Amazing Opportunities
Mar 28th, 2008 by jeremy
I can honestly say I have been blessed with many opportunities in my career. Those who know me are aware of my passion and excitement for photography, though it is not really a big part of what brings home the bacon, if you know what I mean. I call it my professional hobby because I do some paid work, but my interest is more in finding gigs that are fun and help pay for new/more gear.
I got my start with professional photo work more on a whim than anything else. I have had a few people that don’t know me as well, or have come to know me more recently, ask for more details about why I have so many Donny Osmond photos. So, with that in mind here is a little history.
How I Met Donny
I helped start and co-owned a little web development company called Infogenix in Orem, Utah. (The company is run by some good friends that still are going strong with it and do amazing work if you are ever looking for that kind of thing.) One of our first projects was for an upstart genealogy company that Donny happened to be an investor in; Donny is very much a genealogy enthusiast. He liked what he saw in our work there and hired us to take over developing his fan site, Donny.com. Over the course of several years working on the site, I got to know Donny well and enjoyed the working relationship. The most common question I get asked is what Donny is like. Short answer, he is genuine, down to earth, and really as nice of a guy as he appears. He is also a bit of a tech geek, so there is an obvious common ground there.
My First Photo Gig
In 2004 Donny was scheduled to go on a short tour as part of a group of artists that were playing temporary venues in front of castles and well known estates throughout the UK. I had never been to Europe at all and thought how cool it would be to travel with the tour and see some of the areas. Previously I had helped Donny on some tour merchandise ideas and had gone on some US tour dates as a part of the project.
This is where the “whim” I spoke of comes in to play. To this point I had only owned two digital cameras, both early models with limited capacity and fixed lenses. I conjured up the idea of following Donny and his band on tour with my camera and capturing photos along the way to produce a photo journal/coffee table style book for his fans. I figured I could do all the work, Donny would give me full access to be along for the ride and we could create something cool and unique.
Donny took to the idea right away, though honestly his manager at the time was less than interested. She thought the idea was great, but why take the risk on this novice when they could hire a “professional” to insure a successful project. To his credit, and forever in my thanks, Donny put his faith in me professionally and as a friend. He told his manager “I know this guy, and if anyone can pull it off he can.” I relay that not to make my ego swell, but to give credit to Donny and to show the pressure that was all of a sudden a stark reality to me. What the heck was I doing proposing something that I really had no experience or skill for! But truthfully, I thrive off of challenges like this.
So, with a small advance for the project I headed out and purchased my first digital SLR, a Canon 40D. With some advice from a thread on the forums at Digital Grin, I bought my first budget lens, a Canon EF 28-135IS, (which was a stellar midrange first lens). Along with some spare batteries, CF cards and a trust laptop, that was my equipment bag in total. I converted a Targus laptop bag into a computrekker by creating my own foam enclosure with custom cutouts for my gear. It was DIY heaven on a shoestring budget.
I was nervous as could be that I would pull it off, but after the first night jitters I immediately realized I loved what I was doing and was able to capture some really fun images. The coolest moment for me was that night on the bus after the first show. I downloaded all my photos and started culling them. I was in the back lounge of the bus and Paul Peterson came back and looked over my shoulder. After a couple of minutes he called in the rest of the band to take a look; Donny, (his sons Jeremy and Don were also on this tour) joined in. They were enthralled with the photos and started helping me rank them as to keepers and throwaways. For the rest of the tour this became an after show routine that we all enjoyed.
Incidentally, Donny’s manager was also on the first part of the tour and after seeing a couple of days of photos she actually commented to me that she was glad I was on the tour and that Donny had pushed it through. Now if that isn’t redemption, I don’t know what is!
Without going through all the details, the trip and experience was amazing.
The Results
In the end I published a book called “On Tour With Donny Osmond: Photos of the UK Summer Nights Tour” which sold out its first printing in a matter of days. The second printing ended up being delayed, but the bulk of it also sold like crazy as well. A number of photos I took on that tour were also printed and sold as 8×10s on subsequent tours and through his site. The stars aligned with the quality and timing of the book was perfectly suited, and I am much appreciated to his fans for making it the retail success it was. I have met many, many of his loyal admirers over these years and can count many as close friends.
So that was my start with concert photography, and professional photography in general. I have since shot countless concerts for Donny as well as a variety of other local and some well known artists. As with most photo enthusiasts who spend (too) much money on gear, I have ended up shooting a lot of family portraits, some weddings, and a variety of other photo opportunities for businesses and individuals. I have yet to find a niche I enjoy as much as concerts, though I enjoy dabbling in everything. There are so many amazing photographers out there that I have no hope of reaching their level, but I sure the ride of trying.
What’s Next
I have been trying to get a foot in the door with a local radio station to get some media access to more concerts from a wider variety of artists. So far that foot hasn’t made it in, but I’ll keep trying. I would really like to add some diversity to my concert footage, particularly because different artists have unique looks and stage performance to capture. Concerts are some of the most difficult lighting situations to capture, particularly with the movement typical to a stage act.
In my mind I was done with Donny photos as I am in a place in my career where taking off a few weeks at a time to travel is not really in the cards. I have also captured so many images of Donny that I am afraid of just repeating myself. A couple of months ago, though, Donny called up and talked to me about doing another book. His entire original family is touring together on a reunion style tour and he really would like to have the event recorded. This is the first time they have toured together in 27 years, and likely the last time, so he would like to see something done for the special event and thought the fans would like it as well. How could I turn it down?!
So, with arrangements made with work who has graciously allowed me the time off, and an even more gracious wife that is taking the full burden at home for the duration of the trip, I am headed back out on tour. With a project like this I am very excited, but I also get that little flutter of nervous anticipation as I look ahead. I know I have the ability to make it a success, but I want it to be the absolute best it can be. I hope to capture images better than I ever have, and hopefully ones that everyone from the performers to the fans truly enjoy.
Like I said, I am blessed. I hope to continue to make the most of these great opportunities.
EDIT: I completely forgot to talk about the makingof this photo, which was the original intent of the post :) I got caught up in the telling of the overall story. In the middle of the tour Donny filmed the music video for “Breeze on By” in a loft in London. I was able to tag along with the hopes of capturing some behind-the-scenes photos. Not only did I get some shots, I was able to take advantage of the wonderful lighting and set. When the video crew would stop to change out film, I would jump in and using their current set up to snap off some shots. How often do you get professional lighting, set design and makeup/hair all provided all provided at no cost to you!
I found your blog through a Google Alert for Donny Osmond and have been enjoying your photography ever since. You are an extremely talented photographer. Your shots are dazzling!
I haven’t commented much, but have been so grateful for all the wonderful photos of Donny. He is an amazing artist as well, and an amazing person. I hope to meet him someday in the future. Were you on tour with him during the summer of 2005? I saw the show in Oklahoma City and some of the photos in the concert program look very much like your work. I need to dig out that program and see if it’s your name in the credits.
Jeremy…we have full faith in you!
You obviuosly have the talent the Lord gave you. Artistic creativity is something you are born with….and you got more than your ‘thimble’ of..:-)
I have enjoyed looking at your photos on this site…not just the Donny ones…lol. You are able to look at a moment and capture it just right, whether it’s a person, place or thing..
Have fun on this tour! And might I suggest to please include a lot of off stage or back stage moments as well as onstage. I love seeing pics of poignant moments of comtemplation before or after a show…the playful side, the serious side, the family side, etc. Lately all we’ve seen of photos of Donny and his siblings are posed ‘frozen smile’ shots for the press. I like photos that tell story…..the talking to a brother with a hand on the shoulder…..the sitting next to sister sharing a laugh…the looking at ones sibling from a distance with a look of pride ( or amusement) on their face…..that kind of stuff.
Do you plan on taking black and white as well as color shots?
Lainers
Thanks to both of you for your kind comments and ideas.
@Sandy - yes, that tour program was one I put together using photos I had taken during the previous year. Glad you enjoyed them!
@ElainUT - you are dead on with what I want to capture “beyond the stage.” Those are the most difficult scenes to capture without being intruding on their down time from the stage. That said, I can usually get those shots after a couple of days with me hanging around, along with using a long lens so as to not be in the middle of things and disturb the candid feeling. As for B&W, I take everything in color and make the choice later to process the photos into other color treatments if I feel like it fits the photo.
*grin*
And you’re going to remind your sister if the book goes into another printing so that SHE can pick one up, right?
*chuckle*
Take care Jeremy. You’ve worked hard, and done a lot. Dad would be ever so proud of you.
I too have followed your blogs, and enjoyed many of your photo’s and tips, but not made a comment till now. But like Elaine has said, we don’t want the ’stage’ moments so much as the candid stuff. With the worldwide access of the web, we can see stage shots everywhere, so many the same (front row close up’s) they can become overdose. So much so that I nearly didn’t bother taking photo’s when I saw Donny in Australia in 2006, because I’d be able to see someone elses shots on the web anyway. Better to enjoy the show and soak it all in.
But, on this tour, not all of us can afford to go, and will miss this wonderful event, so you’re going to be OUR eyes. I’m sure your book will be a truely wonderful keepsake to enjoy for years to come. Shame I missed out on the last one.
Have a great time, I have no doubt you’ll come up with some gems.
Jeni
Hi Jeremy
Have seen your photos on Donny.com, they are great.
I am really looking forward to the photos from the 50th tour, especially Perth, Australia.
I hope you are able to do a book from this tour as there is (as you already know) a fantastic and loyal fan base with the Osmonds which spans worldwide! They are a genuine and amazing family.
Might see you in Perth, I am flying over and have treated myself to a new camera for the special event.
Cheers from Oz,
Jenny
Jeremy,
I agree with Elaine and you, of course, about trying to shot a lot of “unstage” intimate photos of the family interactions that is somehow not intruding too much on their privacy.
Is that even possible?
How about several shots of them about town? If they have any down time at all!
Jeremy, congratulations on this opportunity to be a part of The Osmonds overseas tour 2008!
Hello Jeremy,
I absolutely love your photographs, (especially Donny’s)! My most cherished photo of Donny & myself was taken by you in Indianapolis in 2005 and I’m greatful for this opportunity to tell you how much I love it and thank you so much!!!
The “On Tour With Donny Osmond: Photos of the UK Summer Nights Tour” is awesome (I LOVE the cover photograph). It is among my very favorite Donny collectables, and when I read that you are making a book of the Osmonds 50th Anniversary tour, I was thrilled! I can’t wait to get my hands on that! Good luck with all of your endeavors, Jeremy, I know you will be very successful.
Tonda
hi love the photos
just wondering were you at merthyr??
i remember there was a guy doing the dvd i think and he came up towards the disabled persons seating area. i was stood in front of it and i told him about the mud fight that was going on behind us he looked thrilled to find a photo oportunity…was that you?? perhaps i had my jeremy moment then!!
thanks for all the photos
debrauk
@Jenny - I will only be on the UK portion of the tour, so I’ll miss you in Perth. It would be great to be on the entire tour, but my schedule doesn’t permit me to be out that long.
@Sylvia - We’ll see how much I actually see the “around town.” Those shots might be a bit more difficult to come across
@Tonda - Thanks for the kind words; I’m glad you’ve enjoyed the first book so much!
@Debrauk - No, that was a guy name Jarond, not me.
Hi Jeremy,
I love this article but then I love your photos too. I know Donny is only one of your many subjects but you seem to find new and different ways of presenting him to both those who have been there a lot and those that have not. I’m thrilled that you’re working on a project for the 50th tour since I like so many others will not be given the opportunity to really be there and I know you will find some amazing times to show us.
Thanks for continuing to use your unique gift.
Barbara A
Hi Jeremy
I love that you are able to incorportate your passion and create some incredible work. How rewarding for you, and you certainly are so giving of your time and talent to all of us.
I look forward to the next pictures.
take care,
Mali
Hello Jeremy I have the book you done on Donny some absoloutly brillient photos in ther, cant wait for the osmonds 50th book if it is half as good as Donnys we are all in for a treat, I met you at Donnys leeds castle show in Englad I have a photo of you taking a photo of me..
Keep up the good work luv Anne
Hello Jeremy,
I’m happy for you that you will get to share the experience of the 50th Tour. Over the years there have been so many photographs taken of the family and through these pictures we have seen their life story. I’m sure this tour will bring back a lot of memories for the osmonds and for us it will be quite emotional, especially knowing this will be the last time we will see them perform together as a family.
What is lovely is knowing that they will have a friend amongst them capturing all the events, the tears, and the laughter and we eventually will have a book to treasure.
Enjoy the tour Jeremy.
Take care, from Denise
Jeremy,
Really amazing great story. Thanks for sharing the story. Sounds like you have been truly blessed to be able to do something that you love so much. Really uplifting.
It is also a huge sacrifice that your family (wife), is making to send you out too make photos. I look forward to seeing some of the work you bring back.
See you around,
Nathan
Jeremy –
Wow! What a blessing! I am in awe of your ability and your opportunities. You will have so much fun on the tour, and I can’t wait to see your results.
I’ve “almost” known the Osmond family for years. They are always in the “friend of a friend” category, and some of them live in my in-laws’ ward. Because of that, I am always intrigued to hear more stories from people I know who know them.
Have a great time on tour!!!
E
Hi Jeremy,
You will know me as Digital Agent from flickr. From there I was lead here to your writeup on your once in a lifetime opportunity you had and the successes that have followed. There is no question from what I have seen to your abilities, talent and creativity, and Donny’s continued faith in you just confirms my observations. I am so pleased for you and your next tour date, you will experience something again that so many of us never will. I am pleased to have you as a flickr friend and will close by saying the 40D is one awesome camera, I use it as well.
Good luck my friend!!
Ken
Hi Jeremy,
…………If you need any help in setting that shot up, just let me know, I’m sure I have a few friends who would help you out!
Enjoyed reading your blog, It certainly does make your life more enriched when you get paid to do the things you love ! I have always loved photography, a moment in time captured forever, I bought my first camera at 16 (Ricoh) way back in the early 70’s with money my grandfather had left me (And everyone thought I’d spend it on a holiday!) and it followed me everywhere!!!! Alas I dont take so many now, however i think the boxes of memories I have collected encouraged my daughter to take Photography in 6th form as an A level, she loves it, going out with the old SLR and viewing our beautiful Islands’ scenery. I intend to buy her an awesome digital if (when!!) she passes her exam, Can I presume the Canon 40D would be your recommendation? I love the ‘Summer nights’ book and if that is the quality of shots with that camera….then I won’t argue!
I have an image in my head of 7 Osmonds casually strolling through a city street, completely unaware of the hoard of hysterical woman running up behind them!!!
Enjoy the Tour, and be snap happy please because I’m not taking pictures on stage this time, I’m savouring every minute!
Good Luck,
Shona
Dear Jeremy,
What can I say? I think that everyone else has covered it all! You really are blessed with talent. The nicest part of all you do is that you do it with such sincerity and you are always a pleasure to have at a concert sitting on the floor next to me!!!!! So glad I haven’t stepped on you YET!!! Keep up the great work, be persistant with your dreams! You deserve the best! We will always have the memories in view - thanks to you. I have actually learned very quickly to just enjoy the shows…. I depend on you to capture the memories for me. I don’t take any pics anymore… But of course I do carry my camera just in case your not around for my “Donny Moments”
Keep on snappin’ baby!
Sincerely,
Doreen