I have known Jim for over ten years. He had taken pictures of me behind the scenes of a radio show. I immediately liked his singularity, his discreet and attentive attitude, the eye always on the alert, seeking, without making any noise, the unexpected image, the ideal light, the right expression. And I liked his photos.
Later, I learned an astounding thing: for 15 years, every day, whether it’s snowing, rain or wind, and also when the weather is nice, of course, he gets on his bike, his shoulder strap, and goes in the streets of Liège, on the lookout for images that only he can see, with accuracy and kindness. Always in black and white, because for Jim postures, faces, smiles, gestures, sadness, count much more than red, green or blue. For 15 years he didn’t fail once, not a day is missing in this incredible collection of images.
When he gets home, he sorts, selects, to keep only around forty photos, which he keeps preciously, and sends them daily to a few friends, of whom I am happy to be a part.
I did the math, and I came to this barely believable result: Jim has taken more than 200,000 photos since he started this photo diary.
Sometimes he leaves Liège for a few days, travels to Eastern countries, or to Ireland, or to Italy. But he continues his diary with the same determination. Likewise, during the confinement that the virus imposed on the people of Liège, Jim continued to garner images which all reflect this strange period. There is never a vacation for the eye of a photographer.
When I see Jim’s photos, all done outdoors, photos of pedestrians in short (even if he is riding a bicycle), I understand that this is quite simply that, the talent of a photographer: knowing how to see.
It would be nice if this singular work, which is undoubtedly unique in the world, is recognized one day, even if Jim is not thirsty for recognition.
Patrice LECONTE
Patrice Leconte is a screenwriter, director and writer.
