Friday, November 28, 2008

Paul Newman


Several years ago(back in the 90's) when I was running around the country chasing race cars and stars. I had the privilege to meet all of my boyhood hero's and some really big name folks.
One of those people was Paul Newman. I must say he was not the most outgoing person I ever met and in fact I had quite a time trying to get him to sit for me. He had me follow him to three states until we finally met in Milwaukee .
It was a really strange photo shoot.I guess he knew I was not one of those slick Hollywood paparazzi types. I was polite and called him Mr. Newman which I guess gave me away . I had no army of assistants just me and him.
So here I was with one of the biggest stars in the world .My assignment was to get a portrait of him for a story RACER magazine was doing about how Racing has changed since 1969. Mr Newman had done a movie called winning where he played a character who had won the 1969 Indy 500. The portrait needed to look rough like we were in a garage the "grizzled veteran" type of thing, dramatic light you get it.
I had everything scouted and figured out and when we were ready to shoot he says" no don't like this lets go into my motor home" , which was really a mansion on wheels. Hmmm ,OK in a bus, no light what do I do now?? I always pride myself with being prepared .In photography most things never go as planned so to cover your "butt" and be prepared for the unexpected is par for the course.
To say the least I was surprised but not shocked maybe Mr Newman was challenging me, pushing me to now be creative under his terms."OK here you go take your shots" nothing like a little pressure. This was before digital photography so like many "so called" photographers today you had to know something.
"Mr Newman it is kinda dark in here can I turn on a light"??" No" he said ."If you don't mind Sir may I open one of these blinds a bit just for a little light"? "Just a little" he said.
With that I started to work with Paul Newman,how cool?? I said "I would like to work close with you eyes" Yea they all do,he said. Here I am moving this guy( a superstar of film) around ,posing , lighting and for a few minutes he worked with me. Hey do ya got it??he said," I got something"?? That's all ya get ,good luck,nice to meet ya.
I picked up my stuff shook his hand and before you knew it I was out the door. Ten minutes of my life I will never forget.

Racer magazine loved the photos !!

I"m posting this today because of a couple reasons first the year end tributes of folks who have passed will start and no doubt Paul Newman will be mentioned. Also it is the gift giving season and there is no one I can think of that has done more for people than Paul Newman. More important Paul Newman is a role model . People like him are few and far between. Celebrities today are measured by a much different standard. Traits like honesty ,integrity and helping your fellow man are not whats in fashion today.

I do not have the Images which were used for the story but I do have these out takes. I think he did like me?? Thanks Paul .

Friday, November 21, 2008

Postcards


I want to thank everyone who has responed to my postcards. They seem to be something that folks really like and i get so many nice comments about them.
One thing I want to make sure that everyone is aware that the postcard does have a value to it.What do I mean?? If you come to see me and you decide to book with me your postcard is worth $100 off any product or service . Including family portraits as well.
I thought this would be a nice way to say Thank you.
Please if you receive one of my cards and you think I may be the right photographer for you,give me a call. I would be happy to meet with you and talk about your special day!!