July 9, 2008
-
New York, New York
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
visit:www.bandelezuberi.com
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
NEW YORK, NEW YORK
(click on the play)
Finally! Sorry you had to wait this long to see some of my NYC eye candy. I can’t quite believe it’s a whole month since I arrived back to the UK! My first trip to the Big Apple was back in 2004 with family and friends and whilst I did enjoy myself I never really got to see much of this immense city. Things were very different this time around! The theme of this workshop was ‘Funky’ & ‘Fabulous’ but I think the word CRAZY should have been included in there! I indulged in an incredible 3 day shooting extravaganza in Flushing, Brooklyn and Soho with 16 photographers and countless models to choose from. As you can imagine there was very little sleep (who needs it anyway when you’re having so much fun!), eating out at 1am in the morning (I passed on the pigs ear dish!), embarassng mishaps and many magical moments that only occur under the extremes of a Next Level workshop.
I was inspired by all the photographers who shared in this unforgettable trip and I really felt like by attending this workshop I was able to get closer to achieving my creative visions. I have also been experimenting with my post-processing techniques inspired by the awesome work of Scott Robert our master teacher and Tauran Woo who unfortunately couldn’t make it to NYC this time round.
Huge thanks to Joyce, Anita, Keith, May, Yili, Alison, Sherry, Laura & Christian and all the other models I met but didn’t get to shoot. You were all fantastic!
In tribute to all things big in the Big Apple I’ve supersized both my slideshow and images. Hope you enjoy!
Art Direction by Bandele Zuberi & Liz Song
Huge props to the gentleman who let me pose May and Yili in his ice-cream truck. I tried to give him a tip but he wouldn’t accept any payment and when I attempted to make a purhase instead he made up a huge ice-cream to give May an Yili as a gift. He said it was an honour to be part of something special! An act of kindness that is increasingly rare these days.
Visit my website. -click here- To view or leave comments. -click here-
Comments (30)
Amazing images as always. In fact your images are getting so good I’m expecting them all to be amazing now and they are!! There were so many models and opportunities in this workshop- truthfully I think this workshop produced the most high quaility images. I also can see the big steps you are making with every workshop. Some call you crazy for going to all my workshops but as you say, your imagery gets better with each workshop and you are growing soooo fast. What you have accomplished in one year took me 6 or 7 years, literally!!! I can tell you are fine tuning your images to perfection, getting the little things right which creates images that are masterpieces and timeless.
Thanks so much for putting the candid stuff together for the class, you and Steve did an awesome job with that. I think we love to see the behind the scenes stuff!!! In fact my favorite image is the steamy shot of Sherry and Christina!!!! It was so fun to relive this workshop again- let’s do it all over again in the UK in a few weeks!!!!! Thanks B for your relentless pursuit of excellence.
Dude, I feel like a record! Everytime I comment all I can say is AWESOME!! Like Scott mentioned I think I just expect great images from you. I see you have something new up and think I am in for a treat. Thanks for being an inspiration! I don’t think you are crazy for going to all the workshops I am just jealous I can’t. Keep up the great work my friend it really is becoming exceptional.
Bandele!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yay and update and full of amazing pictures! I love em. Love that first one of Sherry and the one with the chefs and the model with the orange dress. LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE IT! Keep updating! Love hearing it!
What an awesome post B! It almost makes me feel like I was there too.
Of course, I know we missed out on all the good stuff. I can’t wait to
get back in the game! I love keeping up with your posts. They really
are a treat! Great job. Enjoy being home for the next one. Wish I
could come.
Yo, what’s my name doing next to Scott Robert? Thanks for the great compliment, and love your NYC images – I’m really rooting for you to blow up, so you can invite me to the UK to shoot a wedding with you! I missed you all on this trip, I really get inspired by you and the others on these trips – Sorry, I’m gonna miss London, but we’ll hook up again in Spain. My new goal is to bump Christina from #1! hahaha BTW – very provacative pics with Christina and Sherry!
ITS ABOUT BLOODY TIME YOU POST THESE! =) JK Great slide show my friend and stunning images. You are reaching new heights and man I can’t wait to see what else is cooking. Keep up the amazing work! =) Sorry I can’t see you in the UK but perhaps Spain.
these are AWESOME!!! Great job on the slideshow and all that damn post-processing. I bet your eyes are like permanently glazed over or something. hahaha…hope you’re taking some time to ride, dance, socialize and all that fun stuff. can’t wait to see more of your work!
Great job!! Beautiful…more then beautiful! Wow, B!
So you deleted my comment. I guess you answered my question then about Scott Robert Lim.
If you had the balls you would have commented back and not acted like a child and deleted what was a truthful entry of mine. I was only asking a question and looking for an answer. And I thought of all of his students and followers that you would be the one to show me up and prove to me what I asked for, I guess I was wrong about you.
Ramone
@rmlsf -
Hi Ramone, I’m sorry that you feel that way, I deleted your comment as I felt it was a little odd that you did not address me by my name and having read through your words they seemed to be directed not just at me but other Scott Robert workshop attendees and that you were seeking validation of Scott’s talent as a photographer and teacher. I therefore deemed it to be inappropriate and an unfair arena to levy your critisims. I value all feedback and opinions and always take them on board and use them postively to motivate and focus me on becoming a better photographer. I can only assume that your label ‘like a child’ refers to my recent arrival in this industry and my relative lack of experience. I hope then that the next time you comment you can offer me some friendly advise on how I might be able to survive and navigate this fiercely competitve industry. Ultimately I have only myself to prove what can be achieved.
I hope now I have reposted your comment below you get the response that you are looking for and that they resolve any genuine concerns you may have. Best wishes.
Ramone’s original comment:
Dear Scott Robert Lim Fan:
Very Nice work!!! Now I would like to see some images you have created at a real wedding or your own engagement shoot. Lets see how you can translate what you have learned from Scott Robert Lim into your own imagery. That will be the test and the proof that all those thousands of dollars you have spent going to all of Scotts seminars have really paid off and were worth it. Show me real images of all sorts of people and the finished photographs from those. Shooting set up shots with models who know how to pose are easy, shooting the real world in real time is another story. Every single student of Scotts has almost the same results as you have shown me here, some a little better than others, so I want to see proof that his talents as a photographer and a teacher are real. No hate here, just want someone to step up to the bat and prove to me that what you all have learned can be presented in your own images thats all. I’ll be waiting to hear back from any of you out there.
Fondly,
Ramone
keep up the sweet work B! your editing is crazy. i love the smoothness of that Anita pic!
and to Ramone, we are all learning to be good photographers and getting shots that are like each others is commonplace in a workshop (any workshop). just like obtaining a degree in college, everyone works for that degree, and everyone takes the same course to get there. its when you graduate and use those techniques youve learned as a foundation and stepping stone to develop your own style or workflow that get you hired in the real world. i have absolutely no problems seeing similar images. Scotts talents as a photographer and teacher are real because he has taught us these foundations in these workshops that we can then take and develop our own style from when we do have our own shoots.
and knowing B, when he gets more and more jobs lined up, his images will be breathtaking. no doubts there.
keep up the work B, cya in Spain!
Hey B!
I just got your email and all I have to say is WOW I don’t understand if this guy is jealous that he can’t do all the workshops too or that he never had the opportunity to have someone mentor him or what is going on. It’s not like you said you went out and did all these images on your own, we all know you are doing the workshops to improve on your work you are doing this for you! Then when you do have events to shoot you know what you want to do this is your schooling. I think it’s great that you are able to do all the workshops and it is working for you…I wish it was something I could do! Don’t take it as a negative thing take it that he is admiring your work and all of Scott’s students because he is checking everyone’s work! There has to be something that draws him! Keep on doing what you do your work is awesome as always! Donna
Good job again, my friend. You already know what I think about your latest set of imagery from my facebook comments.
Anyway… what that guy said above, it’s true that shooting “models” is easy–if by “easy” he meant that someone else has already come up with the concept, done the creative thinking, found the location, obtained the wardrobe and props, set up the lighting, created the moment…. So of course that’s easy, if a photographer’s entire portfolio consists of images he/she had done no work for except come onto the scene, snapped a pic, and walked away. But I guessed he missed the part where you stated “art direction”, or where you posed the couple. Or even your other entries of work you did entirely on your own.
Keep doing what you’re doing, man. I have utmost confidence you’re going to succeed tremendously in the industry.
In my experience, RMLSF’s concerns are quite valid- real-world
experience is the #1 asset you can have as a wedding photographer, both
when it comes to consistently making your clients happy, and when it
comes time to actually make a sustained living, a long-term career.
There is no substitute for sheer experience, and there is no way to
just go out and buy a year or two of experience and jam it under your
belt.
Not all aspiring professional photographers will make it. How could
they? MILLIONS are giving it a try. Many do not have the business
skills to survive. Many don’t even have the photographic talent,
period. This is what you call a high-risk field. The investment costs
are actually very little, even with thousands of dollars spent on
workshops, (compare that to hundreds of thousands spent on a college
education!) …and camera gear can now handle practically ANY
condition. So no, not everybody’s going to make it. If that is the
point being made here, then let it be made. Some will fail.
Having said that, however, after following Scott and many of his
students over the years, I have watched numerous photographers achieve
great success thanks to his guidance and encouragement. Just look at
photographers who ARE making it in the real world now, such as
Junshien, Hana, and YOU, Bandele. (I don’t have the guts to list
myself among the successful just yet, lest I jinx it, but suffice it to
say that I am busy enough with work that I REALLY shouldn’t be on Xanga
right now, I should be processing children’s theater images, designing
multiple wedding albums, and preparing for three more gigs coming up
this next week. And I think Scott Robert has had a big influence on
where I am today, even if my photographic style is different.)
So, while I think it needs to be pointed out (as nicely as possible)
that not everyone will make it, I also have faith in SOME, that they
will succeed and achieve this dream… Scott is very good at not only helping workshop attendees get great photos at his workshops, but he opens your eyes to see the best light, the best posing angle, and these skills have stayed with me in the real world. He also is a completely open book when it comes to the business side of things, and offers brilliant business / marketing tactics.
So it boils down to whether or not a person actually implements the things they learned. That has to do with people themselves, and like I said, many will fail, but if you buckle up and DO IT, your chances of success are not chances at alll, they are sure-fire…
=Matt=
Your work is lovely as always B!! Love the NY Snaps too. Very fun.
and for Ramone: Scott’s students are just that. Students. Everyone there is there to learn from him. He’s a great teacher, as well as mentor and friend. Very difficult to find nowadays. Many photographers give workshops. Any one can pick up a digital camera and say they are photographers. The point with workshops are they are a place for students to experiment with assistance. Yes, Scott’s students tend to have a similar look, but in the end, the ones that take that knowledge they get from Scott, bringing in their own style, are the ones that will succeed. I believe B will be one of them. And Scott is one that is great at pushing his students ahead. He doesn’t just say goodbye after the class. He’s there for you when you need him. And if you’re looking at these shots, realize these aren’t professional models. They’re just regular peeps, that look pretty amazing with the help of Scott’s students.
Hi everybody, interesting conversation here. Ramone’s comments seem to have stirred up some good discussion. While his comments and tone seemed a bit pointed for my taste, he is presenting a legitimate challenge to all the “Scotties” out there. We do need to prove ourselves that we can bring it and get results in the real world. Though the vast majority of the subjects @ the workshops are “real” people (real couples and singles w/ no modeling exp.), there are some aspects of the workshops, and rightly so, that are ’better than reality’ conditions. That seems entirely appropriate for a learning situation to me, and I don’t think anyone needs to apologize for that.
We all have a dream and desire to make it as a professional photographer, and to gain creative and financial fulfillment from doing what we love, but I don’t think it’s a stretch to say that our success is going to depend on a number of factors. As Matt touched on, your knowledge of business principles, your personality, personal drive, artistic talent, and ‘luck’, will factor in significantly. I don’t think anyone, Scott or otherwise, can guarantee success, simply by going to a class. Beware of anyone who sugguests this. So, even in a small class of Scott Robert students, results will be mixed. Having said that, in my opinion, Scott is a phenomenal teacher, and I can honestly say his teaching changed my entire professional life. I tell all the aspiring photographers I run into to attend one of his workshops, because he is going to teach you exactly what you need to know, including all the things that no one ever tells you at the other workshops, about working and succeeding in the real world.
So I challenge all past and future workshop attendees, myself included, to use the information given, to strive for success and excellence in a world of mediocrity, and try to push yourselves a little further toward greatness each day, until you find yourselves in rare company, amongst the world’s best. Not for the sake of satisfying the faceless Xanga naysayers, but hopefully for the sake of channeling your natural creativity into a viable and lucrative career. Everyone keep posting their images, I and the rest of the photographic community gains inspiration and value by these contributions. I salute you B, it takes bravery (really) to put your work up on a public blog for all to see and comment about, either in favor for or against. Not every photographer or blogger has the ‘balls’ for that… I look forward to your next post, as well as the body of work that will spring forth in the years to come.
-Tauran, professional photographer, amateur speech writer (still shorter than Matt’s novel, see 2 above)
Ramone fails to see is the improved quality of B’s work and his unlimited POTENTIAL!! Anyone who has been following B’s work knows that he can take amazing pictures all by his lonesome. There is no shame in using workshop images. In fact, a few years ago when I was published in Studio Photography magazine, they used images that I took at a workshop. Those images were good, but my images that I produce now are even better IMHO. B will blow away these current workshop images in a few years so Ramone’s comments seem rather silly to me. Ramone is upset that B is promoting work that he feels B can NOT replicate in the real world. He wants B to provide proof that only the future will prove. Ramone, please know that our Bandele will be one of the UK’s finest photographers in a few years. I am sorry that you can not see B’s amazing potential and can’t be encouraging to such a talented photographer. All those who know B and read his blog- he is obsessed with being the best, that is why he takes workshops. I’m sorry that Ramone had made a judgement about B without really getting to know him and who he is.
B, I have come across hundreds of photographers and I know that you have a unique ability that very FEW possess. Continue with your excellent work and in a few short months, Ramone’s “challenge” will become an embarassment to himself.
i love the first shot B! you have an amazing eye in capturing a beautiful picture!
regarding the comment made by the dude, I’ve only gone to one of Scott’s workshop (but plan on attending more in ’09) and in those 2 days spent with Scott, I learned so much in those 2 days that it blew me away. We are just students learning the lay of the land. Scott provides us the map to get to where we want to go in our photography. He’s an excellent teacher and seeing all the things his students do after the classes on their own, is amazing. I can’t wait until I do another Scott Robert Workshop!
that’s my humble 2 cents.
Hi B, your images have always amazed me. I wouldn’t listen to the guy (Ramone). What does he know, he might actually be one of us who is also thriving to be the best out there but fail and is just upset with the world and this is his only outlet. Who knows?
I’ve taken Scott’s workshop once last year and looking forward to my 2nd one in a few weeks. Like what Tauran said, “Scottis going to teach you exactly what you need to know, including all the things that no one ever tells you at the other workshops, about working and succeeding in the real world.” I’m not just saying this because I love his work but because of what I’ve gain in 3 days from him. His Workshop gave me a whole new look in the Photography world. The models that come to his Workshop are real people, no modeling experience. Not only do we learn how to capture the moment and the beauty of the subjects, at the same time, we learned how to “pose” them and placing them in the right light to create that beautiful image. I’ve taken several photography classes, even models need guidance on how to stand, where to look and how to position themselves. Workshops are expensive and if it’s not worth it why would I want to spend so much, if any money on it? Maybe you should try out Scott’s Workshop, you could learn a thing or two.
Whoa Nelly..Ramone I somehow feel like you need to work on your writing tone and Tact, thats the problem with written comments, you have to write well and be shall we say a little more considerate, after all it’s a public arena. I guess that this comes with accolade B, once your work starts moving to another level then people get more critical-it is a real sign that your work is starting to stand out.
Whilst its true that a real wedding isn’t the same as a workshop scenario, a lot of the photographers here do portraits and senior shoots. B has done some outstanding work, as has Steve, Tauran and Junshien ( I suggest you mosey on over there Ramone and look at their client work).
I envy B on many levels he has the time and support from family to pursue his dream by having the opportunity to be mentored by one of the nicest and most generous Pro Photographers out there-Did you know that Scott allows his mentees to second shoot with him on a lot of his weddings, so they can get Real World Experience!
I have to say that I have attended a couple of Scott’s workshops and will be attending more, I went to Scott’s workshop’s because I lack confidence technically..workshops like these allow you to try stuff that you couldn’t do with clients unless you knew what you were doing-isnt that the whole point., you are also surrounded by photographers in exactly the same position which is IMHO reassuring. I dont feel threatened or stupid as I am supported by like minded individuals and scott is exceptionally supportive if you struggle with anything.
Its a competitive market and cut-throat because soooo many Photographers are egotists who think that you have to knock your competition down to make yourself look or feel better-seriously that doesn’t do the industry any favours…whoops Ramone!
The most successful people in the world are those who give something back ,are grateful and share their lives no questions asked. Scott and the students who go on his courses are like that, we are a sharing supportive network of amateur, semi pro and fledgling pro photographers and ultimately just everyday people who are pursuing their passions and Dreams
Thanks for sharing this B you are a scholar and a gent!
To Ramone, had you any idea how much time and lesson learned at a Scottie workshop, you wouldn’t have made those comments. I myself haven’t had that much time posting or “proving” to the likes of people who like you share the same opinion that a Scottie workshop is overly costly and a time-waster. Btw, when is Education EVER too expensive if you can use it and apply the lessons to your actual work and life in general?? And why haven’t I posted? Thanks to Scott, I’ve learned so much and all my friends and contacts are so impressed with my new and improved approach that I’m over-booked. YEAY ME!
As for the comment about us Scotties using real models for the workshop, wrong again, dude. There’re maybe 1 or 2 at the most who are models, but my Scottie experience was with real people who just happen to look sizzling hot (WOOHOO to Christiana, Michelle, Sona, Adam, Adam, and Roger).
B, you’re a rockstar and a true gentleman for such a nice reply. I consider myself the lucky one for having met you. The Ultimate Scottie Experience includes meeting talented and aspiring photographers like you; sharing and learning from each other. Scott, thank you thank you thank you thank you. Btw, I learned so much that I’ve forgotten some parts Can’t for my next workshop.
From a fellow Scottie
@rmlsf - but he DID reply to your comment. So, does that mean he gets his balls back? Oh, and btw, I doubt you KNOW B. If you did, you would eat your words.
Beautiful coloring for all the pictures….and the behind the scenes pics were all so cute and funny!
@lynn - @Robinseyes - @junshien - @MatthewSaville - @StudioFong - @tdaddie - @scottrobert - @NoLuv4UfRmE - @Linda_P723 - @creativediva - @mzfoodie - I just wanted to say a huge thank you for all your excellent comments. I applaud you for your well placed and balanced responses to the comments left by Ramone. There is nothing I can really add that hasn’t already been said so well! More so than ever I really appreciate everyone I have met through Scott’s workshops and the friendships I have gained, it’s a large part of the reason I have attended so many! My passion for photography runs deep but what really keeps me going and pushing forward is the support of this strong network of photographers I feel part of that is so conducive to growth, success and the relentless pursuit of excellence. It is a testament to Scott’s brilliant workshops, and his vision for the future of this industry in which standards have suffered in recent years. I continue to learn so much from all of you on so many levels, not just photography, and hope that together we can realise our potential and shine bright for all to see! Take care!
I was just reading through all the comments in response to what that Ramone guy said. It got me to thinking… how wrong he is. Scott’s teaching, training, encouragement, attitude, etc. have changed my life as a photographer. I remember that after my first workshop with Scott and Dawn Shields…. I knew my life would never be the same.There is a distinct difference in my photography, skill, presentation, etc. between where I was and where I am now after that first workshop. Scott has opened a whole new world of opportunity, way of thinking, way of seeing, style, etc… and to me and that has been precious and totally invaluable. Scott is a tremendous teacher and it shows in the work of his students. I am a full time wedding photographer and the results of the training I’ve received from Scott and others show in my work… work done at real weddings. So, for Ramone to say that such great results are next to impossible to get at a real event… well, that’s silly. I’m getting those results. No one photographer shoots just like another… because everyone shoots differently and sees differently. It’s exciting to develop my own style, create a new way of seeing, and get the results that really sell.
BZ -
These were all great responses. Its always fun to stir things up and see how people respond, see how they relate to each other and really write what is in their hearts. This guy Scott Lim must be really something, from what I’ve read and seen so far from all the others maybe there is something to be said for paying him thousands of dollars to go on these shoots and classes. And as Mzfoodie said above…”B, you’re a rockstar and a true gentleman for such a nice reply.” I agree with him!
You handled my comments very well, with class and maturity and that makes you stand out from most people and you will go far in life with this attitude.
Ramone
Bandele, the NY pics are tremendous! Even just from the Caribbean workshop, you’ve grown a ton! Thanks for sharing them with us.
With regard to this fascinating thread, I have to say that I’m glad Ramone said what he said because his comment – as uncalled for as it was – has caused people to really step up and respond. It’s true that in the midst of challenge, people will rise up. And I can see it.
I guess what struck me most about Ramone’s words was that he’s projecting whatever insecurity and resentment that he has towards “Scott Robert fans” and Scott himself, instead of working those feelings out himself. It’s immature, childish, and just plain unnecessary. So, I hope you don’t take what Ramone said personally. It really isn’t about you and it is completely about him.
With that, I hope you continue to strive for excellence because you’re truly talented. Keep it real.
Peace,
Liz
I’m a HIM?
Bandele,
Non of this was about you personally, you just happened to be the one that I noticed was spending a small fortune going to all of Lims workshops, thats all. For all the others out there with thoughts of becoming great photographers and making a great fortune, BIG NEWS ALERT: it only happens to a handful.
If anything all of you are learning to just be better shooters and learning from a guy who has a great personality.
Don’t think for a moment that its so easy to run a business and being a professional photographer is no easy task. there are thousands of dollars involved, so much equipment coming out each and every year that if you dont have at least $35k to invest, just chalk all this up as a great learning and artistic lesson to take better pictures. Thats all.
FIN
Hey B, I will first start out by saying you are an inspiration to me as a photographer but more importantly as a person. I know I have not had as many experiences with you as some but even in those short times I can see that you are a passionate, fun loving, genuine, and honest person. We need not look any further than your recent post with the video of your Mom riding the bike. I hate to say it but not everyone would be out practicing bike riding with their mom. Plus the video, although focused on her riding, shows through effort and your comments a joy and happiness that exudes from you for her accomplishment.
I agree with Ramone that real world is different. I am relatively new to being “out there”. I actually did not plan to do as much as I am doing now. I went to Scott’s workshop because I wanted to feed my own passion and learn to be a better photographer. I had no intention of pursuing things past my own personal growth. But Scott is so inspiring and supportive that you just can’t help but really want to take it to the next level. Also all the other photographers I met in the workshop like you have provided great support and inspiration. I won’t rehash things about the models being real people and all those things as I feel the others have well explained that. Scott’s workshops go beyond one level and teach you so many things. You learn about how to shoot quality images, looking for light, posing, composition, technique, etc. You hear about the buisness aspects good and bad and even the hard truth about what it will take if you want to make it. But like I said I think you learn a bit more about yourself and what you desire and have a passion for in photography. I would like to believe that Ramone is actually a fan of yours and perhaps wanted to challenge you and spur you on to greater things, however, the tone, intentional or unintentional, did make it a bit hard to take.
So have the workshops been worth it? I believe all have gained great photographic knowledge. I also think that most have gained business insight and knowledge as well. I believe that most have had a truly great experience and met fantastic people who share and support a passion for photography. So in the end I think for each “Scottie” that is a personal question, but in the end I think all would say yes. Keep up the good work B. I think it is easy to see that your stuff just gets better and better. If memory serves me, you have posted real life images and they are fantastic as well. On top of that, stuff from Tauren and Steve have just been blowing up lately. Take care my friend and keep on shooting.