The Joe Rogan Experience #1910 - Mark Laita
Dec 14, 2022
Mark Laita, an acclaimed photographer and documentarian, delves into the heartbreaking realities faced by marginalized individuals in American society. He discusses the emotional challenges of his work on 'Soft White Underbelly,' capturing raw stories of homelessness, addiction, and trauma. Laita shares insights on policing, empathy's transformative power, and the intertwined nature of creativity and self-destruction. He also navigates complex societal issues such as censorship on YouTube and the human mind's intricacies, offering a poignant look into resilience and understanding.
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Soft White Underbelly Origins
- Mark Laita, a photographer, transitioned from advertising to his YouTube show, Soft White Underbelly.
- He interviews people from various marginalized groups, including addicts, prostitutes, and gang members.
From Advertising to Realism
- Laita's photography career began in advertising but shifted towards realism.
- He worked on a project called "Created Equal," photographing diverse subcultures across the US.
The Need for Backstories
- Laita realized his photography needed backstories, leading him to incorporate interviews.
- He set up studios in Skid Row, focusing on the vulnerable population.