In this episode, John sits down with Leica ambassador photographer and storyteller Brandon “Ruff Draft” Ruffin, whose journey spans from working in law enforcement to becoming a leading voice in the world of photography and digital art. Together, they explore how Brandon’s background in law enforcement and sociology degree shaped his understanding of people, ethics, and narrative — and how those experiences now inform his artistic philosophy.
They discuss the evolution of photography in the age of AI and NFTs, the importance of sovereignty and ownership, and the difference between creating for attention versus creating from curiosity and truth. Brandon shares how discipline, observation, and presence form the foundation of his work, and how photography became his way of exploring identity, culture, and the human experience.
This episode is a deep exploration of art, philosophy, transformation and image-making as a tool for understanding the world.
