FRAMES

An introspective photographic practice by Maine-based documentary photographer Nick Gervin.

Nick Gervin 4/6/26 Nick Gervin 4/6/26

36 Frames: Episode 001

: WARNING - This article features graphic photographs and a video of deer being processed.

Hunters for the Hungry

Video:

Contact Sheets:

Notes:

The owner was really busy and he looked stressed. He allowed me to stay and photograph as long as I didn’t impede his work. The scene itself was a nightmare. Deer carcasses piled up, heads being severed, bone heaps, and the ground was slick with blood. The experience climaxed when a man, while holding a deer’s head, glanced up and delivered a shocking one liner.

“This is what we do to the Democrats.“

Frame #26: 1/250 sec at f/5.6 flash fired

Frame twenty six certainly is strong. It’s a bit difficult to look at. When I captured it, I noticed that the flash kind of reflected off of the eyes, and I knew immediately that it was going to be a great shot. Great. I remember thinking I can step back and get everything, (in-frame) but I told myself, no, leave it like this. Frame it like this. Kind of strange, but it works.

Frames twenty seven to frame thirty two. I asked one of the guys if I can step up into the back of the truck. He replies,

“I don’t care. Just don’t slip on the blood.”

I remember pausing for a beat, standing there, checking my meter, trying to figure out how to photograph the scene. It’s quite dark in there, so I figured I’d cover my bases, cover a few shots with flash, and a few without. But in the back of my mind, I couldn’t help but think, man, this is really surreal. I know that this food is going to go to help feed hungry people, but still. These were wonderful, beautiful animals, alive sentient beings. And it’s just strange.

Frame #34: 1/250 sec at f/8.0 flash fired

On my way out, I find the owner and thank him for his time. He takes off his glove, shakes my hand, seemingly surprised that I’m finished. As I’m packing up and getting the car. I start to drive out and I notice a giant bone heap, mostly ribcages. I immediately get out of the car and make three more frames. The whole scene is just bizarre, and I can’t help but wonder what type of critters come at night to gnaw at the bones.

-Nick G.

Video: Nick Gervin