Finding the work of Geoff Butler gives us faith in social media. A lot of shit, often fairly, is thrown at Instagram and 'influencers'. But there is so much humanity and goodness to be found.

We don't know Geoff, but his portraits stopped us dead. Somehow we knew we had so much in common. The way he shows men chimed with us:

• The beauty of real life and imperfect, vulnerable men. 
• Diverse, creative stories, whether written, or simply an image.

Geoff is based in Toronto and he takes portraits of strangers in situ. He signs them off simply "Thank you [insert name]". No back story, no preconceptions or judgement. Just a human being caught as they are.

We find ourselves wondering: What are their stories? Are they happy? Homeless? Rich? Poor? Drunk? Hungry? Kids? Loss? Winning? Losing? Does it matter?

We asked Geoff to tell you a bit about himself:

"In 2013, I was working as a creative director and I was miserable: I didn’t feel any connection to the work, my health was suffering and I was ignoring my marriage. So I resigned.

My career had always kept me close to photographers and filmmakers. I love sets, I love crews and I love the singularity of a great photograph; I needed to find that connection again. My wife went back to teaching and I became a stay-at-home dad to our two daughters.

I think photography is a way for me to return to honest transactions. I’m attracted to the speed, the simplicity and the connection. Most of the time I have just a few minutes with the people I meet. We share a few stories, and everyone is very gracious and curious. I always thank them and try to send the pictures.

The whole thing just feels good: I’m closer to the community (who now recognize me walking everywhere), each portrait is it’s own challenge, and second guessing never works.

These past few years have been a rebuild, one that has put me on a healthier path. 

You can see my work at gbutler.co, and I’m based in Toronto, Canada."

Do follow him on Instagram @geoffreybutler Enjoy our selection of his work.

Thank you Andre.

Thank you Loco.

Thank you [name withheld].

Thank you Carl.

Thank you Gov'nor.

Thank you Charles.

Thank you BeerHunter.

Thank you Ramon.

Thank you Peter.

 Thank you Cyrus.

Thank you [name withheld].

Thank you [name withheld].

Thank you Frank.Thank you Jake.