Awhile ago, I posted and article here about being inspired by television shows and movies. So imagine my delight when I found out there was a new show on Bravo about two high profile commercial photographers called Double Exposure. I will admit that while the shoots on the promos looked interesting, I didn’t find the personalities of the two featured photographers, Markus Klinko and Indrani, as engaging. Now that the show is hitting full steam, there is one thing I am definitely learning, and it has nothing to do with lighting or posing.  It’s how you shouldn’t behave on set (not that I didn’t already know that).

There is A LOT of arguing going on between these two photographers as they work together. As someone who works alone, I wonder how having to consult with another professional for every shot would affect my demeanor…..but am I being too confident in saying I would not be acting like this? One question that keeps popping into my mind as I watch – what amount of talent makes inappropriate behavior acceptable? Is it ever acceptable? It think the answer comes in the revelation that Klinko and Indrani are drowning in bankruptcy and debt.

This is a valuable lesson. We have all heard stories about those talented photographers that sit alone in empty studios, and then about those that might not be as technically gifted but they have more clients they can handle. This show proves the point that running a successful photography business, whether portrait of commercial, takes more than knowing how to create a great image. And while I’m awestruck by the fantastic images and how they are using all that expensive equipment, more than anything, this show confirms for me the importance of conducting yourself professionally while you work. That might be the greatest lesson ever.

MaryAnn Talamo | Custom Digital Images