Mister Geez Discusses the power of childlike wonder in street photography

Gerald Marie-Nelly, affectionately known as Mister Geez, is the featured photographer in the March 2024 issue of Street Photography Magazine. During our conversation in this episode he invites us into his world of visual storytelling.

Mister Geez’s photographic journey is a combination of personal growth and artistic discovery. His transition from the sun-kissed shores of Martinique to the bustling streets of London is a story that resonates with anyone who has ever dared to dream beyond their horizon. Gerard opens up about finding solace in photography after the loss of his mother. It is a reminder of the healing power of art.

His book “Inner Child Playground” is more than just a collection of images; it’s an invitation to view London through the fresh eyes of a child. Street Photography Magazine subscribers can an excerpt of his book in the December 2023 issue.

What sets Mister Geez apart is not just his exceptional eye for detail but his commitment to community. He shares his craft by teaching photography to the homeless, helping them find their own voice through the language of imagery.

Gerard also pays homage to the greats who have shaped his vision. He expresses admiration for documentary photography icons like Sebastião Salgado and Eugene Smith, whose works have influenced his approach to capturing reality.

He dives deep into the meticulous process of curating a body of work for publication. Selecting and sequencing photos is a delicate dance that can make or break a narrative. During our conversation Gerard discusses his technique of using inexpensive prints to sort, compare and sequence photos for publication.

Our conversation underscores the tangible joy of physical prints, the intricacies of layout design, and the struggle with technical dilemmas like color casts in printing. Gerard’s story is a reminder of the tactile relationship between photographer and photograph, in an age dominated by digital.

Links from the show

• Mr Geez Website
• Instagram
• YouTube