Documentary Profiles Estonian Red Carpet Photographer Erlend Staub
A new film explores the demanding life and career of a veteran festival photographer.
1Documentary Premiere at PÖFF
The documentary A Photographer in Cannes, directed by Kullar Vilmne, is set to premiere at the 30th Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival. The film provides an intimate look at the life of Erlend Staub, an Estonian photographer who has become a fixture on international red carpets, including the prestigious Cannes and Berlin festivals.
2Behind the Lens
Erlend Staub has served as the official photographer for the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival for several years. The documentary captures his daily routine, which involves attending exclusive events and concerts, followed by long nights spent editing photos to ensure they are ready for distribution by the following morning's news cycle.
3Physical and Mental Demands
Staub emphasizes that red carpet photography requires the physical conditioning of a military professional due to the intense pressure and chaotic environment. He maintains a home gym to stay fit, noting that the high-stress nature of the job makes physical health essential for surviving the grueling thirteen-day schedule at major film festivals.
4Access and Collaboration
Securing filming access at Cannes required significant coordination with festival organizers. Because Estonia is a smaller market, Staub’s established relationship with the festival was crucial in obtaining special accreditation for the film crew. Organizers allowed cameras to be placed in restricted areas, providing a unique perspective on the high-stakes red carpet environment.
5Celebrity Interactions
Throughout his fifteen-year tenure at Cannes, Staub has captured countless stars, including Bill Murray and Penelope Cruz. A career highlight occurred when actor Vin Diesel fist-bumped him, an encounter Staub describes as a defining moment. He notes that such interactions are possible because he prioritizes making a genuine connection with his subjects.
6Advice for Aspiring Photographers
Staub advises aspiring photographers to embrace their unique personalities rather than attempting to emulate others. He believes that being authentic helps build lasting professional relationships, as evidenced by celebrities who recognize him years later. For Staub, the goal is always to capture a direct gaze, creating a personal connection with the viewer.
7Future Aspirations
Despite his extensive experience, Staub maintains a list of actors he hopes to photograph in the future, including Samuel Jackson, Keanu Reeves, and Anthony Hopkins. He expresses a particular admiration for Sylvester Stallone, citing his professional demeanor. His career continues to be driven by a passion for capturing the essence of cinema.
8The PÖFF Experience
Working at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival presents different challenges compared to Cannes, primarily due to the high volume of local fans. Staub manages the black carpet with a focus on quality, though he admits it is difficult to turn away fans when time constraints force the closure of the event area.