Meet Jesús Rodríguez
Meet Jesús Rodríguez, a visionary fashion photographer whose work is deeply influenced by the cinematic grandeur of films and the genuine essence of documentary photography.
Born in Caracas, Venezuela, and now making his mark in Barcelona, Spain, Jesús's portfolio is a reflection of his evolving artistic vision and his dedication to capturing compelling narratives with his camera. The impact of filmmakers like Kubrick and Scorsese, known for their visual symmetry and rich storytelling, is seamlessly integrated into Jesús’s style. His artistic journey is highlighted by his use of photography to channel and articulate his experiences, capturing the essence of his surroundings and personal insights.
In Barcelona, Jesús’s work continues to resonate with contemporary fashion, marked by unique artistic flair. His distinguished contributions have led to collaborations with fashion models experienced with high-profile brands such as YSL, Valentino, and Dior, along with features in internationally acclaimed publications, emphasizing his role as a boundary-transcending photographer. He remains committed to exploring new expressive possibilities, consistently seeking fresh ways to infuse his photographs with beauty and emotional depth.
How has your journey as a self-taught photographer influenced your creative process and your perspective on the art form?
J.R: Being a self-taught photographer has deeply influenced my entire career trajectory. My approach to preparing for a photoshoot is distinct from that of other photographers, as I rely heavily on instinct. While this instinctual approach has its challenges, particularly in mastering technical aspects like retouching and lighting, I find beauty in this journey of discovery. For me, it's about representing what my eyes see and what I find beautiful, prioritizing creativity over technical perfection. I believe that as I continue on this path, I will naturally refine my technical skills while staying true to my instinctual approach.
Can you talk about the artists who have had the most significant impact on your photographic style and explain what elements from their work you incorporate into your own?
J.R: Most of my influences stem from the world of cinema. I vividly recall the profound impact Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining" had on me. The meticulous attention to detail, the striking colors, and the deliberate composition all left an indelible mark on my artistic sensibilities. Learning that Kubrick was a self-taught photographer before becoming a film director opened my eyes to a new perspective on cinema and photography. This revelation propelled me to delve deeper into the visual language of cinema, shaping my approach to composition and movement. Additionally, Peter Lindbergh's pioneering work in fashion photography has greatly influenced my style. His ability to blend naturalness, elegance, and storytelling in black-and-white imagery has inspired me to explore similar themes in my own work.
In your work, how do you balance the spontaneous moments with the need for careful composition?
J.R: I am constantly striving to capture spontaneous moments while maintaining a sense of careful composition in my photography. Whether I'm shooting on the streets or in a controlled studio environment, I approach each moment with the intention of surprising myself with an unexpected capture. This spontaneity fuels my creativity and keeps my photography dynamic. However, I also recognize the importance of composition in elevating these spontaneous moments. By paying attention to lines, angles, and shapes, I aim to create visually compelling images that resonate with viewers on a deeper level.
Fashion storytelling is a powerful medium. How do you utilize it to convey deeper messages in your photographs?
J.R: Utilizing fashion storytelling as a medium allows me to convey deeper messages in my photographs. Before each project, I create a mood board with reference images to establish the look and feel I want to achieve. While I use this as a guide, I also embrace improvisation during the photoshoot to capture authentic moments. This approach allows me to infuse each photograph with a sense of reality and emotion, creating images that tell a compelling story beyond the surface aesthetics.
The fashion world is fast-paced, yet your work captures moments that feel eternal. What is your approach to achieving this timelessness?
J.R: Fashion, like other art forms, is constantly evolving, but I strive to create work that transcends trends and captures timeless moments. By distancing myself from the everyday consumption of fashion trends, I approach each project with a fresh perspective, drawing inspiration from deep emotions and personal experiences. This method empowers me to craft images that not only resonate with present-day viewers but also exude a timeless essence that captures the essence of humanity across generations.
Could you share your approach to layering narrative depth in your images? What techniques do you find most effective?
J.R: In my quest to layer narrative depth in my images, I often turn to black-and-white photography. The monochromatic palette allows me to play with light, shadows, and shapes to create images that are visually captivating and emotionally evocative. However, beyond black-and-white photography, I also utilize techniques such as careful lighting, composition, and subject matter selection to add depth and complexity to my photographs. By carefully considering each element within the frame, I aim to create images that invite viewers to explore multiple layers of meaning.
Is there a project that has deeply resonated with you, perhaps changing your direction or thinking? What was it about this project that had such an impact?
J.R: One project that deeply resonated with me was an unpublished editorial I shot in Barcelona in 2021. This project holds a special place in my heart as it reflects a challenging period in my life. During the shoot, I was experiencing homelessness amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, having recently arrived in a new country. Despite facing these hardships for about three months, I channeled my emotions into the creative process, resulting in a series of images that authentically captured my inner turmoil and resilience. This project served as a cathartic experience for me, reaffirming the transformative power of photography as a means of self-expression and storytelling.
Looking forward, are there any new themes or techniques you're eager to explore in your photography?
J.R: I'm definitely interested in incorporating videos into my projects as the next step in storytelling. While I've experimented with using my iPhone for fashion videos in the past, I'm eager to take it to the next level. My goal is to create short films that blend a documentary-style vision with the glamour of fashion. I'm currently exploring various techniques and approaches to bring this vision to life and looking forward to seeing where it takes me.
Jesús Rodríguez’s body of work stands out for its ability to convey the beauty and complexity of human experiences. His progression from a self-taught photographer to an internationally recognized talent underscores his relentless drive for artistic innovation and a profound connection to storytelling. His approach goes beyond simple photo-taking, creating images that captivate and narrate, achieved through a blend of technical skill and artistic intuition.
