It's award season in Los Angeles, and I've been in and out of LAX more times than Lindsay Lohan has been to Promises, but I digress. The other day, as I was arriving at The Standard, Hollywood, home of the latest installment of Chez André mayhem, I ran into Billy Farrell doing what he does best. And you know what happened next...
In our latest installment of Suitcase Confessions, I delved into the world of Billy Farrell and David X. Prutting of BFA NYC while on assignment in LA for Oscar weekend. Here's what they had to tell me ...
What events are you shooting this weekend?
BF: We're going to be at a few things: Richard Prince's opening at Gagosian, the Prism Gallery opening, Vanity Fair's Oscar Party and, of course, Chez André's roaming pop-up karaoke club at The Standard, Hollywood every night over the weekend. Lots of late nights!
What's your secret to getting a celeb on the red-carpet to look into your lens?
BF: Honestly, all you have to do is pay attention and get that moment when it happens naturally. Most celebs know exactly what to do on a red carpet, though I've been known to spank a bottom on occasion to get attention.
What's one camera-related travel must-have and one regular travel must-have?
DXP: I love my Canon glass so I want to have a few lens options that help lend a different perspective to the photos. An iPhone camera is good back-up in case someone spills beer on your gear. Other travel must-have? A carton of Marlboros. Sorry mom!
What's the secret to capturing the money shot at a party?
DXP: A great party photographer knows to always be scanning the room. Don't miss the moment. Also, don't be afraid to get creative with your subjects if time allows. Be part of the party and it will happen.
What's the greatest party you ever shot at The Standards?
BF: If I had to choose it would have to be the HEAVEN + HELL Halloween Party at The Top of The Standard in NYC in 2010. I could try and explain why, but the pictures tell it better.
DXP: Definitely the night when Purple Magazine & BLK DNM took over the entire 18th floor of The Standard, High Line. Lot's of nudity in the pool that night.
And there you have it. Suitcase CLOSED. You can catch me on Sunday night when I present the Best Actress category at the Oscars. It will be closed captioned for the hearing impaired.
xoxo
Stan
