I am a film photographer and mixed-media storyteller based in Wilmington, Delaware. 

​

Why Analog, why Bird? Because the analog process of film harks back to the family portraits we grew up surrounded by, timeless pieces that are made with purpose and meant to last. 'Bird' is a childhood nickname that has followed be in my travels.

​

Painting was once my creative outlet but upon the passing of my friend Moneta Sleet I sought to continue the trail he was blazing from behind the lens and in the darkroom​. Now, In my home darkroom, I engage in the full, immersive process of analog film. Follow my process  here.

 

Most of my work is centered around my hometown but where I go my camera follows. I enjoy meeting my neighbors, the people of this city, especially those that are often avoided and overlooked. My projects tend to focus on stories of transformation and reentry, inspired by my own journey and my ongoing advocacy for criminal justice reform and housing for all. I am currently working on Project Return, using portraiture and mixed media to tell the stories of men and women returning home from prison.​​

​

​​ “Living analog in a digital world”- Moneta Sleet

​

Jesse 'Bird' Simmons

​

A special thanks to my patrons Huxley & Hiro for the brick and mortar space to display analog prints within the finest bookstore in Delaware.​​