See the World With New Eyes

That was the slogan of this year’s STARZ Denver Film Festival and I think it is especially appropriate for anyone who enjoys taking pictures. We are so often busy just trying to make it from morning to night that there is nothing else that we can do or take in. In a small way, this motto has been my motto for every event that I shoot. Most, if not all of the events I shoot, are very much public events and everyone and their mother has a camera there. So, the biggest challenge I have is knowing that every picture possible will be taken and I have to make sure my pictures stand out; how do I make sure my pictures are something that everyone’s mother didn’t just take. So I guess this is where my “vision” comes in.

Anywho, back to the festival. This was the second year I was able to volunteer as a photographer for the festival and it was an absolute blast. Everyone I met was incredible and had so much to talk about. I didn’t have any time to see films, but being able to sit in on nearly every question and answer session was well worth it. Hearing producer Zach Kranzler talk about No Subtitles Necessary, seeing how much director Bob Celestino enjoyed speaking about his film Yonkers Joe, talking with Bill Pullman about the Ellie Caulkins Opera house and seeing his look of amazement when he finally took it all in, all wonderful moments. My personal favorite had to be listening to cinematographer Wally Pfister talk about running around a junk yard following around Al Pacino while Christopher Nolan and the rest of the crew hid behind piles of dirt and junk. Leave it to me to find the best memory from one of the “behind the scenes” guys, but it certainly is a new way to see. So take a look around at the daily with new eyes and you’ll find something amazing. (PS for more check out my website. Yep, shameless plug.)

Saturday at the Movies where children have the opportunity to walk the Red Carpet.

Producer Zach Kranzler discusses his film No Subtitles Necessary

Bill Pullman on stage during an interview/question and answer session before he received the 2008 Casavetes Ward

Again, Bill Pullman.

Perhaps my favorite of the 10 day event. A fitting close to the film festival. For those that can't tell, it's a podium.