Behind the Scenes at the Met Gala: Photographing Icons in the Rain
This year, I had the incredible opportunity to photograph the Met Gala for my client, Taj Pierre, at one of New York City’s most iconic locations—The Pierre Hotel. Despite the glamour and glitz of the evening, the reality on the ground was intense, fast-paced, and soaked in rain.
Shooting Stars in Seconds
Working with A-list celebrities like Michael Kors, Megan Thee Stallion, Manish Malhotra, and Natasha Poonawallawas an unforgettable experience. When you’re shooting high-profile personalities on a day as high-stakes as the Met Gala, every second counts. There are no retakes. You have to be ready—camera set, lighting dialed in, eyes alert—because your window to capture the moment might only last a few seconds.
Rain, Pressure, and Hustle
New York's unpredictable weather threw us a curveball. It was raining non-stop throughout the evening, which made the shoot exponentially more challenging. Rain and camera gear never mix well, but when you’re in the middle of the action, there's no room for hesitation. By the end of the night, both I and my gear were completely drenched—but luckily, nothing was damaged. It was one of the most physically demanding yet creatively rewarding shoots I’ve done.
Lessons from the Chaos
Photographing celebrities in a live, high-pressure environment like the Met Gala taught me the importance of quick thinking, adaptability, and staying calm under pressure. Whether it’s positioning the light just right in under a second or anticipating a subject’s movement, this kind of work requires both technical precision and street-smart instincts.
If you're looking for a photographer who thrives under pressure and delivers even when the stakes are high, let's connect. Whether it's a red carpet event or a private campaign, I bring experience, professionalism, and a creative eye to every project.
Why NYC Brands Need Editorial Fashion Photography
New York City isn’t just a fashion capital, it’s a storytelling hub. In a city overflowing with style and substance, your brand must make a visual statement to stand out. Whether you're launching a capsule collection or building buzz pre-Fashion Week, working with a NYC-based editorial photographer means you’re tapping into local expertise, iconic locations, and the fashion-forward pulse of the city.
Looking for inspiration? Check out our portfolio for recent NYC-based editorials that helped brands define and differentiate themselves.
