We all bleed red

Martin Schoeller has photographed U.S. presidents, Hollywood stars, and world-class athletes. In his personal projects, however, the acclaimed photographer turns his attention to people who rarely receive public recognition—people experiencing homelessness, formerly incarcerated individuals, drag queens, and Native Americans.

Having lived in the United States for more than thirty years, Schoeller has witnessed the deep political and social divisions shaping the country today. Using a portable photography setup, he creates an intimate space where people share their personal stories and lived experiences. During each portrait session, Schoeller becomes a patient, nonjudgmental listener and, for a brief moment, a trusted confidant.

Director Josephine Links accompanies Martin Schoeller as he works on these deeply personal projects. The documentary offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most celebrated photographers while introducing audiences to people whose lives reflect the social fault lines of contemporary America.

At its heart, the film conveys the humanistic message that has guided Schoeller’s work for decades, expressed through the words of one of his Native American subjects: “We all bleed red.”