A Little Adventure

[TL;DR A filmmaker asked if I wanted to be in a commercial, which I declined. He then offered a free photo shoot—which I accepted. We took these photos and a few others at Big & Littles diner, a cafe, and beneath train tracks by my old job.]

I’ve been wanting to write for a while, but have been neglecting this blog. I originally posted this on my Instagram, but thought it made sense to let this little story live here as well.

Two Januaries ago, I was leaving a cafe by my office after a long day of work. I struggled to open my umbrella against the downpour outside. Before the door shut behind me, I felt a hand at my arm and heard someone say, “Pardon me?”

I turned to see a curly-haired man with camera equipment slung over his shoulder. He introduced himself as a filmmaker from England visiting Chicago to direct a commercial—for some jet company I don’t remember the name of—and wondered if I’d be interested in playing the part of one the flight attendants. Note: I’ve always secretly wanted to be an extra, so my immediate internal reaction was a resounding OF COURSE. But after my initial shock, what I managed to say was: “Oh I don’t think I can since I have work tomorrow, but thanks for asking!” Also note: my fear of taking a bit of PTO superseded any anxiety about stranger danger.

I said I’d let him know if I changed my mind, he handed me his business card, and we parted ways. As soon as I got home, I looked him up on IMDb—confirming he was, yes, a legit filmmaker. On one hand, I was relieved I didn’t almost agree to some shady gig. On the other hand, I regretted not embracing the moment and saying yes to a little adventure.

Later, I messaged him to confirm my decision not to help with the commercial. In response, he graciously offered to take portraits of me with his film camera—a creative project he was willing to do for free. How could I say no? We went to a local diner, got an order of fries, and he took my picture from the other side of the window. A simple, spontaneous moment. A reflection I appreciated then, and appreciate even more now.

Anyway, here’s to saying yes more often.