Poor Man's Blues

In poor taste?

Today, our favorite street-style photographer, Scott Schuman (a.k.a The Sartorialist) took the above photo of a homeless gentleman who Schuman described as "someone who, while down on his luck, hasn't lost his need to communicate and express himself through style." I just can't decide how I feel about the picture. On the one hand, I don't see anything wrong with Scott shooting this guy who seems to be trying to make the best out of his situation by demonstrating a unique sense of style and, in effect, maintaining a sense of self. Too, inspiration comes from a wide variety of sources, this situation being no exception. However, on the other hand I see it as being exploitative on Schuman's part by using this poor man's misfortune to benefit himself (whether it be through increased blog hits, to garner more attention and publicity, who knows). While I truly doubt (or at least hope) that isn't the case, I still think the photo was tasteless. Sorry, Scott.

The Sartorialist by Scott Schuman

The Sartorialist Flick Through from Susie Bubble on Vimeo.

GO OUT AND BUY THIS BOOK!!!

Booking The Sartorialist

Scott Shuman, better known as The Sartorialist, has just landed himself another title: author. In addition to being a photographer, blogger, tailor, and icon, Schuman is now an author! Under contract with Penguin, the photographer/blogger/tailor will publish a 500 page book featuring plenty of photos and a bit of writing as well. "I have received many offers in the past about doing a book, but I held back until I felt the right offer was at hand," says Schuman. "The main reason I feel so excited about this project is that Penguin will publish the book in paperback, and a special limited-edition 'bespoke' version simultaneously. This was very important to me because as a photographer I wanted a beautiful book to showcase my images - but I didn't want to do just another expensive coffee table book that would be too expensive for many of my readers. I think this creative method will be the best of both worlds."

It's good to know he's thinking about the little people...being that they kind of made his career and all. I'm definitely excited about this book. I'm going to start saving up now so that I can buy one of those limited-edition hardcovers...you know they're gonna be boss!

C'est vous que j'adore, Garance Doré!

Being the francophile that I am, the moment I stumbled upon the street-style blog Garance Doré it was naturally love at first sight. The Paris based site features some of the most stylish, beautiful, chic street photos that I have ever seen. These Schuman-esque style shots not only make me envious that almost every other person walking across the Champs de Mars looks like they just stumpled off a Lanvin runway, they also make me nostalgic and wishing that I could return to the City of Lights. So, instead of blissfully longing for a glass of Chardonnay, I'd rather just curl up into a croissant and cry.