College Humor

I photographed the guys who started College Humor for Business Week. They and their fairly large staff had just moved into their new Manhattan office complete with beer pong table, a Nintendo Wii, and shades that go up and down by pressing a button. All very exciting things when you're 26 and the head of your own business.

Peggy Drexler

A couple months ago I did a shoot for Newsweek's "My Turn" section. The subject was Peggy Drexler, a psychologist who has done quite a bit of research on boys raised without a father figure in their lives. It's raised quite a bit of controversy by trying to redefine what a "normal family" is, and she's quite a poised, intelligent, and well-presented woman. Plus, she has the sweetest office I've ever seen. When I hear the words, "you can photograph them in their office" it's usually followed by a feeling of anxiety... white walls, bad paintings, a big oak desk cluttered with papers. There's a reason I became a photographer, the thought of being stuck in an office all day terrifies me. Usually there's a lobby/stairwell/toilet stall with a little bit of character that will make for a good picture, but Peggy's office was a dream, with the exception of the folding mirror behind the couch. I think I'm only in one or two frames, ducking and hiding with my hand on the shutter.. not bad all things considered.

Time Out NY

Last week I had a story in Time Out NY in the "reiventing the hipster" issue. It was about True Originals, and I had 3 amazing subjects for the shoot. First up was Danny Simmons. I set up the shot, and began chatting with him while I was shooting. I asked him what he did, and after listing several books and art ventures, he mentioned he was Russell Simmons brother. Against all advice I have to admit, it didn't particularly click who that was. Maybe an actor? Musician? Yeah. I think I should stop there.

Next was Henry Baumgartner, dance critic, followed by Stephanie Stone, an 86 year old jazz musician. She used to take pictures in the clubs in New York in the 40s... on wet plates. Now, I'm not much of a photo nerd, but you should really click that link. Amazing stuff. She plays piano and sings, and seems to know just about everyone in the Jazz community. And she still plays shows at 86. Wow.