Russell Tanoue Interview

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Interview with
RUSSELL TANOUE PHOTOGRAPHER
By: Marilyn V.- Las Vegas

MV: When did you know you wanted to be a photographer?
RT: It was during my dancing career, I use to photograph my dancing peers. We use to do crazy stuff making them look like someone else. Then one birthday a friend gave me a camera for my gift and since then it's been a passion.
MV: Who inspired you?
RT: It was my cousin Wayne Takenaka a photographer in New York who assisted Patrick Demeirchier.
MV: What do you enjoy shooting the most?
RT: I would have to say shooting commercial projects is challenging but I really do enjoy working with aspiring models and actors or anyone in general. I find joy reaching in one's soul and capuring their beauty.
MV: What's the difference from a professional and amateur model?
RT: Experience would be the difference. But I treat them equally the same.
MV: What do you tell a person who is interested in modeling and wants your approval?
RT: Well, that happens to me all the time. To me, life is an adventure and you have to allow yourself, your spirit the opportunity to taste life. And in order to taste life you have to simply let it happen. So jump in there and indulge! No one should determine your success because I don't think anyone should.
MV: You seem to emphasize inner beauty, why is that?
RT: I'm a firm believer that the most beautiful and powerful things in life are unseen. Society places "beauty" and it's expectations in this world and we associate beauty that way. Being in this business I have felt so many beautiful souls and that is what beauty really is. It's not what we see because it is just temporary, an illussion. Don't get me wrong, in the business we present what clients want in general but when you say why I emphasize inner beauty it's truly because I don't want people to lose track of what really is. Especially in this industry. So having the opportunity to be heard in this industry, I always try to spread depth in those that cross my path.
MV: Do you feel you have a responsibility being a well sought after photographer?
RT: I think we all do. We all have a responsibility in what we do and we all find joys in different things. For me, I try to always speak the truth in the industry to which I think I am mis-understood at times. But, I can't lie. If I feel something is good I will say so. if it's not, I won't say it's good. I tell people to enjoy the industry but don't sell your soul for it.
MV: Have you had any bad experiences in your line of work?
RT: Umm, several actually. One was when I was shooting and the model was doing so well. And my camera went up to 40 exposures and it kept going!! Yup, the film was not taking. Another one was dealing with dark, jealousy. It's so hard to deal with at times especially when individuals start doing things which is really out of line. But I tend to let it go and move on because I do believe in Kharma and I do wish the best for everyone.
MV: What has been one of your best experiences you've had being a popular photographer?
RT: I would have to say my annual Christmas visit to the Children's Hospital. Each child would get a teddy bear and a photo taken for their loved ones. It is so touching to see these kids fighting for their lives. It's times like these that I'm grateful for being able to contribute my talent and time.
MV: On a personal note, what do you enjoy doing besides your work?
RT: Well, I enjoy learning about human behavor interacting with colorful souls and making people see themselves. I enjoy working out, dancing, traveling.
MV: What started your annual birthday celebrations?
RT: For me, my birthday is like my new year. I use it as a vehicle to spread positive messages to my clients, friends and new guest. One year, 2 of my guest came up to me and said they cried when they read my message and that makes it all worth it. I don't know, I feel there is a need especially in the beauty industry to have positive messages because it's a life that moves so quickly. I've seen too many individuals take the wrong path or get lost because of their self-esteem.
MV: What would you like people to know about you?
RT: Well, besides being crazy funny at times, I always express my feelings to people, so most of the people that enter my circle pretty much gets a bit of my heart. But I think I'd say, that I'm very sensitive to people's energy. It's amazing on how I can feel. And also that I'm not into dark energy and prefer the "light".

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