Bryan! Your videos are sooooo good. It's so special to hear about your process and the stories behind your photographs. I'm not sure if it's the little tinklin'-tunes and violins that you add in, but I'm always left with tears in my eyes. I think it's not the violins as much as it is your portrayal of the phenomenon of being afraid to do something, and doing it anyways. The accomplishment of that and the reward of a beautiful portrait is moving. As always, thanks for sharing.
That is amazing to hear, Lily. I can really only feel the emotions you mention after months without watching. While editing I become desensitized in a way so I’m glad that the feelings resonate with you! 🖤
I imagine that if you had a small portfolio to show to the people you want to ask for a portrait that would increase the positive answers to the request. Love your portraits!
You Sir are a Master...I believe books will be written about you, stories will be told, your journey and the way you tell it have struck a cord with me...FYI I also live in IL and a small farm town...and does it ever have some photographic scenes to offer...VERY VERY inspired by you! Thank you for being you. You Sir are my favorite visual/audio story teller. Thx
Bryan I haven't commented for a while (didn't want to be annoying saying the same thing all the time). But I just have to say this old lady really finds your videos, your thoughts, and your discussions very real and so worthwhile. Thank you for sharing all of what you share.
Really enjoyed this. Been watching photo videos all day. This was the best. Making an “average” person beautiful…to make people realize that they are in-fact… beautiful. I loved it.
I love that first portrait of the young man smoking and sitting on the tailgate. The shot with his back to you, awesome. I really appreciate your work and the overall asthetic and pacing of the videos. Thanks
The portrait of him looking off into the distance isn’t just a beautiful portrait but there’s feeling in his face. You look at that and get a sense of how his day’s been, what’s on his mind. That’s something I aspire to with my own image making, great job.
I wish I could say that I did something special in anyway but I guess all I really did was be there in that moment, and get lucky to a certain degree (a very high degree), but again, that is more than most people are willing to do. Just try to get in those moments, Robbie. 🍻
You are the only photographer I follow where the length of the videos are always far too short. You are inspiring, captivating and your passion is contagious. Please don't stop dude!
Can’t stop. Won’t stop. Video length is tough. I try to make it long enough to get a singular point across but short enough where it’s not boring. But when I’m editing, I think everything that I’m saying is boring so it’s nice to hear that it really isn’t. 😂
Driving 40 minutes 3 times is serious dedication and it was well worth it!! Honestly having him with his back to the camera turned out better than I think having him facing the camera would have. It really makes this seem more like a still from a movie and less like a portrait
40 minutes in the Midwest is chump change. Haha I am really excited about the opportunities that this new way of posing will bring. Just want to do my best to keep it authentic and not staged though. Might be tough.
I have been watching this series for a long time. This is easily one of my favorites. The photo of Jesse looking into the back of his truck, not facing you is amazing. Even without seeing his face, he looks contemplative. You don't always need the eyes or face to get emotive images. Looking forward to seeing all of these together in a collection.
Bryan…I stopped this video at 6:45 in to say how much I enjoy your work. It’s great to see how your work is evolving. I know you know this but don’t get down if you don’t take a shot. If it doesn’t feel right…there’s a reason. -robb
Bryan, I don't comment on youtube videos a lot but I just wanted you know know that you're my favourite youtuber. The brutal honesty you share about your process rings so true. I honestly don't understand why you don't have more subscribers, your videos bring me joy. Well done sir.
Happy to hear that! Glad you get something out of them. Subscribers will come. I envy some that have more but then I think about the negatives that will come along with that so I can wait patiently for that day.
I really enjoyed this and I have no idea about making portraits as I am a landscape photographer but I always involve a human element somewhere. I like how you approach people. I generally rake a small portfolio or use my iPhone to show ppl my website. I use 8 x10 primarily but for quick portraits of my homelands and ppl I use my ancient iPhone and get their email mails or address and mail the results as soon as I can. Ppl really appreciate that. I do very quick images before they get into their "poses". Sometimes I will stop at rest stops and ask if I can photograph a group or family and they always says yes. When out in the field. I just wave at ppl passing by and they soon come over and ask about the " strange" camera and ask why I use it. I often let them see the image on the ground glass and that awes many. Ppl are very happy to talk about their lands.
This is what photography is all about, totally authentic and really inspiring work. Stunning portraits that capture the subjects perfectly and make the viewer feel as if they've know them for years.
Man, each one of those shots got more and more stunning. You must have an incredible body of work for this project so far, I can't wait to see your book!
The photos come more slowly these days but the results are much better most of the time. It’s just about finding the subjects…that takes a bit. I appreciate the support!
Sometimes the process of kicking yourself over not doing what you need to do, is what's needed to build up the courage and determination to just do it when the chance comes again. You have a great way of telling the story around the photos, which makes the video so much more interesting than many photography youtubers.
I’m happy that you think that. Sometimes I talk and it feels like I’m rambling or going on too long. Nice to know it’s not garbage commentary coming out of my mouth. 😂
@@BryanBirks This video even made me question what I thought was a basic requirement to make a video about photography: filming the photographer when s/he is taking the photo. You showed that with good narration and some B-roll, it can be even better without seeing the photographer in action. This inspired me and is somehting I'm going to take with me when I make my own videos. Keep up the great work!
Your storytelling gives your already beautiful work a level of impact that is immeasurable. It's this sort of intangible element that makes your videos a true pleasure to watch. Thank you for sharing your work and your experiences.
The thumbnail (portrait of Travis) for this video really drew me in, Bryan. I just got a 4x5 monorail cam myself and to learn, I've been soaking up whatever LF videos I can find on UA-cam and reading as much as I can. The pace of this video and the quality of the photos makes me optimistic for the journey ahead. Just know your stories and your shots have impact.
This is a really beautiful and considerate piece of work, and I love your photos. The last with the man looking into the truck being a favourite. Your work is so careful and beautiful - thank you for sharing.
I love your reasoning behind making these photos, very pure and true. I wonder when they see these photos of themselves if it’s like a new perspective or light. Like the one man joking about being a model, has he ever seen himself that way? Anyway, I love your videos, your work ❤
This video just singlehandedly pulled me out of a creative hole. It is an extremely moving watch, the way you talk, the stories connected with the creation of these photos, the music and of course the photos themselves hit a deep spot. I don‘t know if it‘s because I‘m coming out of a dark time, but your video almost moved me to tears at several points throughout. Besides the emotional impact, you inspired me to take more time with my photos, and patiently valuing the moment I am capturing. The photos speak to me on a deep level, I loved every single one. Thank you for making my day.
Mate, you have a new subscriber in Australia now. Thank you for this wonderful piece of work. Your portraits are stunning and I have quite an emotional response to them. They really reveal the beauty, character and vulnerability of your subjects - almost laid bare. I have a beautiful Chamonix, a stack of gorgeous lenses and plenty of film I haven't touched in years. Thanks to you, I am committed to making a few portraits this week. How about that! Cheers and thanks from Sydney, Dave
I’m always chuffed when there’s a new video from you, Bryan. Really enjoyed this one. Fantastic portraits. The quality of your content is second to none. 👌
i can't wait for the project Bryan! An idea came while hearing you talk about your love for cars and small towns and your own history; maybe the project could do something picture and narrative wise with both cars and horses together, and the people who take care of them and love them. Something to think about! Excited for the next one
I do the exact same work that you do in a completely different environment. It's inspiring to say the least. Often times what I will try, and I am not shy like you, is well, would you be willing to tell me something in or about this special place that you really care about/and or proud of. Not only does it get the focus off them, but gets them jazzed about their environment. We are so lucky to be capturing what is pretty much going to be lost. It sucks to miss a great one, but we honor consent. It's not about us. But you make a lot of deep friends along the way, and show America what we America are really about. Extremely diverse, welcoming, and caring. It's taken me decades to come close to truly understanding the ethos of our country.
Appreciate the reply. Soth would say, "think about a childhood memory" or something of that nature...I've never employed that strategy but I may add it in the future to see what it brings out.
Always watch your videos multiple times, they always leave an indelible mark on me. I just found you about two months ago, and I binge watched your channel to get caught up with the present. But I watched them in reverse order which was interesting. Now I wait just like the rest of the poor folks out there for the next one to arrive. But I am a quality over quantity guy, so I don't mind waiting at all. Approaching strangers is a hard thing for me too. It's been a few years, but for a time I would head down to the city to find willing people for street portraits. Nothing at all like the quality you produce, but it was fun and now I am thinking I may do it again. Thanks for being so authentic and producing videos that bring a real human story.
Backwards is interesting. So you’ve seen my work get progressively worse? Haha I’m happy that you enjoy that channel and I appreciate the support, Dennis!
@@BryanBirks Not sure why I watched in reverse, but it was interesting to see each video progress back to the beginning. I guess I was curious how each video was inspired by the previous one. It was fun nevertheless!
When I look at your portraits I want to know the people. The portraits are a little bit hypnotizing. Thank you for sharing your work and your thoughts behind the photos.
Keep doing what you're doing. I appreciate you speaking about the vulnerability and the challenges you have as a part of this - it's inspiring to me as I face many of the same ones myself. These portraits are stunning and you are just getting better and better.
I love how filmicly sharp the portrait at 10:50 is. Not digitally too crisp sharp but that sharp film look. So cinematic. Great video and some great thoughts on creative anxiety.
The beauty of film. I don't care what anyone says. Digital just amplifies everything. Dynamic range, colors, sharpness, etc. Just give me great. I don't need perfect.
This video is so captivating. I pressed play on your video, cranked the treadmill to about an 8.0 speed and started watching and running. Before I knew it, the video is over and so is my run. You completely stole all of my attention from everything else around me with your words and images. I’m so proud of you and how far you’ve come. You tell the best stories. Now I’m expecting at least 5 videos a week so I can get through these runs a bit easier. 🖤
You have a sincere quality toward your work how you approach people and the way you photograph them. There’s a subtitle quality that makes me feel I’m not alone with my own life and my thoughts.
The last video made up for quite a bit of “dead” months with subscribers but I’ve been patient thus far and will continue to be. Happy to have ya here!
@@BryanBirks I’m sure people will come as long as the quality is there. Also the last video hit every mark of a great video plus the thumbnail was amazing. I think people really want to discover smaller photographers.
Hey Brian, came across you channel just this week and its so so good. Love your video and the story behind what you are talking about. The portraits in this video are stunning. Love the one of Jessie with his back to the camera....just stunning. Please keep sharing and putting your work in front of us as its truly inspiring. Can't wait to see some more. Cheers Marc from New Zealand.
Beautiful work, I'm a portrait guy for the most and I'd be jumping with joy if I'd taken some of those shots. Thanks for sharing and your hard work, a great video as always. If only all UA-cam channels were as good as yours. Cheers
Thanks, sir. I think other channels have their strengths for sure. Sometimes I want to think. Other times I want a photo "popcorn movie". Cheers nonetheless 🍻
Simply incredible. I have to be honest, out of all the channels on UA-cam, I genuinely look forward to your videos. I love that you’re true to yourself no matter the consequence. Keep doing what you’re doing.
I actually like the portrait with the smile more than the first one. It's a genuine smile that for me adds to the character of the image. But either way, fantastic work with all of the photos and the video too!
This is so awsome Bryan. Thank you for posting so much of your thoughts surrounding everything that you do when shooting. It is brave of you and always so rewarding for us to take part in. The portrait with the boy and the young man might just be two of you best in my opinion. The presence in their faces are so intense and so There! I always look forward seeing your videos here and I love taking part in your progress. Once you get published I will be one of the first to buy your book!
Wow I just found your channel… Getting to hear your thought processes and being so candid with your struggles of social anxiety is both incredibly inspiring and relatable. And the story you are telling with your photography is just absolutely amazing. Beautiful portraits
Wow, I think the photos of Travis are some of my favourite I've seen from you! Love the last one too, very unique way to involve people who don't want to have their photo taken. Looking forward to the next one!
You make a valid point about having someone within the boundaries of the picture without necessarily interacting with the camera. It is still a portrait.
Yeah, it is hard to make an image like that and make it seem un-staged/authentic especially with 4x5 but it’s a challenge I’m looking forward to taking on.
@@BryanBirks It often takes a long time to become acquainted with working with a large format camera in a public place to the point where, in your own mind, the camera vanishes, like it were a conjuring trick.
Absolutely gorgeous portraits, Bryan, and a fantastic video. You’re putting together an amazing photo project, and I can’t wait for the book, exhibit, etc.
I"ve read about Richard Avedon's LF portraits. I have a view camera, two of them actually. The thought of photographing someone with them terrifies me because so much is involved in taking one photo. I take pictures of buildings. So it's fascinating seeing what you do and how you do it. I love grain elevators. So that's what drew me into your video. Will I ever start taking LF portraits? No. I'm content photographing your grain elevator, thank you. On a college campus, it's interesting seeing people working with film. Yet, everyone else is out there snapping photos with their phones. For me, I have technical reasons to keep using a LF camera. It's the movements. That attention to detail has vanished in the digital age when it can always be fixed in Photoshop. Can it really be fixed?
Bryan...I look so forward to your channel. Being a small towner myself I seem to find a lot of connection in the environment you make pictures. Plus your thought process is very helpful! Keep on keep on.
Hi, darling And I really like this frame at 08:53 This smile looks real, like many people in life You captured that moment! Yes, it may look strange, but it is very beautiful and honorable. Great job and great shots very atmospheric video
Thank you for sharing. I love the patient, quiet, and thoughtful vibes on this. It is a really important photographic practice to think about what youre doing. About what you want to be doing.
Wow ! Great video but the portrait of the guy , looking into the camera, that's capturing the emotion . The last image, everything has come together. Great idea, getting the owner into the image. Really great work, Bryan. KB
I just discovered your channel and your photography, and I find that your photography gets even better with your UA-cam videos. The explanation on how you got those photos, the stories you explain… it’s so relaxing and human that I love them. Really good job buddy, keep it up!
Such a beautiful video, this project is very interesting. Finding myself in many of these photos so thank you for making them. What a beautiful feeling to make a photo that so perfectly exemplifies what you want from a project.
Beautiful portraits, but also great commentary. Your project radiates authenticity and that makes it even more valuable to me. I hope you keep it up, it deserves to be pursued.
I love this video, message and the project. Honestly, i've subscribed and am going to watch it again after this comment. I've recently decided to begin a portrait project... I'm a newbie on an Xpro2... Trying to nail composition and lighting.... Thank you for this video!
Bryan! Your videos are sooooo good. It's so special to hear about your process and the stories behind your photographs. I'm not sure if it's the little tinklin'-tunes and violins that you add in, but I'm always left with tears in my eyes. I think it's not the violins as much as it is your portrayal of the phenomenon of being afraid to do something, and doing it anyways. The accomplishment of that and the reward of a beautiful portrait is moving. As always, thanks for sharing.
That is amazing to hear, Lily. I can really only feel the emotions you mention after months without watching. While editing I become desensitized in a way so I’m glad that the feelings resonate with you! 🖤
لا إلاه إلا الله
I imagine that if you had a small portfolio to show to the people you want to ask for a portrait that would increase the positive answers to the request. Love your portraits!
I agree. I actually showed Jesse multiple photos and portraits. He just wasn’t too keen on getting his own. Good idea though for sure.
Man... I saw this and thought, Chuck Palahniuk shoots portraits? And the thumbnail lead me to believe that he's quite good at it!
Ha he would be quite the artist if he could do both!
@@BryanBirks Your photograph is so powerfully iconic, that an entire film could be written around it.
Travis #2 with the smile is the best. That smile that says "I have a secret."
You Sir are a Master...I believe books will be written about you, stories will be told, your journey and the way you tell it have struck a cord with me...FYI I also live in IL and a small farm town...and does it ever have some photographic scenes to offer...VERY VERY inspired by you! Thank you for being you. You Sir are my favorite visual/audio story teller. Thx
Bryan I haven't commented for a while (didn't want to be annoying saying the same thing all the time). But I just have to say this old lady really finds your videos, your thoughts, and your discussions very real and so worthwhile. Thank you for sharing all of what you share.
Really enjoyed this. Been watching photo videos all day. This was the best. Making an “average” person beautiful…to make people realize that they are in-fact… beautiful. I loved it.
Thanks so much. 🖤
I love that first portrait of the young man smoking and sitting on the tailgate. The shot with his back to you, awesome. I really appreciate your work and the overall asthetic and pacing of the videos. Thanks
Thank you, Peter!
The portrait of him looking off into the distance isn’t just a beautiful portrait but there’s feeling in his face. You look at that and get a sense of how his day’s been, what’s on his mind. That’s something I aspire to with my own image making, great job.
I wish I could say that I did something special in anyway but I guess all I really did was be there in that moment, and get lucky to a certain degree (a very high degree), but again, that is more than most people are willing to do. Just try to get in those moments, Robbie. 🍻
beautiful photos👏🏼
You are the only photographer I follow where the length of the videos are always far too short. You are inspiring, captivating and your passion is contagious. Please don't stop dude!
Can’t stop. Won’t stop. Video length is tough. I try to make it long enough to get a singular point across but short enough where it’s not boring. But when I’m editing, I think everything that I’m saying is boring so it’s nice to hear that it really isn’t. 😂
I love the pace of your storytelling. Beautiful portraits! Just beautiful.
12:07 simply amazing. Love the narration, there’s a lot to take away. Just keeps getting better and better!
That photo took me an ungodly time to edit. I didn’t even know what colors were by the end of it. Haha I’m happy it turned out decent 😂
your storytelling layered with a background ambient music is so spot on, that it feels like you’re reading a book.
congrats, keep up the good work !
Thank you. Again, sometimes I feel like I am rambling but I am happy that it resonates.
Driving 40 minutes 3 times is serious dedication and it was well worth it!! Honestly having him with his back to the camera turned out better than I think having him facing the camera would have. It really makes this seem more like a still from a movie and less like a portrait
40 minutes in the Midwest is chump change. Haha I am really excited about the opportunities that this new way of posing will bring. Just want to do my best to keep it authentic and not staged though. Might be tough.
I have been watching this series for a long time. This is easily one of my favorites. The photo of Jesse looking into the back of his truck, not facing you is amazing. Even without seeing his face, he looks contemplative. You don't always need the eyes or face to get emotive images. Looking forward to seeing all of these together in a collection.
Thank you, Mike. Means a lot!
Bryan…I stopped this video at 6:45 in to say how much I enjoy your work. It’s great to see how your work is evolving. I know you know this but don’t get down if you don’t take a shot. If it doesn’t feel right…there’s a reason. -robb
Appreciate the kind words. 🖤
You’re an artist man, absolutely stunning work and determination.
Thank you, Nick. Means a lot my man. ✌🏻
Bryan, I don't comment on youtube videos a lot but I just wanted you know know that you're my favourite youtuber. The brutal honesty you share about your process rings so true. I honestly don't understand why you don't have more subscribers, your videos bring me joy. Well done sir.
Happy to hear that! Glad you get something out of them. Subscribers will come. I envy some that have more but then I think about the negatives that will come along with that so I can wait patiently for that day.
I really enjoyed this and I have no idea about making portraits as I am a landscape photographer but I always involve a human element somewhere. I like how you approach people. I generally rake a small portfolio or use my iPhone to show ppl my website. I use 8 x10 primarily but for quick portraits of my homelands and ppl I use my ancient iPhone and get their email mails or address and mail the results as soon as I can. Ppl really appreciate that. I do very quick images before they get into their "poses". Sometimes I will stop at rest stops and ask if I can photograph a group or family and they always says yes. When out in the field. I just wave at ppl passing by and they soon come over and ask about the " strange" camera and ask why I use it. I often let them see the image on the ground glass and that awes many. Ppl are very happy to talk about their lands.
This is what photography is all about, totally authentic and really inspiring work. Stunning portraits that capture the subjects perfectly and make the viewer feel as if they've know them for years.
That’s a great thing to hear, Chris. Truly. That’s all I really want out of the portraits.
@@BryanBirks you’re very welcome, always look forward to your films 👍📷👍
Man, each one of those shots got more and more stunning. You must have an incredible body of work for this project so far, I can't wait to see your book!
The photos come more slowly these days but the results are much better most of the time. It’s just about finding the subjects…that takes a bit. I appreciate the support!
incredible photographs! I'm so glad you went back to get that blue truck, very much worth it.
Thank you, Kirk!
Sometimes the process of kicking yourself over not doing what you need to do, is what's needed to build up the courage and determination to just do it when the chance comes again.
You have a great way of telling the story around the photos, which makes the video so much more interesting than many photography youtubers.
I’m happy that you think that. Sometimes I talk and it feels like I’m rambling or going on too long. Nice to know it’s not garbage commentary coming out of my mouth. 😂
@@BryanBirks This video even made me question what I thought was a basic requirement to make a video about photography: filming the photographer when s/he is taking the photo. You showed that with good narration and some B-roll, it can be even better without seeing the photographer in action. This inspired me and is somehting I'm going to take with me when I make my own videos. Keep up the great work!
4:15 - Oh yeah! This helps a lot! Until the excitement filled us, without thinking about anything, do our job. It's so familiar 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻🔥🔥
Your portraits are quite something. Wonderful.
Appreciate the comment. Glad you enjoy them!
Incredible images Bryan
Thank you so much, Willem.
Amazing last portrait with his back to the camera, loved them all but this stood out, watched this at 6,20am, set me up for the day. Cheers
Appreciate it, John! 🍻
Your storytelling gives your already beautiful work a level of impact that is immeasurable. It's this sort of intangible element that makes your videos a true pleasure to watch. Thank you for sharing your work and your experiences.
The thumbnail (portrait of Travis) for this video really drew me in, Bryan. I just got a 4x5 monorail cam myself and to learn, I've been soaking up whatever LF videos I can find on UA-cam and reading as much as I can. The pace of this video and the quality of the photos makes me optimistic for the journey ahead. Just know your stories and your shots have impact.
This is a really beautiful and considerate piece of work, and I love your photos. The last with the man looking into the truck being a favourite. Your work is so careful and beautiful - thank you for sharing.
Thank you, Claire!
amazing photos, Bryan. We can all see your progression in not just the technical execution, but the feelings your photos are capturing. Awesome work.
Thank you, Victor. Your support is always appreciated!
Beautiful portraits. "Nothing of me is original ..." It really resonated with me.
I love your reasoning behind making these photos, very pure and true. I wonder when they see these photos of themselves if it’s like a new perspective or light. Like the one man joking about being a model, has he ever seen himself that way? Anyway, I love your videos, your work ❤
Thank you kindly 🖤
Thank you for sharing your sincere lovely energy, makes me want to go out more and capture those "lost" portraites ..
You are so welcome, Natalya!
This video just singlehandedly pulled me out of a creative hole. It is an extremely moving watch, the way you talk, the stories connected with the creation of these photos, the music and of course the photos themselves hit a deep spot. I don‘t know if it‘s because I‘m coming out of a dark time, but your video almost moved me to tears at several points throughout. Besides the emotional impact, you inspired me to take more time with my photos, and patiently valuing the moment I am capturing. The photos speak to me on a deep level, I loved every single one. Thank you for making my day.
Wow, thank you for the thoughtful comment. Means a lot to hear that!
Mate, you have a new subscriber in Australia now. Thank you for this wonderful piece of work. Your portraits are stunning and I have quite an emotional response to them. They really reveal the beauty, character and vulnerability of your subjects - almost laid bare. I have a beautiful Chamonix, a stack of gorgeous lenses and plenty of film I haven't touched in years. Thanks to you, I am committed to making a few portraits this week. How about that! Cheers and thanks from Sydney, Dave
Wonderful to hear, Dave!
I’m always chuffed when there’s a new video from you, Bryan. Really enjoyed this one. Fantastic portraits. The quality of your content is second to none. 👌
Thank you kindly, Marcus. Glad you enjoy!
i can't wait for the project Bryan! An idea came while hearing you talk about your love for cars and small towns and your own history; maybe the project could do something picture and narrative wise with both cars and horses together, and the people who take care of them and love them. Something to think about! Excited for the next one
Ah, but horses on 4x5? I would die. Haha thanks for always supporting me, Jay!
I do the exact same work that you do in a completely different environment. It's inspiring to say the least. Often times what I will try, and I am not shy like you, is well, would you be willing to tell me something in or about this special place that you really care about/and or proud of. Not only does it get the focus off them, but gets them jazzed about their environment. We are so lucky to be capturing what is pretty much going to be lost. It sucks to miss a great one, but we honor consent. It's not about us. But you make a lot of deep friends along the way, and show America what we America are really about. Extremely diverse, welcoming, and caring. It's taken me decades to come close to truly understanding the ethos of our country.
Appreciate the reply. Soth would say, "think about a childhood memory" or something of that nature...I've never employed that strategy but I may add it in the future to see what it brings out.
Always watch your videos multiple times, they always leave an indelible mark on me. I just found you about two months ago, and I binge watched your channel to get caught up with the present. But I watched them in reverse order which was interesting. Now I wait just like the rest of the poor folks out there for the next one to arrive. But I am a quality over quantity guy, so I don't mind waiting at all. Approaching strangers is a hard thing for me too. It's been a few years, but for a time I would head down to the city to find willing people for street portraits. Nothing at all like the quality you produce, but it was fun and now I am thinking I may do it again. Thanks for being so authentic and producing videos that bring a real human story.
Backwards is interesting. So you’ve seen my work get progressively worse? Haha I’m happy that you enjoy that channel and I appreciate the support, Dennis!
@@BryanBirks Not sure why I watched in reverse, but it was interesting to see each video progress back to the beginning. I guess I was curious how each video was inspired by the previous one. It was fun nevertheless!
When I look at your portraits I want to know the people. The portraits are a little bit hypnotizing. Thank you for sharing your work and your thoughts behind the photos.
That’s a fantastic compliment. Really the best one I could get. Thanks so much, Stephen 🖤
Fantastic man! Now this is inspiring. I've been thinking about portraits with my new (old) Hasselblad.
These are photos are wonderful. Waiting for the book.
Thanks, Ted! Book is always on my mind. Just don’t want to rush it. ✌🏻
Keep doing what you're doing. I appreciate you speaking about the vulnerability and the challenges you have as a part of this - it's inspiring to me as I face many of the same ones myself. These portraits are stunning and you are just getting better and better.
Thanks for the kind words. Glad it could help in some way.
I love how filmicly sharp the portrait at 10:50 is. Not digitally too crisp sharp but that sharp film look. So cinematic. Great video and some great thoughts on creative anxiety.
The beauty of film. I don't care what anyone says. Digital just amplifies everything. Dynamic range, colors, sharpness, etc. Just give me great. I don't need perfect.
@@BryanBirks So with you!!
Exquisite, story and pictures.
Thank you, sir. Cheers.
This video is so captivating. I pressed play on your video, cranked the treadmill to about an 8.0 speed and started watching and running. Before I knew it, the video is over and so is my run. You completely stole all of my attention from everything else around me with your words and images. I’m so proud of you and how far you’ve come. You tell the best stories. Now I’m expecting at least 5 videos a week so I can get through these runs a bit easier. 🖤
I love you so much, sweets! "Cranked the treadmill to 8.0..." okay Usain Bolt. 😉
You have a sincere quality toward your work how you approach people and the way you photograph them. There’s a subtitle quality that makes me feel I’m not alone with my own life and my thoughts.
Thank you for making actual photography content. Intensely enjoyable honest and fun to watch.
Glad you enjoy it! Thank you, kindly.
Another great video ... stunning portraits yet again ... Thank you
You deserve way more subscribers. Quality content, relaxing atmosphere and you inspire me to shoot more film. I’m glad i found you!
The last video made up for quite a bit of “dead” months with subscribers but I’ve been patient thus far and will continue to be. Happy to have ya here!
@@BryanBirks I’m sure people will come as long as the quality is there. Also the last video hit every mark of a great video plus the thumbnail was amazing. I think people really want to discover smaller photographers.
your work just keeps getting better and better
Thank you, Ariyah. I’m sure I’ll be stagnant for a couple of months after these images. It’s just the way things go. Haha
Hey Brian, came across you channel just this week and its so so good. Love your video and the story behind what you are talking about. The portraits in this video are stunning. Love the one of Jessie with his back to the camera....just stunning. Please keep sharing and putting your work in front of us as its truly inspiring. Can't wait to see some more. Cheers Marc from New Zealand.
Thank you, Marc. Really appreciate that. Glad you enjoyed it!
smashed it again. once the project is complete would love to see all the selected images together or in a show.
A show is a dream. I guess we will see.
Great portraits! Print one and put it on your wall!
There’s a 30x40 of Travis on his tailgate in my living room. Haha
Beautiful work, I'm a portrait guy for the most and I'd be jumping with joy if I'd taken some of those shots. Thanks for sharing and your hard work, a great video as always. If only all UA-cam channels were as good as yours. Cheers
Thanks, sir. I think other channels have their strengths for sure. Sometimes I want to think. Other times I want a photo "popcorn movie". Cheers nonetheless 🍻
Simply incredible. I have to be honest, out of all the channels on UA-cam, I genuinely look forward to your videos. I love that you’re true to yourself no matter the consequence. Keep doing what you’re doing.
Thank you, Mez. Glad that you enjoy it. Thanks for the support!
Really nice video with the complimentary music. Short enough to watch before bed ;)
beautiful work
Legit one of my favorite UA-cam channels! And not because we have the same name lol. Awesome portraits!
Same name is just a bonus. Thank you, Bryan!
Really nice work.
Wonderful portraits. Great video. Thank you.
Thanks for watching, Alan.
I actually like the portrait with the smile more than the first one. It's a genuine smile that for me adds to the character of the image. But either way, fantastic work with all of the photos and the video too!
I may have been a bit harsh with that one. Looking back it isn't bad, just not the mood I was going for at least. Appreciate the kind words!
Thank you Bryan for saving my sanity, and your gift of taking us away to a serene calm space!
Haha you are welcome! Anytime. Glad you enjoyed it.
12:05 wowwwww, that's going to be the cover of your book isn't it? Keep going Bryan, you're on a hell of a roll!
Thank you! Not sure if the book will have a cover image but could be a good first image in the actual sequence? We shall see!
This is so awsome Bryan.
Thank you for posting so much of your thoughts surrounding everything that you do when shooting. It is brave of you and always so rewarding for us to take part in.
The portrait with the boy and the young man might just be two of you best in my opinion.
The presence in their faces are so intense and so There!
I always look forward seeing your videos here and I love taking part in your progress.
Once you get published I will be one of the first to buy your book!
I appreciate that more than you know, Alexander. A lot of doubt has creeped in since the beginning but comments like these help out a bunch!
Wow I just found your channel… Getting to hear your thought processes and being so candid with your struggles of social anxiety is both incredibly inspiring and relatable. And the story you are telling with your photography is just absolutely amazing. Beautiful portraits
Thanks, Ethan. Glad you enjoyed!
Wow, I think the photos of Travis are some of my favourite I've seen from you! Love the last one too, very unique way to involve people who don't want to have their photo taken. Looking forward to the next one!
Thank you, sir!
You make a valid point about having someone within the boundaries of the picture without necessarily interacting with the camera. It is still a portrait.
Yeah, it is hard to make an image like that and make it seem un-staged/authentic especially with 4x5 but it’s a challenge I’m looking forward to taking on.
@@BryanBirks It often takes a long time to become acquainted with working with a large format camera in a public place to the point where, in your own mind, the camera vanishes, like it were a conjuring trick.
You should be very proud, nice wor and always a pleasure to watch. do you return with prints to the people you meet and photographs
Absolutely gorgeous portraits, Bryan, and a fantastic video. You’re putting together an amazing photo project, and I can’t wait for the book, exhibit, etc.
Another great video man. There won't ever be a video of yours I won't watch and enjoy. Thank you as always
Thanks, Elliot! I'll try not to disappoint. Haha
I"ve read about Richard Avedon's LF portraits. I have a view camera, two of them actually. The thought of photographing someone with them terrifies me because so much is involved in taking one photo. I take pictures of buildings. So it's fascinating seeing what you do and how you do it. I love grain elevators. So that's what drew me into your video. Will I ever start taking LF portraits? No. I'm content photographing your grain elevator, thank you. On a college campus, it's interesting seeing people working with film. Yet, everyone else is out there snapping photos with their phones. For me, I have technical reasons to keep using a LF camera. It's the movements. That attention to detail has vanished in the digital age when it can always be fixed in Photoshop. Can it really be fixed?
Cool quote at the beginning of the video!
Gosh, Bryan. Beautiful pictures. Super simple, honest, beautiful colour photography. Love your channel. Thanks for your videos.
Thanks for watching, Paul. And for the kind words. Simple and beautiful are wonderful compliments.
What a great way to start the day. Thank you for making these videos.
Thank you for watching 🍻
Wow, thanks for share your work, thanks for the timing speaking very clear, great video and wonderfull photography, Thanks.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Really into your recent videos mate, keep them coming. Love this.
Thank you very much, Mike!
Beautiful portraits and a great story - and I really like the project
Love your work so much Bryan! Thats all i have to say. Love your work so much!
Thank you, Alexander!
Wonderful video, Bryan. Thank you!
Appreciate you, Matt!
I appreciate your videos a lot man.
I appreciate your comment a lot, Eric 🍻
Bryan...I look so forward to your channel. Being a small towner myself I seem to find a lot of connection in the environment you make pictures. Plus your thought process is very helpful! Keep on keep on.
Appreciate it, James. Small towns are my jam. Absolutely love making work in all of them.
Hi, darling
And I really like this frame at 08:53
This smile looks real, like many people in life
You captured that moment! Yes, it may look strange, but it is very beautiful and honorable.
Great job and great shots
very atmospheric video
I may have been a bit curt with my initial thoughts. It’s a fine portrait, just not the exact mood I’m going for. Appreciate the kind words!
Thank you for sharing. I love the patient, quiet, and thoughtful vibes on this. It is a really important photographic practice to think about what youre doing. About what you want to be doing.
Thanks, RJ 🖤
Wow ! Great video but the portrait of the guy , looking into the camera, that's capturing the emotion . The last image, everything has come together. Great idea, getting the owner into the image. Really great work, Bryan. KB
Thanks, Ken. The last one really got me thinking about future portraits. A true stepping stone possibly. Thanks for the comment!
Hey Bryan. Great work of yours! Keep going man. I mean it. Nice Vids and great Photos. Honest and direct.
I appreciate that!
Well done Bryan, you really capture the essence of the American way of life.
Happy to hear that. Thank you.
Great work Bryan, love all the photos, and the one with a cigerette is my most favorite
Thank you kindly, Rob 🖤
so great mate! beautiful portraits and beautiful message to the video. has immediately inspired me to go out and take more photos. Thank you
Amazing to hear. Thanks, Christopher 🖤
You are amazing. Congrats for your work!!!
Thank you so much!
Wow, these are fantastic.
I just discovered your channel and your photography, and I find that your photography gets even better with your UA-cam videos. The explanation on how you got those photos, the stories you explain… it’s so relaxing and human that I love them. Really good job buddy, keep it up!
Thank you, Alex. I always tell people that I feel like I’m rambling but it’s nice to hear that a lot of people connect with it. I shall continue!
Another great video. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching! 🍻
Gorgeous gorgeous work Bryan. Greetings from Greece.
Thank you, sir! Greece is a bucket list destination.
Such a beautiful video, this project is very interesting. Finding myself in many of these photos so thank you for making them. What a beautiful feeling to make a photo that so perfectly exemplifies what you want from a project.
Thank you, Cody!
The narration is superb… inspiring…
Appreciate ya!
Beautiful portraits, but also great commentary. Your project radiates authenticity and that makes it even more valuable to me. I hope you keep it up, it deserves to be pursued.
Thank you, Antonio. Nice to here such things 🖤
I love this video, message and the project. Honestly, i've subscribed and am going to watch it again after this comment. I've recently decided to begin a portrait project... I'm a newbie on an Xpro2... Trying to nail composition and lighting.... Thank you for this video!
Get out there and kill it 👊🏻