Halloween is around the corner and I’m seeing novelty and character masks in every Duane Reade/Walgreen’s/Ricky’s out here. Personally, I’m not one to try those on while waiting to buy some seltzer and a Reese’s peanut butter cup at the Duane Reade across the street. But watching everyone in line have a crack at it got me thinking, there’s something to be said about the masks that we wear. The faces we put on everyday for various audiences. I wear this mask at the office, this mask at the gym, this mask with my accountant, this mask with my family etc. It got me thinking, what if we got rid of the masks all together?
In the studio we have to put those masks aside. I’m finding lately with my clients that a portrait session in the studio is permission to be the real you. I’m not saying I’m a purveyor of authenticity when it comes to capturing the real you. That message, that vulnerable You few ever see, that’s going to come out regardless of agenda in the studio. Many clients come to sessions, including myself, with those masks into the shop no different than bringing extra outfits.
Communication is what inevitably breaks down that fourth wall mask. Whether it’s prepping for your session with the team and the questions that arise beforehand, in front of the camera, or with yourself, lay it all out on the table. This is your moment. Your moment to be the real you. One shot, literally to be fully self expressed, vulnerable and authentic, regardless of masked agenda.
Leave the mask. Take the Reese’s.
