Jamie Warren

My friend Sheila came by the studio last week with country artist Jamie Warren. She was here to get reference photos of him for a portrait she’ll be painting. Jamie came ready for the reference photos and for professional portraits by me. I would be the back-up photographer, making sure Sheila got what she wanted (or that I got what she wanted). I would also have the opportunity to shoot Jamie for my portfolio.

So why do I only have some snapshots to show and no interesting portraits?

Jamie was friendly and relaxed. He seemed comfortable enough in his own skin that I don’t think he would need even a short warm up in front of the camera.
He said, I prefer something different from the tired poses and cliches of country singer photos.
4 seconds of doubt . What if I can’t pull that off?
Give my head a shake; hopefully not visibly. The man just told me exactly what I wanted to hear, gift wrapped! So we can go for more natural looking, unposed portraits and I can play around with different angles and looks. People are constantly giving me happy surprises like that. Computers have been doing their best to balance that trend with other surprises.

Sheila and I are both asking him what he would like.
I’ll tell you, I really have no need for more pictures of myself or a painting of me.

After 5 CD’s over many years, he really does have more than enough and his own image is not an abiding personal interest.
That’s a good, healthy attitude, I think. I’m glad I met Jamie Warren….but now I don’t want to shoot him as much. I have come to rely on my portrait subjects’ interest and involvement in making their images with me. No matter how many great ideas I bring to a session, my enthusiasm and inspiration doubles when we start working with their ideas. Getting excited and playing around. Authentic photos that show the real person just happen then.

I turned off my studio flashes and set up the modelling lights for Sheila to get what she wanted on her camera. She remains undaunted! I would grab a quick shot here and there when it wouldn’t interfere. A studio shoot was out because I really do take over when I’m doing those.

We went outside at the end and Sheila already had her reference photos. Jamie still had some time. I could have had a short, dedicated session but I didn’t ask for it.

Why do I only have some snapshots?

Because I tucked tail and didn’t ask for it!

One day, Sheila can tell the story of how many times she prompted, pulled, invited, suggested and directed me to great opportunities to get myself out there and be seen. …. how many times I had to see her model this in person for me before I finally caught on. I will catch on Sheila. I’m glad you’re around to keep showing me.

Why was Jamie here for a painting and some portraits if he didn’t want more pictures of himself?

…. just to help out an emerging artist and a new photographer.

There’s a common thread I see here with successful people who deserve their success: They help others get what they want.

You can have a listen to Jamie Warren’s new CD release, -Right Here, Right Now- on his website: jamiewarren.com

Sheila Diemert’s paintings can be viewed at her website: artbysheila.anythingmore.com
I recommend seeing these large pieces in person. Check the site for public exhibitions and locations.