Mr. T ...Gold Chains ...Gaffer Tape

We had the opportunity and distinct pleasure of shooting Mr. T for a McDonald's poster. And adding him to our "Don Levey makes Celebrities Happy" wall of fame which also includes, to name a few, the likes of Michael Jordan, the Bears, the Dodgers, Commodores, Mayor Washington, Lily Tomlin, and many other superstars! Exactly as I had seen it unfolding, the entire experience of shooting Mr. T was a true delight...a superb gentleman! He was very cordial and businesslike with crew, client and all the members in our peanut gallery. Great memories...

Of course Mr. T was the star of the show, but I wanted his gold chains and jewelry to not be an after-thought of his portrait. Both he and his gold had to look perfect. Placement of additional lights and cards was needed, gently lighting the gold but not to "over light" Mr. T.

Mr. T carefully removed his jewelry from small velvet bags. He placed each chain around his neck in sequence very systematically. It was a great "getting to know one another" period. He was very purposeful in a fun way, explaining the symbolism about the gold chains, along with the meaning of his taped-up boots. By the time his final chain was put in place, the entire crowd in the studio was having a happy, laughing good time!

We needed the "strong and serious" Mr. T for our shot, and had a tough time getting away from the happy, good time we were having! Our shoot was efficient and fun! Mr. T followed my lead for the most part on all the poses and expressions. Our energies reflected perfectly off of each other...results: way more great shots to use than were needed. And it was "Mr.T" approved too! Now about the boots and tape?

Mr. T said: "I wear my father's boots with pride because they help me not to forget where I came from and they tell me that I have to finish his journey". I couldn't help but notice his boots might need some additional tape soon. Mr. T and I got along so well, that he allowed me to give him a roll of my gaffer tape for his beloved boots. He's a genuine and terrific person!