An Evening of Jewish Dialogue on Antisemitism in Media

New York City, the city that never sleeps, is always alive with events that hold the potential to shape conversations, break stereotypes, and inspire change. One such event, Media’s Role in Combating Antisemitism: Jewish Representation on Television, was the latest program in the PaleyImpact series held on June 15th, 2023 at the Paley Center for Media, a place teeming with cultural and social significance​​. As a photographer, my mission was not to capture the engaging discussion but to photograph the vibrant energy of the red carpet – a stage in itself.

Stepping into the Paley Center for Media for the first time, I was met with the bustling sound of anticipation. The venue, nestled on West 52nd Street, has a rich history of fostering discussions about the evolving media landscape​​. The building hums with stories, and as a photographer, it's my job to capture the essence of those narratives through the lens.

The red carpet was a whirlwind of excitement, filled with a bevy of renowned personalities and creators. Actress Julianna Margulies, radiating elegance in a short-sleeved black dress, was one of the first to grace the carpet​​. Her confidence was palpable, a testament to her years of experience in the industry.

Julianna Margulies

As a photographer, capturing these moments requires a keen eye and swift reactions. The red carpet is a fast-paced environment, with celebrities, creators, and cultural leaders all converging under the dazzling lights. Each personality presents a unique challenge and opportunity, offering a different story that needs to be framed and captured.

Jason Zinoman

What I found particularly interesting was how the red carpet at the PaleyImpact event was more than just a procession of glamorous outfits. It was a platform where meaningful conversations began even before the main event. The attendees' engagement with the event's theme reflected their shared commitment to challenging stereotypes and promoting authentic representation.

To capture these moments, one must be aware of the lighting conditions, swiftly adjust camera settings, and most importantly, understand the personalities of those in front of the lens. For instance, capturing a candid laugh or a thoughtful look can say more about the event's atmosphere than a posed shot. These are the images that stand out, the ones that truly capture the essence of the event.

Adam Goldberg

The PaleyImpact event wasn't just about tackling antisemitism or discussing Jewish representation on TV. It was about highlighting the role of media in shaping these conversations. As a photographer, capturing the red carpet was a way of participating in this dialogue, freezing moments in time that underline the importance of representation and conversation in combating stereotypes.

Photographing the red carpet at the Paley Center was more than an assignment; it was a unique opportunity to frame important cultural conversations and a vibrant spectrum of personalities in a single event. Each snapshot not only encapsulates a moment in time but also contributes to a larger narrative about the role of media in combating stereotypes and promoting authentic representation. As a photographer, it's not just about the aesthetic of the image; it's about the story each image tells, the conversations it sparks, and the change it can inspire.

Adam Goldberg, Menachem Rosensaft, Maureen J. Reidy, Julianna Margulies, Jason Zinoman