The Illusion of Stardom

In the world of photography, there’s a certain allure that comes with photographing and meeting famous people. It’s an experience that often gives the impression of being cooler than one actually is. However, as someone who has been in this field for a while, I’ve come to realize that the reality of working with celebrities is far from just the glitz and glamour.

I am not the type of person who gets starstruck… well anymore. When I see someone famous, I smile and leave them alone. This might seem counterintuitive, especially considering the nature of my work (There is exceptions) . However, I’ve found that the last person they want to talk to is me in most cases. Celebrities, despite their public personas, are just like us - they value their privacy and appreciate being treated with respect.

That being said, there are occasions when I get to have conversations with people I least expect, Recently Gareth Gates and his wife; wonderful people with just as wonderful souls.

Humanizing the Famous

One of the most important aspects of working with famous figures is to remember to treat them like humans. This might seem obvious, but it’s surprisingly easy to forget, especially when you’re in the presence of someone you’ve seen on screen or heard on the radio.

Elevating them above you is not what they want unless they have some type of ego behind them. But those type of people I wouldn’t spend my time talking to in the first place. I’m here to work, and many seem to understand that I am here to work just like they are. People often think they can talk their way into the positions I put myself into, but it really comes down to wanting to work in the space.

Professionalism in the Field

If you are a photographer, videographer, creative director, etc., it’s crucial to maintain a high level of professionalism at all times. This means treating the talent like you would want to be treated. Respect their space, understand their needs, and work towards making them comfortable. This approach not only helps in getting the best out of them but also establishes a positive working relationship.

Dealing with Divas

However, there’s always an exception to the rule. In this case, it’s divas. Nobody likes a diva, no matter your status. Working with individuals who demand unreasonable attention or have inflated egos can be challenging. However, maintaining professionalism and patience can help navigate through such situations.

Working with famous figures is not about the fame or the status. It’s about the work, and the mutual respect between two professionals.

So, the next time you find yourself photographing a celebrity, Influencer, even a politican, remember to treat them as equals, respect their space, and most importantly, we’re all just humans trying to make a mark in this world.