Joseph Fuda: Retratos Cándidos de Cómicos como Hannibal Buress, Jim Jefferies y Maria Bamford Antes de Subir al Escenario

When your job description is feared more commonly than death, it’s hard to imagine the type of people it attracts. Stand-up comedy takes public speaking to the next level and demands the performers are funny, vulnerable, honest and full of energy. With just a microphone and a spotlight, they perform for hundreds of people and watch out for hecklers.

Photographer Joseph Fuda (@fudagraphy) captured the candid portraits of the world’s funniest comedians just before they went to work. These professionals don’t look nervous. Instead, it’s a vulnerability that Fuda expertly documents. The stark black and white photographs are artful and intimate—they’re less goofy and more soulful.

“The festival was hectic but exciting,” Fuda said. “I used a direct, unfiltered flash to give the effect of a mugshot or Weegee-style photo when the image is processed in black and white. Also, whenever possible, I tried to use a brick wall for that classic comedy feel.”

The series—which features Jim Jefferies, Maria Bamford y Hannibal Buress, among others—was taken at Just For Laughs comedy festivals in both Toronto and Montreal locations. The multi-city event also hits Vancouver, Canada and Sydney, Australia.

See more of Joseph Fuda’s photography at www.fudagraphy.com.

Want to add famous faces to your portfolio? Read our Cómo fotografiar a famosos: Guía práctica.