Working the Shot
This past summer, photographer extraordinaire, Steven West, took us to Hayama for another photoshoot series. The goal was to create photos that tell a story for Getty Images. Our modeling approach for still images was like acting in silent films. We brought the outfits and props to role play as paddle surfers, yoga and martial arts practitioners, lost travelers, campers, dancers, and a silly couple (that part required no acting). Steven had his legendary Canon 5D Mark II, Canon glass, and a GoPro. We planned an all day shoot from the morning waves until the sunset over the camp fire.
Making a living from photography is very challenging. The photography industry is oversaturated. Anyone can take pictures and everyone takes pictures. Photos are not in the same bracket as shelter, water, and food. For a consumer to spend a dollar on a photo means that the photographer has to be the fucking best in their industry.
It was time for us to pack up and get back to Tokyo. Steven photographed every scene but the campfire. As exhausted as we were, the campfire scene was an opportunity to cook up a meal. The strong winds made it difficult to get the fire started. But once the wood burned, Steven mustered up the strength to snap the final scenes of the day. He submitted those final images to a calendar competition. We are now Mr. and Ms. July of the Snow Peak 2017 calendar. Bread never tasted so damn good.
“Most wire walkers, they die when they arrive. They think they have arrived... But they are still on the wire. If you have three steps to do, and if you do those steps arrogantly... if you think you are invincible... You are going to die!”
