CALIBER

Back in the mid-90s when I first started doing journalism as a volunteer radio talk show host at KDVS-FM in Davis, I was always amused when I would ask someone where they thought things were headed and they would answer, “I can’t predict the future.” I love that answer. And it’s how I think about journalism right now. All I can offer are guesses. I have no idea how things will look in a few years, but I can imagine the big institutions continuing to shrink while more and more smaller, independent organizations and individuals get involved. I like hyperlocal journalism and hope it thrives. More power in the hands of more people seems like a good thing for society. On the other hand, at least for now, there are fewer paying jobs. The changes we’re seeing probably are having an affect on the quality of journalism. It’s not a simple matter of it getting better or worse, but overall I’m optimistic and think the changes will be for the better. I could be wrong.

I think they’re pretty close, but it just depends. Photojournalism should tell a story. Street and documentary photography might tell one, or they might raise questions more than they give answers.

From what I’ve seen of it, I admire the work of people like Garry Winogrand, Dorothea Lange, Henri Cartier-Bresson and Robert Capa. The photographers I’m most inspired by are my peers — mainly, contacts I’ve made through Flickr. I try and spend as much time as I can, usually every day, looking at their pictures. If I could hang out for day with anyone, I might choose Eric Brandt, because I really admire his work but haven’t had a chance to meet him yet.

Tell us about a memorable instance where having your camera made an impact on what you were experiencing.

I always have my camera with me, so it impacts my experience more often than not. I’m constantly looking around and seeking out opportunities. Last year there was this blackbird named Swoops that got famous for attacking pedestrians on Front Street in downtown San Francisco. I went over there with my camera and got lucky.

What would be your dream destination for photographic purposes?

San Francisco is a dream destination. Another would be Paris.

What are your current projects and what are you inspired to photograph at present?

I’m interested mostly in doing more street photography and getting better at it. I’ve recently collected a bunch of pictures of people paired with street art, though I wouldn’t call it a project. Seems too formal.

Tell us about your gear and workflow.

I use a Nikon D90 along with an 18-200mm zoom lens, a 50mm prime, and a 105mm macro. The zoom stays on there most of the time. Manual exposure and focus. Lightroom for all the processing. I publish one picture a day.

Share a favorite photograph with us that you’ve taken and tell us about it.

Here’s one I took in the Powell Street BART station. I guess I like it because of the lines and the sense of depth, but the girl in the yellow shirt is what makes it special to me.

Thanks, Justin.