly closer each time and then walked away feeling relieved that I’d got it.

Is this image part of a wider project, if so what is the projects focus?

Not really part of any project, just another street photo.

Why is this image special to you?

Because I got what I saw. Maybe it’s not typical of my style but then I’m not in North Hollywood very often.

Is there any photography books that inspired you to capture this image?

Not specifically but I was thinking that this is a bit Alex Webb. I could mention David Alan Harvey too...I have many photo books, perhaps more feature black and white photographs but I love colour. This is my photo though, I always go looking for ‘my photos’.

What camera are you currently using?

Fuji x100t

Please tell us about yourself

I have taken photographs on the street for over thirty years, it’s a struggle sometimes and I have bursts of energy. But I started 2020 on a sort of roll, a real burst of energy with a trip to Hanoi, then Lisbon and then finally Los Angeles. Completely different places but the momentum was with me when I took this.

https://www.instagram.com/davidgibsonstreetphotography/