Tuesday, June 28, 2016

1958...NY memories continued ... POPSY

When I met Dick in NY City he was in the throes of beginning his own free lance photography business. The two years that he'd spent as an assistant photographer at “LIFE” magazine opened many doors for him and he took advantage of that.


One acquaintance was a big Greek man named Popsy who had been the band boy for Benny Goodman. When the “Big Band Era” came to an end Benny asked Popsy what his plans were for the future. Popsy told him that his dream had always been to be a photographer so Benny set him up with a small studio in the NY City Theater District

Popsy would be the first to tell you that he was no artist when it came to taking pictures but he had the basics and the actors and actresses flocked to his studio. It was close to their work and they were also lured to Popsy because of his proximity to famous musicians. 

When Dick went out on his own he couldn't afford a studio so it was a win-win situation when he teamed up with Popsy. Dick would have use of his studio and darkroom and, in return, he would teach Popsy some of the finer points of photography. I have fond memories of the many times I would meet them after work at the studio. It was usually for Chinese take-out and a recap of the day.
In my next blog entry I will tell you about a once-in-a-lifetime experience that could only have come true through our friendship with Popsy.

6 Comments:

Blogger Marie Smith said...

Such a great memory. I think in the past people were more generous with sharing their space, knowledge and skill. The world seems more cut-throat today. I look forward to the next installment.

5:11 PM  
Blogger joared said...

Sounds like interesting times!

1:46 AM  
Blogger Anvilcloud said...

It seems like a good partnership. It would be good, especially in those days, to have a mentor. It would still be good today, but there are a lot of resources available now.

3:51 AM  
Blogger possum said...

Can't wait for the next installment!

6:01 AM  
Blogger Arkansas Patti said...

That was a win/win for both of them. Popsy could learn and Dick was exposed to an "in" croud plus spared set up expense. Looking forward to the stories to come.

1:10 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

A very fine partnership. Happy Dick realized his dream, so many don't

9:49 AM  

Post a Comment

<< Home