Heather is honored to welcome Michael Kaminsky to the show. With 15 years of experience in-house as well as experience as a photographer himself, Michael brings a wealth of information, tips, and insights and just all-around wisdom to listeners.

 

Key Takeaways

[:30] Heather introduces Michael and asks him to share the story of how he made his way into in-house photo and video production by way of photography — shooting rock stars such as The Rolling Stones, Nirvana, U2.

[7:02] Michael speaks to the importance of paying your dues and surrounding yourself with mentors and people that are stronger, better, and faster than you.

[8:02] Heather and Michael talk about three kinds of persistence — one of them is a no-go! And they touch on the networking aspect of this business.

[11:34] There aren't many things people don’t know about Michael, except this one thing he ate for B.B. King!

[12:57] Michael gives a detailed explanation of the inner workings of content creation at JUICE pharma.

[16:42] Finding photographers and directors primarily comes through in-person meetings, but today’s world offers so many avenues! Michael likes email, websites, and postcards (he has a piece of advice on this one).

[19:13] Michael shares his biggest contact ‘DO NOT DOs,’ unless you want to be blacklisted.

[20:23] Creating a story or a brand for yourself as a photographer is important to the extent that Michael’s team will be looking at all possible information they can find but the real key is how you connect with the creative team.

[26:20] Heather shares the story of how Michael gave her the initial confidence boost not to ask who was bidding alongside her photographers.

[29:57] Michael shares the good and bad details of the new era of bidding in terms of budgets in his corner of the world.

[36:40] Motion projects are an integral part of Michael’s work and if the project is meant to be broadcast, the pick will almost definitely go to a commercial director; Michael explains why this prejudice may be.

[39:49] Michael shares his advice for photographers looking to do motion work. Having no motion isn’t an option anymore.

[44:25] Working with well-established photographers that aren’t repped is okay, but a rep just makes everything simpler! A young photographer should consider getting repped when they aren’t able to keep neutral about their work.

[47:36] Travel, surf, and photography are what Michael would do if he wasn’t a producer.

[48:45] Heather thanks Michael for coming on the podcast!

 

Thanks for listening.

 

In an industry where the rules are always changing, it’s helpful to hear from those on the front line. Heather Elder is the visionary behind NotesFromARep’sJournal.com; visit her website for industry updates, stunning photography and video, and the artists behind the work.

 

Mentioned in this episode

JUICE Pharma

B12 Studio

 

More about our guest

Michael Kaminski on LinkedIn

 

More about your host

Heather Elder’s Bio

Heather Elder’s Blog

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Heather Elder on LinkedIn

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