In this discourse, we engage with the esteemed fashion photographer Ben Watts, whose illustrious career spans continents and genres. The salient point of our conversation revolves around the formative experiences that shaped Ben's artistic vision, including his significant transition from various odd jobs to a burgeoning photography career, which he attributes to a combination of serendipity and relentless determination. We delve into his early influences, particularly the vibrant Australian culture that fostered his optimism and creativity, which continue to resonate in his work today. Furthermore, we examine the evolution of his artistic approach through collaborations and the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing industry. Throughout our dialogue, Ben's insights illuminate the intrinsic value of perseverance and the pursuit of one’s passion, serving as a compelling testament to the transformative power of art. A profound exploration into the life and career trajectory of renowned fashion photographer Ben Watts unfolds as he recounts his formative years and the experiences that shaped his artistic vision. Born in England and raised in Australia, Watts articulates the pivotal moments that ignited his passion for photography, particularly during his college years in Sydney. He reflects on the eclectic mix of jobs he undertook, from delivering newspapers to working in fast food, which provided a diverse backdrop against which his creativity flourished. Critical to his development was a Scottish lecturer who challenged him to consider photography as a form of visual communication, prompting Watts to embrace the medium with fervor. This academic environment served as a launchpad for his burgeoning career, allowing him to experiment with various styles and techniques before delving into the professional realm. By integrating his unique perspective as an outsider into the Australian landscape, Watts captures an optimism that resonates profoundly in his work, underscoring the significance of narrative in visual storytelling.

Takeaways:

1. The podcast features an in-depth conversation with Ben Watts, a renowned fashion photographer.
2. Ben Watts discusses his early experiences in Australia and how they influenced his photography career.
3. He emphasizes the importance of staying focused and actively pursuing one's passion in photography.
4. The discussion touches on the evolution of the creative process in photography in the modern digital age.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. vibe.com
2. mademoiselle.com
3. nike.com
4. virgin.com
5. montauk.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Nordstrom
2. McDonald's

The primary focus of this podcast episode revolves around the esteemed Nigel Barker, who engages in a comprehensive dialogue regarding his illustrious career, particularly highlighting his innovative espresso martini. As we traverse through the nuances of his journey, we delve into his transformation from a successful model to a prominent photographer and television personality. The conversation is enriched by reflections on the nature of creativity, the challenges of the fashion industry, and the intricate processes involved in crafting an exceptional cocktail. Through this exploration, we witness Nigel's deep passion for his craft, which extends beyond mere product creation to embody a profound connection to artistry and personal expression. This episode serves not only as an insightful narrative of Nigel's professional evolution but also as an invitation to appreciate the artistry behind the perfect espresso martini.

The episode features a captivating conversation with the distinguished Nigel Barker, who shares insights into the genesis of his renowned espresso martini. Our dialogue traverses an array of topics, including the intricacies of cocktail culture and the unique challenges associated with crafting this beloved beverage. We delve into the historical context of the espresso martini, exploring its rise and subsequent decline in popularity, and the current resurgence it is experiencing in contemporary cocktail menus. Additionally, Mr. Barker articulates his vision behind the creation of his product, emphasizing the significance of quality ingredients and the artistry involved in cocktail preparation. The episode culminates in a spirited discussion on the broader implications of creativity and passion within the realms of both mixology and photography.

In this the first episode of An Audience at 8 podcast

Host Gary Spencer who has a Hospitality and Fashion Model background talks to Nigel about his life and how he now has a successful Espresso Martini company

Nigel also talks about his charity work , his documentary film making , and how he became a judge on Americas Next Top Model for 17 seasons

This podcast was recorded in NYC and also filmed for You Tube

1 An Audience At Eight hosted by Gary Spencer website Full Episode

Takeaways:

1. The podcast features a comprehensive discussion about the origins and evolution of the espresso martini, highlighting its cultural significance.
2. Nigel Barker shares his journey from modeling to photography, emphasizing the importance of creativity in both fields.
3. The conversation addresses the challenges and nuances of creating high-quality cocktails, particularly the espresso martini.
4. Listeners gain insights into the cocktail industry, including market gaps and the importance of authenticity in product development.
5. An exploration of the impact of reality television on the modeling industry is presented, particularly through the lens of America's Next Top Model.
6. The episode underscores the importance of resilience and creativity in overcoming challenges, both personally and professionally.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Harry's
2. Vive Clicquot
3. Voss...