“Hit the store, I can get 'em both, I don't wanna choose
And I'm quick, cut a person off, so don't get comfortable, look
I don't dance now, I make money moves”
Even before my trip to New York, there was a WishList of models that I wanted to work with. Of course, I did not get to work with all of them. Some of the names on the list were pretty much just wishful thinking, but let me tell you about this guy I almost fought. Okay, we didn’t almost fight; but I wanted to fight him. We never even met in person. I might be exaggerating just a little bit. And if you can’t already tell, this is going to be a rant (with a poppin’ ending).
For the sake of you not completely minding my business, fake names will be used to protect persons’ identities. I can’t afford to have my “Barbz” go after Cardi. (I hope y’all caught that reference.)
There was one model in particular that I really wanted to work with, so I put on my professional cap and sent her an email. She responded; and I was ecstatic. I told her what I was interested in working with her and showed her what I looking to do. After that small exchange, Molly forwarded me to her manager Pete (because Pete seems like the name of someone that would annoy you). Knowing that Molly was a pretty high profile model; I told Pete that I was either willing to test with her or pay her rate for an hour or so.
Here’s where I felt as though Pete crossed a line with me. Pete told me:
“We do not want to waste anyone's time.”
“…considering we will not receive tear sheets, money, or great images.”
“Your work isn't bad. You should consider serving an apprenticeship with a great photographer in NY.”
EXCUSE YOU, SIR?
Your mum… (In my British accent.)
So, you know I had to clap back. I did my best to remain professional and I told sir; “I must, however, disagree with you, because she would have received great images. I’ve come to see that being a great photographer in NY is really based on a name or social following, of which I don't have either as yet … I will use this as a learning/growing opportunity.”
Trust me that I’ve researched “great” photographers and studied their work. The biggest differences between them and me are access to crazy wardrobe and a few ten thousand followers (LOL). However, work quality-wise, I can definitely keep up. Brother man, sir had no idea how turnt he made me, but I really do try to use any type of situation like this as fuel to become a better artist.
Fast forward a few weeks into my trip and I received a confirmation email from an agency I had reached out to. My work fit the bill and they sent me a list with a few models that I could select from to photograph. Who you think was on the list? MOLLY! I’ll take Molly for $300, Alex. We met up two days later and it was a great experience. The shoot was amazing and she loved the images, as did her agency. I guess Pete isn’t as good of a judge of photography as he thought. (Your mum…)
I love this thing called photography and all the experiences that it comes with.
*Cues Bodak Yellow by Cardi B*
