The Artistry of Simplicity
Experience Brandon Ruffin’s profound visual journey, a renowned photographer celebrated for his evocative narratives surrounding the human experience. Brandon transcends traditional photography with the simplicity and precision of the Leica M11-D, allowing him to foster an unbroken connection with his subjects. The deliberate absence of a monitor on this powerful photographic tool eliminates distractions, encouraging an authentic and intentional approach to every shot, reminiscent of the analog experience.
Join Brandon as he captures the raw beauty of humanity, preserving each moment with reverence and integrity.
Photography is dependent on awareness, emotional connection, and intention – the M11-D pulls me back so closely to what first drew me to the Leica M series...it was that desire to slow down, to be more deeply connected to the artform, and to each moment, and to part of myself.
Brandon Ruffin
"The M11-D truly pushes me closer to the subject I’m photographing. Disengaging from the moment and reviewing images as I shoot has almost become part of my muscle memory – each time pulling me away from the subject and then requiring me to re-engage. Constantly breaking and then rebuilding that connection. The M11-D pleasantly breaks that habit and keeps an emotional connection with the subject in the moment. The level of intimacy built in that connection shows as a measure of authenticity in the final image."
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"The M11-D is a system that on the surface seems simplified and reductive – but that is truly what makes it amazing."
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"What was beautiful was when I finally accepted what felt like a limitation of the M11-D and embraced it as a refining element of discipline."
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"The camera provides all the power and precision of a modern day M-series rangefinder while injecting the intention in every frame reminiscent of the analog experience."
About Brandon Ruffin
Based in Oakland, California, Brandon Ruffin is a distinguished photographer, Web-3 futurist, award-winning filmmaker, and writer. Using photography as a visual diary, Brandon has spent over 17 years capturing the world through his Leica lens. Passionate about portraiture and reportage, Brandon focuses on stories that dissect humanity, especially within marginalized communities. He has contributed to publications like Rolling Stone and the New York Times and is a founding member of OAKSPC as well as Cameras and Coffee Club.
Find out more about Brandon's work on his official Instagram: @ruffdraft
