Norman Reedus--Art Is as Art Does

For some photographers, the phrase “run and gun” has a negative connotation, but when you’re Norman Reedus, that description takes on a much preferred meaning, one that is accurate to his style and also a compliment to his ability to “sense a moment.”  Reedus , most recognized for his acting work on the television series, “The Walking Dead” and “Ride with Norman Reedus,” is first and always an artist: a sculptor, a director, an accomplished photographer, and author of the photo book, “The Sun’s Coming Up… Like a Big Bald Head.”

With the travel demands of working on films and television, Reedus’s photography becomes a way to engage with his locations and document his adventures but, through the eyes of an artist, his work is more than just famous locales and behind the scenes fun. He brings a personal vision, humorous and dark, to images he captures and does so with an experimenter’s touch, using a variety of cameras and styles. We talk with Reedus about his start in photography, his stylistic approaches, gear choices, and what he has learned from his time in front of a camera that helps with his work behind one. However, with a guest like Reedus—generous with his time and tales—you let the conversation flow, and we also discuss his series “Ride,” the influence of Laurie Anderson, fan selfies, Roger Ballen, horror films, Oxfam, and even Pee Wee Herman.

While recording this episode, the Tom Waits line, “I like beautiful melodies telling me terrible things,” kept popping into my head. I’m not sure this line best reflects Reedus’s work, but I am sure there is a Tom Waits line that does. This episode was a real treat for us at the B&H Photography Podcast, and we hope you feel the same in the listening. 

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Guest: Norman Reedus