Editorial Photography assignments challenge me to uncover something essential about a person in a very small window of time. Knowing that they are having their photo taken is both of benefit and detriment to this scenario. On one hand, the scenario itself acts as an ice breaker. I have a camera, you have a face…we should talk. On the other hand comes anxiety and nerves, vulnerability, rapport and all of the other factors that a camera and lens tend to insight on those towards whom it is focused. As a portrait photographer, my job is to get past that. To give. …and to do so with patience and my own sense of vulnerability. A portrait is only successful when an exchange occurs. My key role is to facilitate and foster that exchange.
In the case of this particular assignment for POST Magazine in Rochester, we got there quite quickly. In hindsight, it’s clear that my subjects were familiar with the exchange of vulnerability and were quick to both drop their guard and open their arms to me. They listened as well as they spoke; took interest by default; and displayed an incredible sense of humility. They are servants of their faith and their communities. They are a new generation of clergy that dare to broadcast spirituality during a time when people’s hearts and minds are more distracted then ever.
So…
…a Rabbi (Kelly Levy), a Minister (Katie O’Hern) and a Priest (Michael Costik) walk into my studio. Check out more in the latest issue of POST – available on Newsstands all around Western NY and via digital download through our POST App.
POST MAGAZINE PHOTOGRAPHY FEATURE : POST MAGAZINE : ROCHESTER, NY
