The Stories Behind the Photoss
People often ask me, what’s it like to photograph a celebrity? To which I reply, it’s the same as photographing anyone else, but you usually don’t have as much time. And they usually don’t call back to see the photos.
Even before I ever picked up a camera, I’ve always had a fondness and respect for portraiture. The idea that you can somehow distill the essence of a person, their stature, their personality, perhaps their vulnerability in a single image, is a challenging task, even if the subject is being “cooperative”. But complications invariably ensue, whether technical or otherwise. Subjects become restless, bored, distracted, self-conscious or (every photographer’s nightmare) just not into it.
Therefore, my rule of thumb, my approach, my philosophy, whatever you want to call it, has always been to try to create a relaxed atmosphere as conducive as possible to creativity and to work as quickly as possible.
It’s worth noting that over the years I’ve found the best shots I’ve gotten at innumerable sittings have invariably been those taken at either the very beginning of a shoot or at the very end. Why? I don’t know exactly. Whatever the reasons may be, the results speak for themselves. It’s often been that first shot or the last that has been the best. Although when you’re shooting celebrities at public events, you’re often lucky to get off a few decent shots at all, rarely an entire roll. Which makes the whole process that much more challenging, but also so satisfying when you manage to get something you’re pleased with.
In this section, you’ll find some recollections and information about the circumstances under which some of my favorite celebrity portraits were taken. So enjoy the stories and the photos. And if you have any questions, send me an email.
Bret Easton Ellis, October 1995