CASE STUDIES - BREAKING INTO ENTERTAINMENT PHOTOGRAPHY
Social Studies Show Ep 33 - Art Streiber, Anissa Koh, Peter Stark
The world of entertainment photography can feel like a maze: unspoken rules, exclusive networks, and portfolios that seemingly land on the right desk at the right time. But if you're a diverse photographer, without the benefit of built-in industry connections or institutional support, those paths in can feel even more elusive.
This episode of The Social Studies Show is more than just a podcast — it’s a starting point. A conversation designed to open doors for photographers who might not have a clear map or traditional access.
That’s why I created this episode.
To offer clarity.
To provide direction.
To give tangible tools — not just motivation.
🎯 Why This Matters
So much of the good information in our field is gatekept — shared behind closed doors or available only through expensive courses and conferences. This episode flips that.
It’s not about theory or trends. It’s about real-world knowledge from people who hire photographers for some of the biggest campaigns in entertainment — and who are generous enough to share what they actually look for.
And even if you’re not in entertainment, these lessons apply across all commercial photography: editorial, lifestyle, healthcare, sports, and beyond.
🎙 Meet the Guests
Art Streiber
A legend in the celebrity and entertainment world, Art’s iconic portraits have graced the covers of Vanity Fair, Esquire, and Entertainment Weekly. He’s built a reputation for consistency, trust, and creativity under pressure.
“What talent needs is trust — not just in your skill, but in how you handle the moment. That’s how lasting relationships get built.”
Anissa Koh
Executive Director of Entertainment Photography at NBCUniversal, overseeing work across NBC, Bravo, Telemundo, and Peacock. Anissa has led campaigns for The Voice, America’s Got Talent, and countless originals — and is actively shaping what network photography looks like in 2025.
“Photographers who stand out are the ones who bring a point of view — not just great lighting. I want to feel your perspective.”
Peter Stark
Head of Print at AV Squad, the agency behind theatrical campaigns for House of the Dragon, Jurassic World: Rebirth, and more. Peter’s eye helps determine who gets hired to shoot key art for some of the world’s biggest studios.
“We’re not just picking a photographer. We’re picking a partner who understands what it takes to make a poster that sells a story.”
💡 Key Takeaways
If you're a photographer trying to break into this space — or level up your commercial work — here’s what you'll walk away with:
How networks and studios actually hire photographers
Why showing your style is more important than showing “range”
The difference between key art, gallery, and press day work
How to earn trust with talent and production teams
Why being collaborative matters more than ever
The value of being prepared and emotionally steady on high-pressure sets
These aren’t secondhand tips. They’re lessons earned through decades of experience.
🙏🏾 A Huge Thank You
To Art, Anissa, and Peter — thank you for not holding back.
Your willingness to be honest, direct, and generous with your time makes this episode more valuable than many university classes or online workshops. Your words will impact countless photographers trying to figure out what’s next.
📺 Watch or Listen Now
▶️ Watch on YouTube
🎧 Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts
The Production Crew
Director/Host - Stan Evans - stanevansphoto.com
DP - Greg Hattan - impaci.com
Camera OP/ BTS Photography - Marrice Hill - artbymo.co
Editor - Jeff Moustache - jeffreymoustache.com
📺 Watch or Listen Now
▶️ Watch on YouTube
🎧 Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts
🚀 Why I Built This Show
The Social Studies Show was born out of a simple idea:
What if we made the advertising industry more transparent?
What if we treated real-world creative experiences as case studies — ones that emerging photographers, creatives, and producers could actually learn from?
If you're a diverse creative trying to find your way in, this episode was made with you in mind.
It’s the kind of information I wish I had earlier in my career.
And if it helps just one person shoot their next campaign, land that gallery gig, or walk onto set with confidence — it was worth it.
Stay curious,
– Stan