Thursday, January 13, 2022
I want to say a public good by to one of my first mentors, Skip Hausaman.
In 87 and 88 I had the pleasure of working for Skip as his wedding photography assistant. He had a studio on main Street in Endicott right next to Shapiros mens shop. He taught me a lot about how to frame great shots and how to anticipate emotional or funny moments and to be ready for the shot.
I remember one fall wedding where the table center pieces were dried autumn flowers. As the guests got more tipsy, he noticed one table playing with a tea candle. I was standing next to skip when they caught the center piece on fire. I was standing motionless staring at this party foul as people were either scrambling to get away from the danger or others throwing adult beverages around trying to extinguish the growing frames.
When I was able to blink and close my mouth, I noticed that Skip was circling the table capturing the moment.
After, his advice was, never miss the shot. Expect the unexpected and capture the crazy moments. They are the priceless ones.
He was a generous man and an exceptionally patient teacher. He made a substantial impact on my life and I hope he knew I appreciated it.
Third star to the right and straight on til morning Skip.
Gary Mix Jr
