Lights, Camera, Action!

By Ellen Sturgill

There is never a dull moment at The Atlanta Opera! Today, Atlanta Opera chorus member Megan Mashburn, and Director of Development, Bert Wesley Huffman, were able to participate in a photo shoot for The Atlantan magazine. Here is a behind the scenes glimpse of how a photo spread for a major magazine is put together, and how The Atlanta Opera is reaching new audiences.

Creatively set at Westside Foundry Home Furnishings, photographer Derek Blanks, the production team, and Editor-in-Chief, Stephanie Davis-Smith, transformed the warehouse-like feel of The Foundry into a scene straight out of a 20’s movie. The entire team was wonderful to work with and both Stephanie, who has written for GQ, Allure, and SELF Magazine, and Derek, who has worked with a wide variety of celebrities like Nikki Minaj and the Real Housewives of Atlanta, were down to earth and professional.

The shoot began with Megan evoking true Hollywood glamour. Dressed in a beautiful navy gown with jewels, fur, and the pin curls to match, Megan treated those of us present at the shoot (and those shopping around for furniture!) to a lovely rendition of Puccini’s “Quando m’en vo” while posing for the cameras.

Following Megan’s photo shoot, Bert joined the set in a bow tie and sports coat. His set up was simple and elegant, with a beautiful wooden bench serving as part of the backdrop.

The article, which will be featured in the December "Arts and Power" issue of The Atlantan, will center on "The Patron and the Player"- why performers need and appreciate their patrons, and the reasons patrons support the arts. Editor-in-Chief Stephanie Davis-Smith personally interviewed each of the participants for the article. Other Atlanta area arts organizations that will be featured are the Atlanta Symphony, the Atlanta Ballet, the Alliance Theatre, and the High Museum. You’ll have to wait until December for the finished product. Check out more behind-the-scenes photos below. Enjoy!

Photographer, Derek Blanks, captures the moment.

The Atlantan's Stephanie Davis-Smith interviews Bert Wesley Huffman.

Megan Mashburn reviews one of her photos.

Usage of any images on this blog is restricted to The Atlanta Opera and approved news websites. Any other usage, particularly for professional purposes, must have written permission. For additional information, please contact The Atlanta Opera's Marketing Department at 404.881.8801.