Some Thoughts About Networking

First of all, I kind of hate it.

But it must be done, especially in this day and age. I'm beginning to realize that all the promo cards and e-mail blasts, and portfolio drop offs only do so much towards getting you closer to that big job (or any job for that matter). It's WHO YOU KNOW and who knows you, and who can refer you.
So, I have been trying, since I've come to New York, to make it to every social function I possibly can (especially those with free snacks and booze), to mingle and meet. Other photographers, Stylists, Hair and Make-up people, producers, and ESPECIALLY those who have the real power, the art buyers, and photo editors. So far I've only become aquainted with more of the former then the latter, buy hey, I've only been here 6 months, give me a break!

Last night I attended a networking event hosted by Adhesive NYC who's sole mission I can tell so far, is to bring creative people in this city together in a fun environment to mingle, have a few drinks, and share business info.
This one was held at an interesting place called The Frying Pan, essentially a light ship built in 1929 that's docked at Pier 66 in the Hudson River Park. It's pretty cool because you can get on the boat and explore it and stuff while drinking beer from the bar on the barge next to it. You can check out the cabins and the engine room, and there's even a couch where you can hang out!

Anyway, I digress.

So here I am at the big networking event with my new friend Cristin Shea, a Producer who runs Found Productions, (who btw is also from SF) and my friend Erin who is not new, but really young.
So we're hanging out, drinks in hand, looking at all these people. None of which we know! Something I really am not used to, seeing as that I lived in SF for almost 20 years and knew almost EVERYONE IN THE WHOLE CITY! Seriously, that's why I had to leave.
We're looking at all these people, just wondering who was who and who does what and talking about how hard it is to just go up to a person you've never met to just say, "Hi, I'm _______". I mean for me it's not impossible, but for some reason, last night was tough. So I say to Cristin, "ok, we're going to play a game, you pick out someone or a group of people in conversation, and I'll go up to them to introduce myself. If I come back with a business card, it's your turn!".

A good idea, really. One that I'll certainly try next time. Good thing there's another Adhesive event in 30 days.

Blue Tears. Brooklyn, New York

Worked with local hip hop duo Blue Tears (Robin Hood and Sami) over the weekend, shooting for their promo package. Shot on location in Brooklyn we hit up an industrial building's freight elevator and the rooftop of a 15 story apartment building overlooking the Manhattan skyline. The weather couldn't have been more perfect, and the guys were a blast to work with.

Great Write Up on Offbeatbride.com

Jeremy Harris Weddings :: Now Online!

www.jeremyharrisweddings.com

Also, got a great mention on Offbeat Bride

Sacred Hand Catalog Shoot: Jeremy's Foray Into Suburban Bliss

Spent last weekend with two of my favorite friends, who I've known since I was about 17 years old. John and Erin Bradley. They live in Gaithersburg, MD and have two beautiful children. Finnian and Fiona.

I was invited down to shoot images for Erin's clothing line, Sacred Hand, which was a great success. I also got to experience first hand the wonders of suburban living and raising children, something that I surpisingly enjoyed.
The shoot took place beside a mexican restaurant in a small shopping district near the Bradley home. A perfect location that worked so well with the colors and patterns of Erin's designs.
The "models" were so fun to work with and were extremely photogenic.
Thanks to Erin, John and all the parents who made this shoot possible.

A weekend in the State Lunatic Asylum at Taunton

This past weekend, my travel companions and I decided to pay one last visit to the Lunatic Asylum at Taunton, as it's scheduled for demolition and will most likely be coming down this Summer.

Opened in 1854 the Taunton Lunatic Asylum received many of the patients from the overcrowded Worcester State Hospital..
Designed in a new-classical style by the architect Elbridge Boyden, it's most striking and unique features are the enclosed walkways connecting the main structure to the two infirmary buildings which were added in the 1890's (one of which is no an active juvenile facility, the bridge having been destroyed). It's cupolas and cast iron capitals and window bars also add to this buildings unique personality.

The Administration section in the center caught fire and burned in 2006 leaving it a heap of bricks and rubble. All that is left of this beautiful structure are the wings on each side which housed the male and female patients, one sun breezeway, and the Turburculosis infirmary.

It will be a sad day when this building, the last of the Massachusetts Kirkbrides is gone.

For more info and links to more images, including some great b/w exterior shots check out kirkbidebuildings.com

Live Gaslight Anthem Spread in Kerrang! Magazine

Hometown heroes, Gaslight Anthem performed to a sold out crowd for two nights at The Stone Pony in Asbury Park, NJ. I was there to catch this historic performance.

Stayed tuned for shots from the portrait session.