Behind the Scenes of Photographing Demon Dreams

Photographing the artists of West of Lenin Theatre

Behind the scenes of photographing “Demon Dreams” by Tommy Smith for West of Lenin Theatre.

During the last weeks of pre-production, I had the fantastic opportunity to photograph the cast of “Demon Dreams“.  My favorite part was to capture the actors in the dressing room as they put on makeup.  If you’ve never had the opportunity of being in the room during the moments before a show or shoot, I can only explain the experience as very special.  Each individual is looking at themselves in the mirror of who they are at that moment, then mentally, emotionally and literally physically altering themselves into their character.  As the team goes through this together in the room, it is a very bonding time and a sense of rapport, trust and family is created.  I can not express the honor I feel every time I am allowed into the room during this sacred time.

Special thanks to Natalia Dotto for her creative eye and contributing to the behind-the-scenes shots and to the best lighting and photography assistant Ben Jadron. You are both appreciated so much!

Carter Rodriguez, Chris Macdonald, Matt Aguayo, Heather Persinger, Susanna Burney and Sara Peterson are performing in “Demon Dreams” through November 10th, 2012.  It’s a Photo Sister must see!

Ben Jadron assisting me with fill light.

My sweet Think Tank Photo Retrospective 7 on the set. It’s my second/behind the scenes camera bag for all my shoots.

Go see Carter Rodriguez, Chris Macdonald, Matt Aguayo, Heather Persinger, Susanna Burney, and Sara Peterson in “Demon Dreams” at West of Lenin

Catch “Demon Dreams” at West of Lenin in Seattle, October 18 – November 10, 2012.