Michael William-Paul Special Collections; “Waiting for Fidel” Portraits of the Cuban People.
“In 2005 I travelled to Cuba on an international assignment with the United Nations as the official photographer for the IFCC XI, (Intergovernmental Follow-up Coordination Committee on Economic Cooperation Among Developing Countries.) On the Final day of the event with the much anticipated arrival of Fidel Castro for closing remarks, standing within yards of his entrance I was restrained and prevented from a photograph. Frustrated by this I was not satisfied with my Cuban experience. So, when the conference was over I decided to remain in Cuba with Alex, a local assistant I met during the conference . The only requirement from Alex, was that I acted like a cuban for the extended time of my stay; to live, feel, and attempt in a short month to take in an understanding, respect and appreciation for what being a Cuban today was all about. This year 2013 my studio, “MWP Studios” in New York City decided to look back at this journey and release a Special Collection Series of Gallery Photos. Included in this release is a helpful top ten list which you can see below, which pokes a little fun at my experience and offers a hint of insight, should anyone be fortunate enough to have on opportunity similar to mine.” Michael William-Paul – May 2013
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Top Ten things to avoid when attempting to photograph the President of Cuba the Comandante Fidel Castro.
10. Remember that brilliant white cigar jacket you’ve been dying to pull off Miami Vice Style? In order to avoid sticking out like a sore thumb, you best leave it at home. You’re not Robert Redford, it’s not 1956 Copacabana, and you’re not starring in your own hit film, at least not for the moment.
9. Unfortunately that American Passport that you decided to finally get is worth very little in your Cuba travel plans. In this case, similar to health care, you’d rather hold a Canadian Passport.
8. As boring as the conference at times may appear, and as enticing the pool is once the touring Brazilian women’s dance team arrives, catching up on your tan mid-day during the opening session is ill advised and has the potential to lead to a micro-scandal if you happen to be noticed despite on your own goodwill, by visiting delegations.
7. Bring your own salt and olive oil, leave your cigars at home. This is just an FYI
6. Stay away from the Genevian Delegate with the 12-inch scissors in his carry bag, no matter which way you look at it, standing beside him is not going to help getting through security.
5. Do not tell the head of security that he shouldn’t be concerned because these photos are just for the “web”.
6. The 70-210 black sigma lens you’re sporting for that perfect shot of Mr. Castro, looks more like a weapon of mass destruction compared to the old simplistic Soviet Zorki’s and Jupiter’s the Cuban’s are using. Just another useful FYI
5. When detained by a group of 10 young antsy guerrilla revolutionary’s’, lead by a 70 year old with a long beard and short attention span, it’s best to cooperate and be pleasant to avoid complications down the line.
4. The hurried escort through the underground tunnels under the meeting hall and into the detention center may seem concerning at first, so try to keep an open mind and remember your steps for a quick getaway if need be.
3. After being analyzed searched and questioned, keep them talking, they love gossip about baseball, and the Montreal Expos, stall them a bit, the interrogators will grow tired since the equipment they are using to scan and search you doesn’t really work anyway.
2. Even though your security breach may have redirected the Comandante in his closing remarks, and deter you from the photo of the century, that one picture which catapult’s your young audacious carrier to the likeliness of cinematic legends and thus providing economic reassurance to fulfill all your wildest dreams! Do not fret and don’t give up for there is a new adventure just ahead.
1. Keep the adrenaline rush pumping, befriend Alex from the hotel security to host you for a few weeks, move into his northern Havana small brick house with his girlfriend and family, and live like a real Cuban while photographing and moving around the island with the people.
William Idrissi Is the lead press liaison and head editor for Model Ambassador Program, please contact for releases or more information Info@ModelAmbassadorProgram.com
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Contact: William Idrissi
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