Last week I got an assignment from the NYTimes—to illustrate an essay by Sloane Crosley on reader’s letters after the publication of her book about grief. It was an out of the blue ask—I didn’t know the assigning Art Director, Elana Schlenker. The deadline was tight and I had a redeye back from CA in the middle of it. But the AD was kind and clear, and we got it done on time.
In the past, art directors have reached out to me about assignments, and I’ve been cagey. This was because I felt that I’d have to create a collage or use illustrator or some other technique I’m only somewhat competent in to be able to address editorial concepts. But after the New York Times art director sent me examples of my work that she liked I realized she was hiring me to do what I am already doing. This might seem super obvious but it wasn’t to me. This is not my first assignment or editorial job—but it is the first one where I used the same skills and style I use in my artwork. I realize I can shoot conceptual photography on assignment—and it feels good.