The World of Photography

This episode contains a parody of a "how-to" instructional video about photography starring noted photographers William Wegman and Michael Smith. Host Susan Stamberg introduces the video as a "spoof on America's obsession with instant self-transformation." The video itself mixes actual advice on successful photography with a more lighthearted take on the art form. The film unfolds over the course of ten major rules. Wegman outlines each of the rules to Smith, who is following Wegman around to determine whether Smith has an aptitude for photography. Through a series of skits, Wegman instructs photographers to follow the rules, which include keeping a darkroom locked, looking good, using model release forms, being creative, and saving receipts. Wegman also takes his new charge on a tour of the studio, demonstrating what a darkroom looks like and how an equipment cage works.