One of the things I love about being a photographer is the variety of people I meet. I can honestly say that so far I haven't met anyone I don't like. In doing this job I have come across many people that I wouldn't normally associate with. Not because there is anything wrong with them. Just because our paths wouldn't normally cross.
As an example, on Saturday I met Dani. Dani's reputation had gone before him so I knew what to expect. However, I was still a little unprepared for the actual event and was still a little surprised.
Dani is a punk. He has the whole punk thing down to a T - ripped clothing, very tall, spiked Mohican hair cut, body piercings and tattoos. To be honest, if we were to find ourselves walking towards each other along a street on a dark night, I think I would feel a little apprehensive. But, as I said before, I had already heard of Dani and I knew about his reputation. Dani is well educated, well spoken, extremely polite and extremely obliging. He would do anything to help anyone. During the shoot on Saturday Dani worked very hard and I don't think he grumbled once about being asked to do some ridiculous things by the other photographers. He is one of the most likeable, professional people I've met.
When I talk about the shoots I have done or what I have coming up, it's interesting to see the reactions from the people I talk to - particularly non-photographers. What I've learned is to get to know the person behind the image first and not to judge anyone on appearance. In fact, not to judge them at all. It's good advice because they could actually misjudge me (or you), too.