Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Flying High


Joshua has this thing about him.............something about always being out in the midst of the action.  It's one of those amazing qualities that for me, makes him.....well, him.  He is all in.  There is NO halfway for Joshua and that goes for his athletics, life and his photography.  He's the kind of guy that you want to work with because he pushes you and the project to its limits.  Take a look at more of his work ~ you'll see what an asset he can be for "getting it."

www.joshuaweinfeld.com

Monday, September 17, 2012

Peanut Butter and Nir Adar............

So, I took the Summer off from blogging...........I'm sure it was okay for many of you, but for me - it was a little weird, but I thought I needed the break.  I'm back and ready to chat more.

Today, Jim Scherer is working on this fabulous project involving ice cream and today is the first time that I have FINALLY met Nir Adar in person.  Nir Adar, for those that do not know...........he is an incredible food stylist, he is known all around for his fabulous work and most specifically, he is the ice cream food styling KING!  I have hired him many times and unfortunately, we had never met till today.

Food stylists are such important members of the creative team and over the years I have truly come to respect these true professionals.  They bring their skills to each and every project and elevate everything they touch.  I feel very fortunate to know so many of these creative collaborators and am pleased to finally put a face to a name, now I can call Nir a friend and peer in the industry that we love so much.

Down the road, we'll show you some of the fantastic work, but for now - I can just say that PB might be included somewhere during the day.  Fun times!
www.jimscherer.com

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Puma......the speed of BOLT


Eric Kulin has had a great relationship over the years with Puma.  Fun stuff, great product.  Kind of like a win-win, we say.  He has a lot more to see, just not here on this post.  Take a look, when you have a chance.

www.erickulin.com

Friday, April 6, 2012

Simple elegance.














The quiet beauty of this piece that Jim Scherer worked on with Catrine Kelty is simply one project that I adore.  It also seems like such a fitting set of images to share on this day, Good Friday and the beginning of Passover.  So much beauty around us, if we take the time to see it.  I am going to be a glass half-full kind of person today and hopefully every day.  Enjoy!

www.jimscherer.com

Friday, March 23, 2012

Cookstove Films and Rodney Rascona on assignment


Cookstove Films

Rodney Rascona & Russ & Scott & Chuck & Kendall & Phil & Michael 
and 3 billion people breathing nasty smoke.

Rodney and his production team have been  busily working on an important film for the UN Foundation, Global Alliance for Clean Cook Stoves in Kenya.  Here was a recent post at the close of the first portion of the project.  Good work Team!

Back from Torbi, overnight in Marsabit.

Short post to start, but look for a lot more over the next two days. We’re back from the shoot in Torbi, overnighting in Marsabit on our way back to Nairobi. Though we obviously cannot post much here in Marsabit (super slow internet), I’ll get to it when we’re in Nairobi. But, the shoot was EXCELLENT, the experience unforgettable, and the people we met and who shared their lives with us bring new meaning to the word generous. More soon. And everyone on the the team sends their love and appreciation to their families, friends and all those who helped make this possible.

www.rascona.com

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Marketing.........oh yeah!

Marketing.

It is the bane of our existence in the photography/advertising/commercial industry, isn't it?  It is somewhat a necessary evil that I wish didn't need to exist, but I understand the push and pull of needing to get it done.  It is an important element, so people out there know about you, your capabilities, what you shoot, how you work and basically - YOU!

I can't say that years ago in High School or even College,  I ever thought that I would be marketing myself or others.  That simply wasn't one of the things that I got taught when I was in school, but quickly after getting out into the "real world" - I got it.

So, Joshua Weinfeld, one of my photographers is getting into the marketing rhythm, direct mail, e-mail blasts, personal emails, calls, follow-up and more........the wonderful myriad of ways to reach out to others and say, "look at me, look at me!!"  Although, in Joshua's case and in my humble opinion, all of my photographers ~ you SHOULD look at them.  They are AWESOME!  Capable photographers with skills that make you marvel and personalities that make the experiences enjoyable and quality people that make you glad that they are a part of your life.  Seriously.

I guess marketing CAN be a good thing, especially when it can introduce or re-introduce good people that are incredible photographers, that can help you create KILLER work!

Cheers!

www.joshuaweinfeld.com

Friday, February 17, 2012

Ironic LOVE.........everyday.

It's kind of ironic that I am posting this "Valentine's" imagery, because so much pressure is placed upon people around this "love" focused holiday, but truly - it's always been a holiday that I wish it didn't exist.  Why?  Because I really hope that everyone would show their love for each other every day - not just on this designated holiday.  Yes - it's nice for someone to ask you to "Be my Valentine", but wouldn't it be just as nice if we could simply remember to treat each other with kindness everyday and to remember to tell those around you, how much you care for them, all the time?

So, here I am, posting something about love.............. I LOVE my family.  I LOVE my dog.  I LOVE friends.  I LOVE photography.  I LOVE working with so many of you.  I LOVE being a part of the photography and advertising community.  I LOVE being from Boston.  I LOVE having fun.   Oh, and I LOVE chocolate!  So sue me?

Now it's your turn..........can you let your love show?

Thanks Jim for your inspirational imagery.
www.jimscherer.com

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

A special nook..........



The Butcher Shop............does it sound like a place that you'd want to eat?  Maybe not, but these images certainly make it look like just the place I'd like to have some lunch.  Yum.  Topher did a great job capturing the atmosphere of this quaint place.  Just the kind of place I think I may head to - right now!

www.tophercox.com

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

LOVE.


Jim Scherer and Beth Wickwire collaborated on the sweet stop-motion animation.  Take a moment to enjoy this treat!  Click on the pic and watch the youtube video.  Have fun!

www.jimscherer.com

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Dreaming of Winter, and all the thrills........
















Oh yes, I am sitting here working feverishly today. Mailing lists, postings, calls and estimates, but in the back of my head - I am still dreaming of Winter with snow and making some runs down a mountain full of speed and wind running past my ears. The sights and sounds that happen and the pounding of ones heart, as the thrill of tackling the mountain is eerily similar to a crazy production, filled with twists and turns where you don't know what is coming, but you are prepared for anything. It's the life of a thrill seeker or a producer, at least that is how I see it. It's kind of funny how a producer is ready to deal with anything that is thrown their way and actually, that's a lot like an athlete that is ready for anything that comes their way. I love the "fever pitch" and look forward to each opportunity to tackle the mountain and the work. Joshua is also a thrill seeker and actually - all of the photographers that I work with are a bit like that. We all have passions - that is what makes us special and able to take on the projects that come our way.

Thanks for all of the thrills ~ keep them coming!

www.joshuaweinfeld.com

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Food, Fashion and Fun!















This was an incredible collaborative shoot that Jim Scherer did with Dana Moscardelli and Catrine Kelty ~ two wonderfully creative stylists. It was a great project that everyone walked away from it simply blown away by what strong images had been created. It simply was an example of a "perfect storm" of the creative kind!

To see more:
http://scherer-food-photography.com/featured/

www.jimscherer.com

Friday, January 13, 2012

Palm Springs done and on to Mexico City.......
















Topher has had a busy few weeks.........starting here in Boston, moving on to Palm Springs and heading out shortly to Mexico City. The whole time that he is out and about, he is shooting much more than just the "requested" shots. This is just one of the amazing creative talents that Topher has, when he is working on a project........he sees everything in front of him and extends the project. Gets the most bang for the buck and looks for nuances that aren't always captured by others. The way he sees and perceives things is simply amazing. Stunning work, stunning person.

www.tophercox.com

Monday, January 9, 2012

What a way to begin the day AND the week...........
















There is just something exhilarating about seeing all of Joshua's adventures and posts. I love that he combines his many talents and passions. Can't we all be so lucky? Out on the path, on our own or with a friend, enjoying the outdoors and sights and taking it all in through your eyes and sharing it through your camera and your way of documenting and creating this incredible vision for others? Simply amazing. I marvel at his tenacity of planning and executing in multiple ways. Go get em' Joshua and enjoy your day!

www.joshuaweinfeld.com

Friday, January 6, 2012

3 Steps to Win the Client Over After the Initial Creative Call

Question: When an art producer makes the initial creative call to me, how can I indicate my creative compatibility and a willingness to collaborate on the project? Are there questions I should be asking, such as what their vision is, and then express mine?

When an art producer reaches out regarding a potential project, this is your time as a photographer to step up to the plate and shine. Obviously, there is already some form of interest in you, your capabilities and your voice. So you need to make an impression that puts you over the top as THE photographer for the project.

Step One: Prepare for the First Call

The initial phone call is the time to gather as much information as possible. You must:

  • Listen, take notes and think on your feet
  • Show your interest in the project, the client, the brand and the people that are involved
  • Make sure the conversation is interactive - listening is just as important as questioning
  • Ask purposeful questions
  • Pose some initial “potential” ideas or solutions

So what are the questions that you want to ask when you are on the initial phone conversation? Be sure to ask all the basic, yet important questions like:

  • What is your vision?
  • Does the brand have a certain style that you need to achieve or continue?
  • What are your feelings on how you would like to approach this project?
  • Are there any set parameters that we must contend with if and when we move forward into production?
  • Budget, time constraints, location stipulations, media usage, product availability, talent needs or expectations, client approvals, etc.

Asking these questions demonstrates that you have an understanding of everything that may come into play when working on a production. It also shows that you have a strong grasp of how to handle a project whether big or small.

At the end of the call, suggest that you’d like some time to review the specs and that you will be back in touch (specify when) to have a collaborative discussion. Then it’s time to get to work.

The Business Lab Win Clients Over After the Initial Creative Call with Photography or Illustration Art Buyers resized 600

Step Two: Make the Most of What You Know About the Project & Client

Now that the call is over, you need to do your research. Find out as much as you can about the creative team that you could potentially be working with, the type of projects that they have worked on, the brand vision for the client and consider what you can bring to the table to make you their answer for the project under consideration. Also, try and learn who your competition is and gather information about them as well.

Once you have a better understanding of the client, take this insight and begin to weave your magic:

  1. Prepare a competitive bid that fully lays out all of the items and crew members needed to handle this project.
  2. Provide potential options to allow the team to collaborate on the final solution, but come to the table with your perspective and how you would suggest handling the project.
  3. Create mood or style boards* that specifically outline your thoughts for how you would suggest moving forward in partnering with the creative and the client to bring their project to life. Pull examples of styles and create strong descriptions that provide perspective and vision for how you would like to move forward.

*Style or mood boards should include, but are not limited to:

  • Concept
  • Models/Talent
  • Setting
  • Styling/Props/Hair & Make-up/Locations/Surfaces
  • Inspirational Swipe
  • Production plans

Step Three: Win the Bid

Go back to the conversation you had with the creative and their thoughts and direction for the project. Make sure that your solution and approach ensures their vision will be executed, and then push the envelope. Today’s creatives not only want to make sure that their vision will be executed, but they are also looking for a creative collaboration with a photographer who can bring something more to the table. They want an artist who will push the project as far as possible to potentially take the finish to a whole new place that may not have been dreamed of previously.

You truly need to find alignment with the vision that is initially articulated when conversations begin with creatives, but, you MUST also find a way for your voice, perspective and style to shine too. All of this can be accomplished with information, research, a little bit of intuition and an extra dash of creativity and inspiration!

Thank you to Agency Access for the initial post of my piece.

www.agencyaccess.com

Resolutions or Plans?
















So what did you do to celebrate the New Year? Every year, people discuss goals and resolutions, things we want to do and achieve, but the question really is, do you make a plan to conquer that goal? This year - I am making a plan and sticking to it. Much of it has to do with my focus. Enjoy the here and now, love what I am doing and see it for all its beauty as I am experiencing it TODAY! I am really grateful for all that I have, family, friends, a business, health and loads of opportunity ahead. Jim and all of my photographers hope to collaborate with you this upcoming year.

Here is to a year of all of us seeing an incredible 2012 and achieving our collective goals!

www.jimscherer.com

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Long and Winding Road..............2012, here we come!














This image that Joshua shot actually seems quite fitting, what lays ahead is an adventure. Not exactly sure what is ahead, but I am sure it will present with plenty of challenges and will provide excitement along the way. I'm up for the challenge and look forward to partnering with many of you to see what awesome work we can do together. Let's get going on this new path!

www.joshuaweinfeld.com