#FFB: Justin Patterson

All of the people I've featured on Fit for Broadway inspire me daily in one way or another. Sometimes it's as simple as seeing glimpses of their lives on Instagram and admiring their hard work and dedication. I was continuously admiring a select few photos from photographer Justin Patterson and the more I saw, the more I liked! Past FFB features Beth, Amanda, Paloma, and Ashley were all captured in their complete essences in Justin's photography and I knew I had to collaborate with him! I quickly arranged for a meeting and had the best time getting to know and work with Justin! He is such an awesome human being and now adds to my daily inspiration through his work as an actor and photographer making Justin,

FIT FOR BROADWAY!

INTERVIEW:

Q: Justin! This has been so long in the coming! Originally I found you through your photography of some of the Broadway fitness girls I've interviewed. You have such a fantastic way of capturing personalities and beautiful physique! How did you first get into photography and how have you developed your style?

A: Thank you! I’m so honored to be featured on this awesome blog! I’ve been interested in some form of photography my whole life. I think I’ve always had some sort of camera for as long as I can remember. I had explored with it a little here and there, however, it wasn’t until about 4 years ago that I started really following this passion. My style is always developing and changing. I’m really inspired by photographers Jeremy Cowart, Annie Leibowitz, and Miller Mobley. They’re styles always catch my eye and give me inspiration. As far as my subjects, I’ve been extremely lucky to work and shoot with so many talented and fascinating people. They are what makes me feel so lucky to do what I do!

Q: I had pretty much labeled you as the photographer behind the fitness models...Beth, Amanda, Ashley, Paloma. They all have gorgeous photos by you. How did you discover that was your niche?

A: Well, I wouldn’t really say that it is my absolute niche, but it is a genre that I love. I really just fell into the fitness photography. Someone asked me to shoot some fitness looks for them. Then word of mouth spread, and my style started developing more. It’s so much fun!

Q: You're also an actor! Which came first, acting or photography?

A: Acting came first! It’s the whole reason I’m in NYC in the first place. It is still my first love, but I get such a thrill out of having other passions. I’ve always taken so much pride in being a well rounded person!

Q: When you're in a show, how do you stay healthy to keep up with the demanding schedule?

A: Every show is different in its demands for each performer. I think you really have to watch what you eat and drink in moderation of course. Most importantly, I would say, would be sleep. It’s a powerful thing!

Q: What was your journey like to Broadway?

A: I spent years of training at a performing arts high school in my home state of Georgia, and the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music for college. After that I had about 5 years of regional shows, a national tour, and odd jobs before I landed my first show on Broadway. That was All Shook Up! It was a battle, and very frustrating at times. However, patience and perseverance pays off!!!

Q: AND you're a dad!! You must have a ton of energy! What's your secret to keeping your life in balance?

A: Actually, I don’t have tons of energy! Lol! It’s amazing what happens, though, when you become a parent. Things you didn’t think you could do or live through just become your normal. I have such little time throughout the day to get important things accomplished. It’s about managing your time appropriately and getting as much sleep as you can! Wait, sleep…Ha!

Q: Do you keep up with your voice and acting when you're not in a show? Ie: a daily or weekly regime?

A: Yes! I’m always singing. I don’t know what I would do without it. I’m always trying to get better with those aspects of performing. However, I don’t really take any classes in my downtime. It’s hard enough trying to juggle my full plate as it is.

Q: Quote to live by…

A: “Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.” -Dalai Lama

Q: If you had a day to choose anyone you wanted to photograph, who would it be?

A: Geez, that’s tough. I would love to have photographed my Grandaddy Perk. He was my mother’s father, and died when she was 10. He was a photographer himself and always dressed so dapper. I think we would’ve had a blast shooting and talking with each other.

Q: Who's been your greatest inspiration in musical theatre/acting?

A: As much as I’d like to answer that with one name, I simply can’t. There are so many people who have inspired me in some form or another. Whether it be a family member, friend, teacher, director, writer, or fellow actor. It takes a village!

Q: What's your advice for those trying to pursue musical theatre?

A: As cliché as it sounds, you have to hang in there. Work hard and persevere and it will pay off! It’s a tough business, but you can’t let it get the best of you!

MY EXPERIENCE

Justin and I initially met to discuss the feature and it was through his questions and attention to detail that I realized how much the process would actually serve as a collaboration. The approach was refreshing and so far from anything I've ever experienced with past photographers. After deciding to focus on headshots and portraits, Justin and I started a photostream to share inspiration for the shoot. It allowed us to focus on a very clear esthetic that would represent each of us clearly. Amazing, right?! Most photographers I've worked with snap & shoot, bill you, and leave you having no idea what you'll end up with! Definitely not the case with Justin because I was equally part of the creative process. We decided on standard headshots and very feminine, Vanity Fair type portraits. He helped me decided on wardrobe, makeup, and hair so our shoot had a very clear plan.

Our photoshoot was an absolute blast! The collaboration continued throughout the entire shoot. Justin asked questions, helped make decisions, and most importantly always respected my opinion. And one of my favorite parts?! He let me look at the photos as we worked! This was good for both of us. It allowed us to give feedback about what we liked, what we didn't like, and what we still hadn't captured. I've only worked with photographers who basically hide the photos the entire time, allowing you to see only one or two before you leave which is no fun!

I can honestly say there wasn't a negative thing about the entire experience. (Apart from having too many photos to choose from!!) A huge Thank You to Justin for showing me a true collaboration and for inspiring me in so many ways. We're already talking about doing another photoshoot! : )