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Big Lights, Big Zit, Big City
July 26, 2005
I've been working on the graphics for the AFL-CIO convention in Chicago this week. There's been a lot of press about the event, what with 4 heavy-hitting unions boycotting. It's a huge set-up, with three enormous rear-projection screens, tons of gear and lighting. It was quite the Parade of Democrats yesterday ~ I saw Senators Barack Obama and Ted Kennedy stroll by my desk and onto the stage. Even John Edwards got up to give a speech, and we all noted his very nice tan. There was lots of talk about working families, and a preoccupation with Bush-Whacking. It was quite the scene, and a treat to hear Senator Obama speak in person. (He's very tall... Ted Kennedy, shorter than expected.)
Anywhooo...
Over the weekend, the crew was running lighting tests for the video feeds, and the senior producer asked me to be a stand-in at the center podium while they ran their checks. For about 30 minutes, (it seemed like an eternity) my face was broadcast on two enormous screens in the convention hall about the size of house. You know what that means? It means the zit on the side of my face was like 1.5 feet in diameter.... real live FUN ~ that's all I have to say.
Afterwards, the assistant producer said she thought I looked "comfortable" on camera. I shot her a dubious glance, and she quickly corrected herself, "Umm... well, uncomfortable is more like it."
Actually, this being Chicago and everything, I kind of felt like Oprah up there on the TV screen... or maybe a little like Eva Peron. There was a moment when I felt an almost irresistable impulse to raise both my arms and belt out the chorus to "Don't Cry for me Argentina"... but I thought better of it. I opted for squinting like a paranoid deer caught in the oncoming spotlights instead.
Just to prove I don't go ANYWHERE without my camera, I shot this picture while standing at the podium. I was shooting at a pretty sharp angle ... but I love the way the crew members are moving through the frame in front of my BIG HEAD. ~ Ha.
Posted by vincent at July 26, 2005 10:52 PM
Comments
Your zit had its moment of fame! I suspect you were the only one concerned about it, but it is kinda funny to hear about. Sorry, but it is. It sure sounds like a fun trip you are having! That's exactly what I'd be doing... visiting all the galleries. The one time I was there, a nearby gallery was showing an exhibit of John Lennon's sketches. That was pretty spiffy, but not quite the same caliber.
Posted by: Wandering Willow 2 at July 26, 2005 11:06 PM
Zits are always funny ~
Posted by: Susan at July 26, 2005 11:09 PM
Oh, heck yes! "Always have the camera with you!"
It sounds like you're having one darning interesting time there!
Posted by: dan at July 27, 2005 11:26 PM