INTERVIEW
February 25, 2020
THE GESSLER PERSPECTIVE
Photography by Jan Gessler
Interview by Melanie Meggs
Meet Jan Gessler, the multi-talented photographer, acrobat, juggler, communications scientist, videographer, film director, and father of two. For the past twenty-seven years, Jan has been steadfastly pursuing his passion for photography and videography, developing a unique talent for capturing intriguing perspectives and angles.
From a young age, Jan had a knack for the creative arts and a special affinity for the darkroom. At twelve years old, he began working with his mother in the darkroom and since then has never looked back. Nowadays, Jan is able to pay his rent through the commercial video productions he creates with his own company Look-Zoom Film Production in Berlin.
But that’s not all — Jan also has a very special hobby which he has been devoted to since the late nineties: street photography. His favorite equipment? Super wide angle lenses. With them, Jan walks the streets of Berlin in search of stories to tell and justice to document. Jan’s works, which are heavily influenced by his love of street photography and wide angle lenses, are both fascinating and inspiring.
It’s clear that Jan knows how to find the beauty in life and he is always looking for new perspectives and angles. Come and learn what Jan Gessler has to offer.
“In 1993 I was helping my mom in her photo lab. When I moved the enlarger I understood that the impression of the photo changes by the frame. That changed my perspective on cameras. Fortunately I could use my parents' cameras. Five years later I could make my first photo publication in a newspaper. This was a photo of a friend doing 'salto' (motion blur with long exposure).”
IN CONVERSATION WITH JAN GESSLER
THE PICTORIAL LIST: Jan please tell us where do you find your inspiration?
JAN GESSLER: I see street photography itself as an inspiration. Especially the editing process. Looking at an individual frame by frame trained my eyes. I think if you are listening carefully and kindly everybody has a story to tell you.
TPL: Has your style of photographing changed since you first started out?
JG: I am faster. I got closer to people during the years. Social injustice in modern times is often a topic in my work. But I have tried to look on the more hopeful side of photography for some time. But sometimes I do the same shot I did 20 years ago because it feels good. My pool of possible shots is growing.
I started with black and white negative. For a while I liked color slides a lot. Since 2008 I have been using mostly digital cameras and I prefer black and white again. I still have the darkroom but I prefer lightroom.
TPL: Do you have a favourite place/s to photograph?
JG: Istanbul. Also Berlin, Budapest, Barcelona, Bangkok and New York.
TPL: Do you have any favourite artists you would like to share with us?
JG: Ara Güler, Orson Welles, Fan Ho, Roger Deakins, René Maltête, Erwitt Elliott and Henri Cartier-Bresson on photography. Michael Ende, Paul Watzlawick, Douglas Adams, Monty Python and Volker Pispers influenced my worldview.
Nearly two decades ago I worked for two years as a camera operator with Director of Photography Aturo D. Smith who likes to share his skills. He is known for his music video clips with the Beastie Boys, Marilyn Manson and several commercials and awarded feature films. His courage to find new perspectives and camera gear for each job has inspired me.
TPL: Do you think equipment is important in achieving your vision in your photography? What would you say to someone just starting out?
JG: Gear is not so important at least when you are starting out. Get a second hand 24mp full frame DSLR Canon or Nikon, a standard lens 50mm and a 28 or 24mm. Prime lenses, not the best quality but no kit zoom. Camera and two lenses are about 800-1200 EUR. If you have less budget go for an apsc or older ff camera and maybe old manual russian photo lenses. I prefer the optical viewfinder in DSLR cameras but a mirrorless camera can do as well. I took some shots with 12MP and smaller cameras and I still love the pictures.
I told all my trainees and students to take as many photos as possible instead of learning more theory than they can digest. But for those who look for input I am sure the grammar of film language is helpful to tell a story in still photography as well. Even if you are not planning to become a videographer take a look at “Shot by Shot” by Steven D. Katz or the books by Christopher Kenworthy and try to tell stories just by framing a person. You will be surprised how easily you can precise the impact of your idea with a change of angle, position and focal length rather than buying the latest camera model.
TPL: What characteristics do you think you need to become a better photographer? What would you advise someone starting in street photography?
JG: Recipes only work until a certain degree and can help you to find out which style(s) you like. Be kind and respectful! Wear a proper shirt!
TPL: Have you ever been involved in the artistic world before photography?
JG: I had worked as a juggler for five years and went to acting and acrobatic school. As a VJ, I created art video installation on about 100 big concerts. I work as a director in documentaries, music videos and commercials. I work as a videographer.
TPL: Are there any special projects you are currently working on that you would like to let everyone know about?
JG: My book WONDERLAND.
TPL: "If I wasn’t photographing what would I be doing?...
JG: I am a father of two daughters, a four month old and three year old. Besides that I run a small company producing Web and TV commercials."
Jan Gessler has established an impressive and unique style of street photography through his creative use of high and low angles. His work is sure to captivate and inspire any viewer. To stay up-to-date with Jan's fascinating images, be sure to follow him on Instagram and connect to see his latest work.
