I recently had the opportunity to chat with celebrity photographer Andy Tsagaris at his sleek Manhattan studio-space. This was definitely a special interview as Andy has photographed many influential, beautiful, and interesting fashion & entertainment icons. Lydia Hearst-Shaw, designer extraordinaire Richie Rich, and celebrity stylist Philip Bloch are just a few of the notables that Andy has shot with his magical lens and creative eye. I was then given the chance to model for Andy as part of his latest campaign, "Be The Link." It was truly an honor to be included amongst all the famous faces and industry innovators. Even more invigorating was being able to delve into a celeb photographer's mind -- to find out what it's actually like to see life through Andy's worldly lens!
Andy: What inspired me is to capture the beauty of things around me. Not just people, but objects, nature, fashion, or a mood.
Dana: Define beauty and what you think makes a photograph beautiful. I think this is a question that many want to know -- what it's like to be inside a famous photographer's eyes.
Andy: Beauty to me is not ordinary. Beauty is not mainstream or mass-produced. Beauty is original, unusual, and different. And THAT is what makes a photograph beautiful.
Dana: I recently was a part of a charity "Be The Link" photo-shoot with some pretty big names, such as Lydia Hearst-Shaw, stylist Phillip Bloch, Tara Reid, singer Kaya Jones of The PussyCat Dolls, Correspondent Katrina Szish, Jaimie Hilfiger, Joumana Kidd, and so many other notable and famous faces. Can you tell me more about the Charity - its mission, and how the people of the world can show their support towards this important cause?
Andy: The Campaign is Be The Link in partnership with Until There's A Cure Foundation. The mission is to bring a deeper awareness to HIV/AIDS and the impact it has on our community by uniting people of influence. You can show support by following us on Twitter @bethelink1 or like us on Facebook. Bloggers, write about the campaign on your site and link to the campaign at be-the-link.org. Visit Until There's A Cure at UTAC.org and make a donation. And also show support by getting tested for HIV/AIDS, practicing safe sex, and defending against the stigma of this disease.
Andy: 2012 promises to be an exciting year. I'm working on a variety of projects that involve charity organizations. I realize as a photographer its not just capturing the essence of beauty but also giving back to the community. My website is updated with current projects, visit atsagaris.com.
Dana: What solid and inspirational advice can you give to the people of the world looking to 'make it' in photography/fashion/modeling or entertainment?
Andy: Everyone in them has something that motivates them, the "It" Factor. Whatever that "It" is in you, believe in yourself and what you have to offer the world. Give it your all and then give some more. And never, ever give up.
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