Professional photogragher John Beebe is partnering with the Democratic National Committee to create more than 100 black-and-white portraits of delegates, politicians and celebrities during this week’s convention.
Beebe has set up a makeshift studio at the Colorado Convention Center. He takes and develops the photos there using equipment provided by Hewlett Packard and Nikon. When they’re finished, Beebe hangs the large-scale photos, which measure about two feet by three feet, outside his photographer’s tent.
Although medium-sized versions of the photos are available for purchase, Beebe doesn’t expect to make much from their sale. Additionally, the photos will be projected on a large screen at the Pepsi Center and are also being posted on the Web.
Just a year ago, Beebe was a high school teacher. He made a name for himself as a photographer by taking street photographs of people in Toronto, where he now lives. He’s hoping that his exposure at the convention will be another boost for his business.
Despite his corporate sponsors and funding from the Democratic Party, Beebe said the biggest investor in the project has been Visa.
“My credit card,” Beebe said. “I’m taking a huge, huge risk.”
