ALIVE FROM OFF CENTER: THE WORLD OF PHOTOGRAPHY (TV)
Summary
One in this series of arts programs featuring the work of leading avant-garde artists in video, music, dance, theater, and film. This episode contains a parody of a "how-to" instructional video about photography starring noted photographers William Wegman and Michael Smith. Host Susan Stamberg introduces the video as a "spoof on America's obsession with instant self-transformation." The video itself mixes actual advice on successful photography with a more lighthearted take on the art form. The film unfolds over the course of ten major rules. Wegman outlines each of the rules to Smith, who is following Wegman around to determine whether Smith has an aptitude for photography. Through a series of skits, Wegman instructs photographers to follow the rules, which include keeping a darkroom locked, looking good, using model release forms, being creative, and saving receipts. Wegman also takes his new charge on a tour of the studio, demonstrating what a darkroom looks like and how an equipment cage works.
(Series title varies; as above, 1985-1991; as "Alive TV," 1992 onward. Also occasionally listed as "Alive From Off Center II.")
Cataloging of this program was made possible by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, 2001/2002.
Details
- NETWORK: PBS
- DATE: November 30, 1985
- RUNNING TIME: 0:28:07
- COLOR/B&W: Color
- CATALOG ID: T:26240
- GENRE: Arts documentaries
- SUBJECT HEADING: Photography; Satire
- SERIES RUN: PBS - TV series, 1985-1996
- COMMERCIALS: N/A
CREDITS
- Melinda Ward … Executive Producer
- John Schott … Producer, Writer
- Michael Smith … Producer
- Mark Fischer … Director
- Mark Bingham … Music by
- A. Leroy … Music by
- Jay Weigel … Music by
- Susan Stamberg … Host
- Michael Smith
- William Wegman