My First Political Head Shot
Being a Commercial and Headshot photographer, you knew that someday you would need to do a shot for politics. No, this is not a political ad, for I am neither a Republican nor Democrat but a person with my own thoughts and views. I received a phone call from a dear friend and asked if I could take a picture of a person who will be running for Sheriff. It would be a donation shot. Of course, I said yes. If you follow me, you know I, at times, do things for volunteering or donation because of the cause. The assignment was to get pictures of Gary Mohre. Surprisingly, coming from a small town and living here for about 17 years. I had no idea who Gary Mohre is. Again for those of you who don’t know me, I come from the great state of Wisconsin. Ok, back to the assignment. I met Gary and his family for the very first time. What a lovely man and a great family. I met with his wife, his daughter, and his grandchildren. Which, by the way, I put them to work. (My assistance for the day) We talked about the story of corona and when this will ever end. We talked about his family and typical small talk to make everyone comfortable. Next was to take a small room and make it in a studio. I moved things around, and now it was time to take Gary’s pictures. Something I learned about Gary and I never knew this till he told me. That this man I never knew and did not know me until the day of the picture was the police officer in Blakeslee, Ohio. I bring this up because every time I would go through Blakeslee, Gary would always wave to me in the morning, and I am sure he did the same to others. But it made my morning great with a typical midwest friendliness—something we need today. Back the shoot. We were just about ready to finish up, and then I had one more idea. Getting some pictures with Gary and the flag. Wouldn’t you know that is was the last idea that Lisa (head of the campaign) used. This was my first political headshot. I am proud to take the picture but even more proud to meet the man who took the time to wave to a stranger, open up to a stranger, and have values similar to what I believe in. I won’t lie; it is cool to see your picture all over in Williams County. Signs, Website, and Billboard.
Good Luck, Gary, and thank you for picking me for your photographer. You are an honorable man, and I enjoyed working with you and meeting your family.