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This series from CNN, follows an alignment of what skate means. The cross over from skater to photographer is the norm in the community. This is especially relevant in Mike Belleme’s imagery. They know what is expected of them and how to document it. The key theme is familiarity. Going pro takes an infinite amount of time and dedication. This is the story of their lives. The images share no charade, but true reality. Their god is the streets.
The creator is the man behind the lens. How does he construct a tangible duo fitting form and fiction together? The skater and the photographer have to be on par with what they want the end result to be like. The narrative is vital. Each photograph comes alive with lightness, an effortless communicative insight into mastering the trick. Graceful, this is not. Not only are you snapping trigger shots to capture that immaculate wall grind by watching the guy conquer his 50th attempt of landing correctly, the platform of skate is about documenting the ins and outs of a lifestyle known only to those who live it.
Finding the right angles constitutes to a perspective only created by the manipulation the hole in the camera produces. Street skating is all about finding new avenues to discover an element to be exposed. The more challenging the trick, the more preparation for the injury, the more attractive the shot is. The adrenalin is spoiling energy through the photograph.
The series is about a sub-ego they experience when they skate. The alter ego of the sport is the reward they get. Freedom is their rebellion. It consumes their moments making them feel alive in their adrenalin. The black and white grainy development illustrates a nostalgic narrative. The mission is their true core. Well that, and making a great deal of noise alongside it.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.
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Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
