Chris Buck is one of the best portrait photographers in the world. His photos are usually funny, often awkward, always provocative. He shoots a lot of celebrities and politicians, putting them in situations that somehow strip them of their famous veneer, revealing the humanity behind their public exteriors. He’s shot several of my former clients - Willie Nelson, Dave Matthews, Live Nation CEO Michael Rapino - and the results have been extraordinary.
He seldom does workshops. In fact the last one I saw was years and years ago in Santa Fe and I didn’t have the means (and probably the skill) to seriously contemplate enrolling. But earlier this year I noticed he was teaching another workshop in NYC and I signed up immediately. As the months clicked by running up to the workshop I thought often of cancelling. I didn’t think I was good enough.
But this past weekend, I brushed off my insecurity and showed up, the only non-pro among about 10 incredibly talented photographers. Chris was great. I learned a lot. I learned how to be present in the moment of shooting. I learned to have a plan, but keep my mind and eyes open to other possibilities. I worked hard and I loved the results. I also learned, I’ll never be Chris Buck!