Photographer Captures Vegas’s Glitz and Grit
Behind the shimmering facade of Las Vegas casinos lies a more complex reality. One photographer has spent years documenting this contrast, revealing the human stories hidden within the gambling havens.
Early Exposure and Inspiration
For Michael Rababy, childhood trips to Las Vegas sparked an early awareness of the casino world. He recalled seeing new casinos constantly emerging, understanding even then the source of their immense wealth. This realization, he believes, is “probably why I don’t gamble.”
Documenting the Dichotomy
Later, in his 20s, Rababy began photographing Las Vegas, struck by the disparity between the casinos’ glamorous marketing and the everyday experiences within. The images he captured revealed something closer to an airport than a Monte Carlo night out.
A Hit-and-Run Approach
Photographing casinos required a stealthy approach. Rababy explains, “If I see security looking at me, or if other people are becoming aware of me, I’ll just move on.”
He also avoided photographing card games to prevent any suspicion of assisting in cheating.
Iconic Image: The Elvis Impersonator
Rababy considers his photograph of an Elvis impersonator as the iconic image from his Casinoland book. He notes, “It epitomises Vegas – not just because of Elvis, but also because of the lights and the colour.”
The image encapsulates the darker side of the casino experience, contrasting with its marketed image.
Capturing the Zone
Often, Rababy observed players entering a focused mental state at slot machines, oblivious to their surroundings. This allowed him to get close and capture candid moments. He recalls one incident where a man he photographed woke up and became aggressive, highlighting the risks involved.
Evolving Techniques
While he once used film cameras, Rababy now favors a small Fuji or even his phone for discreet photography. He acknowledges that people are more wary of photographers in the age of social media.
Artist’s Perspective
Someone once described Rababy’s work as “documenting the fall of an empire in the deserts of Nevada, but I’m doing it with a sense of humour and a light touch.”
Despite the serious themes, he approaches his subject matter with levity.
The House Always Wins
In 2023, commercial casinos in the U.S. generated a record $66.5 billion in revenue, according to the American Gaming Association, highlighting the immense scale of the industry Rababy documents. That revenue inevitably comes from somewhere.
Michael Rababy’s Background
Born: Ohio, 1969
Trained: Self-taught, drawing inspiration from art history, film, and museums during his time at the University of San Diego and while studying in Florence, Italy.
Influences: Henri Cartier-Bresson, Brassaï, Helen Levitt, Bill Owens, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Hunter S Thompson.
High point: “As a Pollyanna optimist, I have to believe my high point has yet to happen – but having Edward Snowden share an image I created with The Yes Men stands out.”
Low point: “To survive as an artist you have to accept a barrage of rejection and move on.”
Top tip: “Chuck Close noted that photography is one of the easiest art forms to learn but the hardest to find your voice. I recommend learning as much craft as you can, but at some point you have to look deep inside yourself to carve your path.”
Michael Rababy will be signing copies of Casinoland – Tired of Winning on 11 July at Arles photography festival.
