Wynne Neilly on photographing Elliot Page for the cover of Time magazine
‘It truly felt like Elliot and I had made history together,’ Neilly writes of the experience.
Tekef
Ad Age is marking Pride Month 2023 with our Honoring Creative Excellence package, in which LGBTQ+ creators revisit some of their favorite projects. (Read the introduction here.) Today, our guest editor Lucas Crigler turns the spotlight to photographer Wynne Neilly. Here, Neilly writes about shooting Elliot Page for the cover of Time.
In the world of photography, certain projects have the power to shape a photographer’s career. Photographing Elliot Page for the cover of Time magazine in 2021 was that moment for me. When I received the opportunity, a mix of excitement and nervousness washed over me. It had been over a year since I last shot a portrait due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, making it both exhilarating and daunting to dive back into such a high-profile assignment.
As a queer and trans photographer specializing in portraits of individuals within these communities, capturing Elliot Page for the cover felt like a culmination of my long-held aspirations. It was crucial for me, as someone with personal identification and understanding, to be the one behind the camera, bringing forth a deep understanding of Elliot’s journey and the anxieties he was navigating at the time. The trans experience demands authentic representation by trans individuals, and this opportunity allowed me to contribute to that narrative.
Collaboration and communication between subject and photographer are paramount for a successful portrait. Elliot’s open energy and willingness to engage in the creative process set the stage for a memorable shoot. Photographing for the cover of Time comes with immense responsibility, especially when it represents a highly public and vulnerable coming-out story. The weight of this moment made it a monumental and impactful cover.
On March 16, 2021, when the issue was released, the experience was awe-inspiring and at times overwhelming. The outpouring of support and positive feedback was incredible to witness. It truly felt like Elliot and I had made history together. The images not only showcased Elliot’s strength and resilience, but also resonated with a broader struggle for inclusivity and acceptance. They became a symbol of inspiration, sparking conversations about representation and understanding. Countless individuals found solace and empowerment within the story and its accompanying images.
This Time cover became a significant turning point in my career. The exposure and recognition it brought opened doors to new opportunities and experiences in the realm of commercial photography. It allowed me to showcase my unique perspective and voice as an image-maker to the world.
The experience of capturing Elliot will forever hold a special place in my heart and professional journey. It merged my passion for photography with the celebration of an individual’s journey and the promotion of equality and acceptance. This pivotal moment not only transformed my career but also contributed to a broader dialogue on inclusivity and representation in the media. It stands as a testament to the power of visual storytelling and the impact a single image can have on society.
