BOY CINDERELLA - Tears For Fears singer CURT SMITH

Yes, it’s true! A boy can live a Fairytale Life too! Just ask Curt Smith who’s angelic voice soars over the radio airwaves as ½ of the hit 80s British pop duo Tears For Fears. It wasn’t a Shoe like Cinderella but Songs that changed Curt’s life into that of a Fairytale, especially "Songs From The Big Chair" album which…

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Yes, it’s true! A boy can live a Fairytale Life too! Just ask Curt Smith who’s angelic voice soars over the radio airwaves as ½ of the hit 80s British pop duo Tears For Fears. It wasn’t a Shoe like Cinderella but Songs that changed Curt’s life into that of a Fairytale, especially "Songs From The Big Chair" album which is filled with hit after chart topping hit that helped to define the sound of the 80s along with bands such as Spandau Ballet etc. Why do you ask is Curt a Boy Cinderella? It’s because his story is similar to the rags to riches story of Cinderella.

He was born in Bath, England grew up on Snow Hill which according to Curt is the equivalent of the projects or low income housing. Curt has proved you don’t need lots of money to be able to sing, but you do need talent. Luckily, Curt was born with an amazing singing voice. From a young age, he began performing with the church choir. Later, he started his first band with his childhood friend Roland Orzabal when they were both only 13 years old. The two would later go on to become the singing duo known as Tears For Fears touring the globe, making hit records, and becoming one of the most successful British bands aside from the Beatles in the history of rock music. The two friends took a hiatus from Tears For Fears but decided to regroup in 2004. That is when I first had the opportunity to meet Curt at his Tears For Fears CD release event at the now closed world famous Tower Records on Sunset Strip in L.A..

I was 9 years old at the time. My parents and I waited in line with the rest of fans for what seemed like hours on a school night! We were rushed through a line into the record store and given less than a minute to meet the band, say Hi, get an autographed CD, give Curt a gift bag containing Queenie4ever t shirts for his wife and 2 daughters, and get rushed out the back door by a giant scary looking security guy. Speed up time to 2010, I am now 17 and just found out that Curt actually took my t shirts home and his daughters Diva and Wilder actually wore them!

Queenie4ever fashion designer Tatiana Mclane age 9 (far left) and Curt Smith
(seated on right)Tower Sunset @ Tears For Fears CD Release 2004

Back to Curt’s Boy Cinderella Story. During the Tears For Fears hiatus, Curt Smith moves to America, starts writing and recording successful solo albums, falls in love with a marketing executive Princess named Frances who becomes his wife, becomes a dad to two L.A. Princesses Diva and Wilder, and records a song with a French artist named So called "Seven of Sundays" that I fall "Head over Heels" in love with and have to have for my Alice in Wonderland fashion video. I contact Curt via Twitter, and he says yes I may use his song as long as I give him proper credit which I do and since "everybody loves a happy ending" as much as I do, I am now happy to introduce Curt Smith’s happy ending to you! He’s a self proclaimed "Cinderello" and considers himself lucky to be so blessed from his life’s journey living in the projects of Snow Hill to life in the glamorous Hollywood Hills, he is continuing to experience great success in the music business.

I am so excited that he took time out from his busy schedule before Tears For Fears recent 2010 world tour to let us take a peek behind the scenes of his Hollywood Fairytale Life!

Listen to Curt Smith "Seven of Sundays" featured in Queenie4ever Alice in Wonderland fashion video shot on location Melissa Joan Hart candy store Sweet Harts listed under Sunday, February 21, 2010 blog entry. (click here to view)

Curt Smith Interview

Hi Curt! I have been listening to you sing since I was a baby. I had the pleasure of meeting you in 2004 at Tower Records on Sunset Blvd when I was 10 years old. Tower no longer exists, but at least your songs still live on thanks to radio and the internet. Several months ago, I was doing research for a song I could use in my Queenie4ever video. When I discovered "Seven of Sundays" on your Myspace.. After listening to its romantic lyrics and melody, I knew that it was a perfect match for my Alice in Wonderland theme fashion video. I envisioned "Alice" as being romantic yet youthful and innocent. The style of my video was to be reminiscent of a 1920s old silent film yet modern and magical using bright technicolors to give the impression that Alice had indeed stepped into Wonderland. I had already written the script and designed the costumes. And, now I had found the perfect song except Wait... I needed your permission... What if you said no? But, you said yes... so I thank you from the bottom of my Queen of Hearts!

What is the meaning behind the lyrics of "Seven Of Sundays"?

This was actually the one song I didn't write on "Halfway, pleased" - it was written by Charlton Pettus (my long time collaborator) and Chesney Hawkes an English singer. I believe for Chesney it was about his wife but for me it's about my children. The sentiment is basically that even if things aren't going right you can take a breath, look at your kids and realize how much you have. Sunday is (for most people) a holiday and day of rest, my children make everyday seem like Sunday (Seven Of Sundays)

How long did it take you to write it?

See above :)

What inspires you to write a song? Do you ever visualize places, peoples, or things when you are in the process of writing a song? If yes, what were you envisioning when you wrote the lyrics for "Seven of Sundays"?

Everything I experience is an inspiration and although I didn't write Seven Of Sundays I pictured my family whilst singing it.

Have you ever thought of your current life as being like a Fairytale? You grew up in Bath England in Snow Hill became one half of a famous hit band who toured all over the world then moved to America, began a solo career and now you live in L.A., you are a famous very successful solo singer/songwriter, you have a beautiful wife and 2 adorable daughters with amazing names Diva and Wilder, and you continue to create great music that your fans seem to really appreciate. It sounds like a Cinderella Story except you are a guy.

I am indeed a male Cinderella (would that be Cinderello?) - but seriously, I'm greatly appreciative of all I have and although sometimes it's not that easy (as I'm actually quite a private person) I wouldn't give it up for anything.

You are a positive role model for teens and young people because of how successful you have become. What advice would you give teens who dream of becoming a famous recording artist like yourself?

Primarily stay true to yourself. With fame comes many pressures - people around you need you to retain your success for them to make money, so sometimes it's hard to find someone who is objective. Rule no.1: money does not bring happiness.

At what age did you begin to think about becoming a professional singer?

I've always wanted to sing. I joined the choir when I was 4 and Roland and I's first band was when we were 13.

What artists did you listen to as a teen?

A mixture. When I was younger I loved English pop/rock bands like Slade and Sweet. Got into heavy rock music, Blue Oyster Cult, Rush. Dabbled with ska, The Specials, Madness. Then got into more creative artists like The Taking Heads and Peter Gabriel.

Who are your favorite artists and/or bands today?

Flaming Lips, Kings Of Convenience, The Feeling, St. Vincent to name a few.

If you could perform/record/write with a famous person who would that be and why?

Probably St. Vincent because I think she's so creative.

Thank you so much Curt for taking the time out of your busy schedule to do this interview. I know you are currently busy in the studio? Can you tell us what you are working on in the studio?

I am busy putting together a bunch of collaborations for a new project. My first track "All Is Love" is with the cellist Zoe Keating, and currently I'm doing a track with Melissa R. Kaplan aka Universal Hall Pass.

What’s the future hold for Curt Smith?

Keep working on music as long as I can and teach my children to the best of my capabilities.

I hear you and Tears For Fears are touring soon? When and where?

We're off to Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, The Philippines and Taiwan tomorrow (April 13th)

How can my blog followers and fans find your music to purchase?

All links are on my website - http://www.curtsmithofficial.com

I was really excited to hear that your daughter Diva and Wilder are fans of Queenie4ever and wear Queenie t shirts. That really means a lot to me. It just inspires me to design more cute stuff for girls like your daughters so that it makes them feel like a fairytale princess whenever they wear it and also by wearing my designs they are helping me to keep alive the Queenie4ever fashion fairytale. I dedicated my "Alice in Wonderland" Video to all my Fairytale Princess fans especially the enchanting Smith sisters Diva and Wilder for supporting my dream to be a successful fashion designer.

What are your hopes and dreams for your daughters Diva and Wilder?

That they grow up knowing that they are loved, are educated well and follow their dreams.

What makes Curt Smith Smile?

My family.

Good Luck on Tour and with all your New Projects! XO Tatiana Queenie4ever

Thank you!!

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POINTE AND SHOOT – Malibu Teen Photographer Ali Gilliams

 

Ali Gilliams standing on settee gets perfect overhead shot 

  

 of Tatiana Mclane as Queen of Hearts …

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Ali Gilliams standing on settee gets perfect overhead shot 

  

 of Tatiana Mclane as Queen of Hearts 

  

 result? Ali's favorite photo of Tatiana!

Whether lacing up her satin ballet pointe shoes or snapping photos of famous celebrities including her big sister actress Melissa Joan Hart for People Magazine, Malibu Teen Photographer Ali Gilliams life is all about knowing just how to Pointe and Shoot her camera to capture the moment. To watch her in action is to witness a true professional.

Only sixteen, she already wears an intense expression on her face while framing her photographic subject in her view finder and creating high end magazine ready portraits of a quality comparable to the masters such as America’s Next Top Model’s Nigel Barker or Vogue photographer Tim Walker. Even beyond the greatest fashion photographers, Ali has the ability to use her camera as a painter would use her canvas to create an actual work of art. Her photos can easily be hung in an art gallery alongside those of Picasso and Renoir without seeming out of place.

The vivid imagery, colors, and attention to detail definitely will capture the attention of any patron of the arts to bask in its beauty.  Growing up in a household of actresses, writers, TV and movie producers, it appears the entertainment bug runs in Ali’s family. Ali, a child actress and SAG member herself, is one of  "7" children of her amazingly talented mother Paula Hart casting director, executive producer, and part owner of Sweet Harts Sweets with Melissa Joan Hart and her father actor, writer, director Leslie Gilliams.


Ali I noticed you were a child actress and a member of SAG. Can you tell me what was your favorite thing about acting and what shows, commercials etc. were you on? Also, did watching your sister Melissa Joan Hart act on several successful TV series including Clarissa Explains It all and Sabrina The Teenage Witch inspire you to become an actress too?
 
I have only really done a few projects that my mom produced, including a few episodes of Sabrina and a part in a TV movie called "The Right Connections" that aired about ten years ago. I am extremely inspired by my mother and my sister to pursue my dreams and end up successful; they are two huge role models in my life and I look up to them every day. I liked acting, but I felt like it wasn’t really for me.

You are multitalented. It is amazing that you are an actress, ballerina, and a professional photographer at only age sixteen. How long have you been taking ballet lessons and what made you decide to start taking lessons?

I have been doing ballet since I was two years old, and to be honest my parents were the people involved with that decision. I used to really dislike it and was tempted many times to quit, but when I changed studios three years ago I have really grown to love it a lot.

You are also a very talented photographer. When did your passion for photography begin and do you plan on pursuing photography as a career when you grow up? If yes, then what do you plan on specializing in as I notice you love to take photos of rock bands, fashion, and celebrities. Who is your favorite famous photographer right now and why? How have they influenced your style?

My passion for photography started at a very young age, as I would take my parents digital and disposable cameras when we went on trips and take pictures of random things, and my parents always got mad at me for that. But, when Melissa let me use her Canon 20D when I was about eleven or twelve, I fell immediately in love. It was so professional and so serious, and I loved it. Of course, I had no idea how to properly use a camera when I was that age, but I have taken lessons and I feel very confident in my ability now.

Can you describe your photography style? How does someone looking at your photos know it’s an Ali Gilliams original? What would you say is your signature?

I think a big part of my style is back and natural lighting. It isn’t incorporated into all of my photos, but it is a big reason why I fell in love with photography when I learned how to properly use a camera; I love metering a camera and finding the perfect lighting. I recently learned how to use studio lighting, however, and I am in love with it. I still need to get my own lights though.

If you could photograph any famous person in the world right now who is that person, why do you want to photograph them and where would you want to take the photo?

I have never thought of this question before, but one band came immediately to my mind: Kings of Leon. I would kill to photograph them. They are all amazing musicians, incredibly attractive & would probably be amazing to work with. They are such an influential part of my life, and I am in love with every single one of their songs. I am such a fangirl for Kings of Leon it is ridiculous!

Describe what a typical day in the life of Malibu teen photographer Ali Gilliams is like?

Honestly, a typical day in my life is school, homework, ballet, photography and my friends; that’s all I really have time for in eleventh grade.

Do you do a lot of photo shoots in Malibu? If yes, where are some of your favorite spots in Malibu to take photos?

Yes! I have one more month until I get my license, so as soon as I get that I’m going to go other places, but Malibu is gorgeous for photography. It is all nature induced (my favorite place to photograph people is in nature with natural lighting); there are tons of empty fields, open roads, waterfalls, beaches, forests… it’s beautiful here. The sad thing is that I have actually never done a single beach photoshoot & I’ve lived here for three years now haha!

What do your friends think about you running your own photography business?

They love it! My friends are basically the only people I take pictures of when I’m not doing music photography, and based on every photographer I have ever learned from, it is the correct way to start out. I’m just doing my part & photographing as much as I possibly can, & my friends love it!

How about describing the most awesome photo op you ever had? Where was it taken and who was it of?

I think you mean photoshoot right? My favorite was with my little sister and her friend from last summer. We literally were doing nothing, so we went out into the street in our neighborhood and I brought my camera, and we just started taking pictures. Those are my favorite types of photoshoots, the really spontaneous, fun ones.

My favorite two from them are below:

 

 

I know you have had your photos published in major magazines like Billboard and People. Name some of those magazines describe how you got the gig and who was the photos of.

I’ve actually never had my work published in an actual magazine; I wish I had though haha! However, a picture I took of Melissa is on people.com: http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20282306,00.html

My sister asked me to take pictures of her when Sweet Hart’s was just opening for some press, so I did and one of them ended up on people.com! I was thrilled.

How did you get your internship with Dana Fineman Photography? Please tell us a little about Dana and what you do as her intern.

Dana is actually a local Malibu photographer, and I have been friends with her daughter for a while now. Dana basically brings me along on shoots to help her set up and hold reflectors, and I actually recently shot a wedding with her, it was a blast and an honor to work with her; she is amazing! Check out her stuff too: danafineman.com

You have photographed 2 fashion related events for Queenie4ever so far. I consider you to be one of my favorite photographers BTW! I was really excited when I found out about you through your sister Melissa. I invited her to be a special celebrity guest at my L.A. fashion week runway show, but she was busy rehearsing for Dancing with the Stars at CBS Studios. Instead you, your sister Sammy, and your mom Paula were able to attend. As you know, I met your sister Melissa at one of my favorite fashion designer’s Betsey Johnson’s 60th Birthday Party when I had just started Queenie4ever. I was 9 years old, but Melissa took me seriously when I told her I was a fashion designer. She became my first female celebrity supporter after that event by wearing my designs on the red carpet. She is probably the most down to earth and generous celebrity I have ever met. So you are really lucky to be her sister! And I am lucky she introduced us! Who are some of your favorite fashion designers? Describe your personal fashion style and what are some of your favorite pieces in your wardrobe that you wear all the time and why?

Aww, thank you! To be honest, I am not really too involved with the actual fashion world, but I would have to say my favorite designer is Coco Chanel. I love the classic look. I would describe my style as artistic, carefree, and natural with a little edge. I love shorts, skinny jeans, dresses, short skirts… Two things in my closet I cannot live without are tights and moccasins. I have three different styles of moccasins in my closet & I wear them all the time. An outfit you would probably catch me in is a pair of tights, shorts, Doc Martens or moccasins, a top and a cardigan. I am a very simple person, and I don’t try too hard when I get dressed in the morning.

Describe what it was like to be the youngest fashion photographer shooting my Queenie4ever L.A. Fashion Week Runway show? I was so excited to be the youngest fashion designer invited to present my collection that everything was a blur to me, so I m really glad you were there to capture it in photos for me to look back on and see what my models looked like wearing my designs on the runway. What is your favorite outfit and/or photo you took from my runway show and why?

To be honest, I was very intimidated at first, especially with all of the adult photographers around me shooting away; but I believe I stepped out and wasn’t going to let anyone get in my way!

My favorite outfit and photo I took are below:

I loved your Queenie4ever runway photos so much, I hired you to shoot my Queenie4ever Alice in Wonderland theme fashion shoot featuring some of the designs from my new Party Dress Collection. I know me and my muse Frankie Clarke and I took forever to get out of hair and makeup. I had to sit still for over 2 hours to have my hairstylist curl my hair into that regal Queen of Hearts up do. So thanks for being so patient and waiting for us at Sweet Harts. I know you were busy setting up the shoot with the furniture, props, and lighting etc. Can you describe how you came up with the vision for the Alice in Wonderland Shoot? What kind of camera did you use to shoot Alice in Wonderland?

I just connected an Alice in Wonderland Prom theme to a Mad Tea Party setting, so when I received the correct props I just made sure everything was where it was supposed to be. I just imagined chaos with class. The camera I use is a Canon Rebel XS; it isn’t the best camera out there, but I know how to use it and it gets the job done.

What is your favorite photo from the Alice in Wonderland shoot and why?

My favorite photo is:

Just because this was the first idea I came up with, and I loved the stretched poses with everyone in one shot.

What is the name of your photography business and how can people contact you for your photography services via the internet?

I go by “aligilliamsphotography.” To see my pictures you can either:
Check out my portfolio to see my best work: http://aligilliams.carbonmade.com/
Go to flickr to see all of my photos:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/alihartphotography
Join the facebook group!!:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=332022251184&ref=ts
Watch my stop-motion videos on:
Vimeo (I suggest checking my vimeo before my youtube):
http://vimeo.com/user2844389
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/aligilliams
You can contact me in a number of ways:
Twitter(this is the best for me, personally, unless you are writing a long message): http://twitter.com/aligilliams
Comment on my Blog: http://aligilliamsphotography.blogspot.com/
Message me on myspace (WARNING: I do not check myspace very often!!!): http://www.myspace.com/aligilliamsphotography
E-mail: aligilliamsphotography@gmail.com

What advice would you give a teen who wants to start their own photography business just like you have done by creating Ali Gilliams Photography?

Photography is not a joke; it is an art form. You cannot pick up a paintbrush & expect to know how to paint; it is the same situation with cameras. Contrary to very popular belief these days, there actually IS a proper way to use a camera (I know, SHOCKING!), and no matter how fancy your camera is, if you don’t know how to properly use it, you will not be considered a serious photographer. If you want to be serious, you must take a class and learn. I suggest learning how to shoot on film first, and learning how to develop your own film and print your own pictures; I have learned this way & I believe I am on the right path.

After you learn, just shoot shoot shoot, even if it’s little shoots with your friends, or dragging your camera around with you when you hang out with your friends or go on a walk! Build up your portfolio!!

I really am very pleased with the Alice In Wonderland photos! They really captured the vintage yet elegant youthful modern style I was going for. It is very Queenie4ever! I hope we can work together on future projects because you are an amazing photographer and I have lots more fashion shoot ideas I would love to have you capture! Thank you for helping me bring Queenie4ever’s Fashion Fairytale to life through your camera lens!

XO Tatiana Queenie4ever

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Queenie4ever Films Presents: Alice in Wonderland Prom 2010

Queenie4ever Films presents the Alice in Wonderland Prom & Formals 2010 Collection



Behind The Scenes Of The Making Of Queenie4ever Alice in Wonderland Video

" I'm late ... I'm late ... For a very important date. No time to say "Hello." Goodbye... I'm late, I'm late, I'm late. " - The White Rabbit

And were the cast and crew ever…

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Queenie4ever Films presents the Alice in Wonderland Prom & Formals 2010 Collection



Behind The Scenes Of The Making Of Queenie4ever Alice in Wonderland Video

" I'm late ... I'm late ... For a very important date. No time to say "Hello." Goodbye... I'm late, I'm late, I'm late. " - The White Rabbit

And were the cast and crew ever running late! But, with a little help from the White Rabbit's gold pocket watch they slowed down real time and ran on Wonderland time where the most curious things began to happen when they least expected it. Alice and the Queen of Hearts, spent the morning in hair and makeup at the palatial Spanish style Frankie b. hacienda hidden away in the hills overlooking the city of L.A.. Queenie4ever's personal hair and makeup stylist spent hours curling the Queen of Hearts brunette locks (over 2 hours) and Alice's golden locks into a regal magestic updo and youthful Victorian spiral curls respectively.

Once the heart and bow tiaras were placed upon each young ladies head it was off to wardrobe to don the enchanting fairytalesque party dresses designed by Tatiana Mclane for Queenie4ever's Prom and Formals Collection. The Queen of Hearts was sweet in the palest of pink satin and tulle whilest Alice shone like an angel in pure white satin and tulle. Since the invitation was for dancing and tea, the girls wore satin ballerina slippers hoping to be asked to waltz by one of the boys sporting Old Hollywood Glamour white dinner jackets and black bow ties. Racing down the bottom of the hill, in Queenie's Daddy's automobile, Alice and Queenie arrived in style to "Sweet Harts" actress Melissa Joan Hart's yummy desserty.Queenie4ever’s teen photographer Melissa's little sis' Ali Gilliams was ready to shoot armed with her camera along with the awaiting cast dressed the part to create the magic of a Mad Hatter's Tea Party.

Suddenly Darling’s Katelyn Rose a magical vision in white eyelet ruffles transformed into White Rabbit and then donned a vintage top hat to play Mad Hatter. Tea was served in fine old country roses tea cups rimmed with gold.
Alice and Queenie acting shy at first, sat in the corner like two delicate wallflowers but were soon brought out of their shells when the dapper Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum played by the Kelkar twins Kris and Averil asked them to dance to the lyrical tunes of Mad Hatter's silver french holed flute. The two pairs danced and laughed and twirled and giggled until they finally wore themselves out and decided to have a seat upon Sweet Hart's mile long apple green settee reserved only for VIP. "Goodness dear me! Things are getting Curiouser and Curiouser" Alice screamed in glee as she finds her self spinning around and around in a psychedelic kalediscope tunnel. Oh please hurry! Don’t be late! Alice has apparently fallen down an enchanted rabbit hole! Watch the video to see where she lands! Yes… Perhaps your guess is quite correct, and Alice has arrived for an Adventure in Wonderland…

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LET THE GOOD TIMES ROCK N' ROLL - HARLEY BENSON PHOTOGRAPHY

*All photos by Harley Benson

Wanna fall head over heels in love with Rock n' Roll? Then let's take a peek through the camera lens of Teen photographer Harley Benson who has spent her entire life growing up as the Princess of "Casa de Benson" the record producing/ music publishing Empire ruled by her Dad 2, time Grammy nominee record…

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*All photos by Harley Benson

Wanna fall head over heels in love with Rock n' Roll? Then let's take a peek through the camera lens of Teen photographer Harley Benson who has spent her entire life growing up as the Princess of "Casa de Benson" the record producing/ music publishing Empire ruled by her Dad 2, time Grammy nominee record producer Howard Benson who has seemed to fashion the radio and rock sounds of the two thousands (2000s) standing behind the glass of his L.A. recording studio like a sea captain at the helm of his ship controlling the album's course through a series of recording and engineering tricks from lead singer's vocals to heavy rock guitar licks and navigating his bands to produce hit after hits such as POD, DAUGHTRY, ALL AMERICAN REJECTS, HOOBASTANK, MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE, and THEORY OF A DEADMAN.

And her mom, Monica Benson one of L.A.'s most successful female music publishers who has placed songs in many hit TV Series such as Ugly Betty, CSI NY, the OC as well as popular Movie blockbusters like Miss Congeniality staring Sandra Bullock.

From all night recording sessions to summer music festivals in front of thousands of screaming fans, Harley, her mom and dad, and her brother Grady have seen it all - that is the family business of rock n¡¯ roll. Harley heavily influenced by talent for scouting hit bands for her dad along with her outgoing and friendly personality fits in well with the Casa de Benson motto "Make Hit Records". Harley has found her own niche in the music biz as a rock n' roll photographer capturing the lifestyle of famous rock stars who walk in and out of Casa de Benson like a revolving door capturing their images for historical lore of what it must have been like to be part of the 21st Century Rock Tour. Harley has an amazing eye for getting the shot of the day- the one that says "Rock Star" no matter what her subject may be - a school kid, a relative, or a stranger, the subject's personality is captured so magically in a smile or a pout as her lens hones in on her subject. So rev up your motor and get ready for a wild ride as Harley Benson takes you on a rock n roll tour through her camera lens!

1. Hey Harley we have been friends since we were little girls and one thing that I have noticed about you is that you are really talented and you have an ear for hit songs. One time in particular stands out in my mind, you and I were sitting in the backseat of my parents' car on the way to some museum and you asked by dad to turn up the radio. I swear you knew the words to every song. But when did your love for photography begin?

Haha that's funny, yeah I tend to remember songs really easily, I don't know how I guess it just comes naturally.

I guess my interest in photography started in middle school. I remember always wanting to be in everyone else's pictures and then I got a camera for my birthday and I thought it was the coolest thing. So I started taking pictures of myself first because it was cool back then and then I brought it into classes and just started randomly taking pictures during and outside school. It just escalated from there.

2. You and I have always been pretty entrepreneurial maybe because we are both ambitious types and we grew up around so many famous people in the entertainment industry that it just rubbed off. I created my fashion company at age 9 and you were one of my first friends to actually buy and wear my stuff. You now offer your photography services through your own company Harley Benson Photography right? How is business going? How do people find out about your photography services?

Yes we have both been very entrepreneurial, I actually was JUST packing for Hawaii and found a beanie from your clothing company that I bought from you years ago! Business is okay, a little slow because I have been so busy with college applications this year. But usually people find out about me through friends or just because they're friends of mine that know I always take pictures of everybody. Or through my parents and family/family friends.

3. How did you learn to use camera equipment and take photographs?

I generally taught myself how to take pictures and use cameras. I did take photography class at school for 3 years, 2 out of which I was in the advanced photography program. We have a professional teacher so he criticized our work and I learned a lot from those exercises. I've always just sort of been able to pick up any camera and figure out how to use it. If there's something that I see that I really like but I don't know how to use it, I'll usually ask someone. For example I was visiting a friend in Santa Barbara and he had a camera similar to mine but the pictures he was taking turned out way different and looked really funky. I didn't know how to do that so I just asked him how he did it and he showed me.

4. I know you always have a camera on you so you never miss a great photo op so what's your most favorite photo op of a famous person?

Haha, yeah I ALWAYS have one of my camera's on me... if I'm going out to a party I usually have my smaller one. I think my favorite photo op of a famous person would be either the shoot I did with Tyler from Theory of A Deadman when he modeled you Wong Wear line a few years ago, or the pictures I took of Orianthi, Michael Jackson's guitarist for the "This Is It" tour. She's a new artist, blonde bombshell from Australia. She's very unique from her style and look to her music. My parents threw a party for her this past October so I got to photograph her up close and in my backyard. It was really awesome!

5. What is your favorite photograph that you have taken?

Hmm.... That's a hard one! I have soooo many pictures that I like so I'll describe a few. There's one picture I took in Alaska and it literally looks like someone divided the sky into light in dark right down the middle. There's a cloud over the dark blue water, and the cloud is lighten up and fluorescent white. My favorite collection of pictures is a series of photos I took of graffiti on the train ride from Philadelphia to New York, it's really cool. You can see the difference of graffiti as you go through different areas.

6. Tell me about your favorite camera? What kind is it and do you recommend it to other people who want to learn to take great photos like yours?

My favorite camera that I've used so far is the Canon Rebel XTI. It's not extremely expensive and it takes really great pictures. The Nikon D90 is also really good, they're very similar camera's just from different companies. I would definitely recommend the Canon to anyone who wants to learn photography because it's a sophisticated camera that is simple to learn to use and the photo quality is incredible and clear.

7. Most famous photographers such as Annie Lebowitz and Richard Avedon are known for their special style. How do you describe your special style meaning how would someone know that it is a "Harley Benson" photograph?

I would say that someone would know if it was a photo I've taken by the way the person in a photo looks. And if it's a landscape, I usually raise the contrast levels so you can really see the emphasis on certain things, like a cloud or the water.

8. You are very close to your Dad Howard Benson you guys seem almost like best friends besides having a great father/daughter relationship. Does he encourage your photography passion? Does he allow you take photographs of his bands? If yes, which bands have you photographed and where did you get to do the photoshoot. Have you ever taken photos of your dad¡¯s bands just hanging out in the studio or around your house? How about at concerts? Do you hang out backstage?

Yes my dad and I are very close. He's extremely supportive of me and my photography. He invites me to his studio sometimes to take pictures of him and his bands. I've taken pictures of Hoobastank in the studio at our house and also playing Rock Band. I've taken pictures of Orianthi, as I mentioned earlier, and a few others. At concerts, I almost always take pictures of my dad's bands. Last week was KROQ's Almost Acoustic Xmas and two of my dad's bands performed, Three Days Grace and Dead By Sunrise. I took pictures of both bands from my seat during the concert. When my dad takes me to concerts we usually do go backstage. So both backstage and during the concert I have the opportunity to take pictures. Bands I've been able to see and photograph include All-American Rejects, My Chemical Romance, Three Days Grace, Hoobastank, Saosin, Flyleaf, Meg and Dia, Rise Against, AFI, Alice In Chains, Sublime, and many many more.

9. We collaborated on a fashion shoot for my other brand WONGWEAR when we were 14 years old. Our Rock Star model was Tyler Connolly lead singer of one of your dad¡¯s hit bands Theory of a Deadman. I had a lot of fun working with you on that fashion shoot. Can you remember why we decided to make it a black and white shoot? My favorite photograph you took was of Tyler floating on his back in your pool wearing my Wongwear "Ahoy Matey" graphic T-shirt. It was really cool how we convinced him to jump in to the pool with all his clothes on! High Five for us! Describe what it was like to photograph such a famous rock star and what was your favorite moment from that shoot?

Ahhhh yes that was such a fun photoshoot! I can't remember why we decided to make it a black and white shoot, I think when we were photographing inside, the black and white looked better if we wanted the focus to be on your clothing and on Tyler rather than the background. Working with Tyler was a learning experience. I was a lot younger back then so I didn't feel as comfortable telling someone so famous what to do! But it was a very exhilarating experience and so much fun! I think my favorite moment in the shoot was when my little brother and his friend got to push Tyler in to the pool, that was so funny. Also, since it got messed up, we convinced him to jump in with the clothes on AGAIN!

10. How about your favorite photo you took of Tyler?

My favorite photo from that shoot is the one where I finally got a picture of Tyler jumping in mid-air before he landed in the pool. It's a really cool looking action picture.

11. I love your photography style so much that I asked you to collaborate with me on another fashion shoot. This time it was for my brand Queenie4ever. You did a great job working with me, my set and wardrobe stylist and my model Frankie Clarke to get some really cool photographs that have already been featured in several fashion editorials. So thanks for being an amazing photographer! I really enjoyed the tea party fashion shoot. My favorite photo is the close up headshot of me and Frankie wearing our tiaras, you really captured our image o f being sweet, youthful, and ladylike just like the modern version of a proper the Victorian Tea Party look we were going for. I think the photo of Frankie writing her name in the bathroom mirror with my bright pink lipstick is really cool too. What is your favorite photograph from this shoot and why?

My favorite photo from the tea-party shoot is one that I took of Frankie writing her name on the mirror with the bright pink lipstick. It was just such a cool, unique looking picture and it was all your idea too!

12. You are getting ready to go off to college next Fall. What does the future hold for Harley Benson. What are you planning to study in college and what do you plan to do with that degree. Do you plan on following in your parents' footsteps and work in the entertainment industry?

As for college, I am thinking about photojournalism, sports journalism like broadcasting or something, and possibly the music industry. I'm hoping to still be working with photography in my future but I also love history and the news and current events, and I LOVE watching sports. It's very rare for a girl to be as involved in sports as I am. I watch Sunday NFL football and Monday Night Football with my dad every sunday, I can keep up with all the boys at school when it comes to my knowledge regarding sports. I could maybe take pictures for a sports magazine if I get involved in sports. However, I do have an advantage in the music industry and it would be totally fun to be involved in the music industry. So following my parent's footsteps isn't totally out of the question. I mean, I certainly won't be doing the creative, production or musi cal work that my dad is doing, I just would never be able to live up to that legacy. But I am thinking about doing communications and managing and looking at what else I can apply my strengths to in the music business. I can't exactly predict what the future holds, but I'm hoping to be doing something creative and fun, and enjoying the job that I have.

13. You have been very fortunate to have great opportunities to pursue your dream of being a rock n¡¯ roll photographer growing up with famous music industry parents who work with the most successful recording artists in the world. What advice would you give a teen who looks up to you and aspires to be a photographer in the music and entertainment field?

I would tell any aspiring photographer to not be scared. Don't get nervous when you're with some big celebrity because the shoot won't go as well. Also, have a general outline or idea of what you want the scene/shoot to look like, what equipment you'll be needing, and what you need out of the person or people being photographed. You need to be strong and have to be ready for comments of any sort, critical comments or praising comments. Welcome all suggestions, especially from artists, they know what they're talking about.

Each of your photographs are like little works of art and they should be exhibited in an art gallery. I cannot wait to collaborate with you on an upcoming Queenie4ever fashion shoot!
xo Tatiana

Agreed, I can't wait to work with you again. You're clothes are adorable and i love the retro-vintage look from our last shoot!
Hope to see you soon! XO. Harley

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