A Special Live Edition of Dear Art Producer

What really happens after a photographer makes the shortlist? How much does the creative call influence who gets hired? What are art producers actually looking for in a treatment? And when three talented photographers are bidding on the same job, what ultimately determines who wins?

These are some of the questions we explored during a special live recording of Dear Art Producer at MODE 2026.

I was joined by freelance art producer Sari Rowe, Jen Lamping, VP, Director of Integrated Production at RPA, Billy Diesel, SVP, Executive Broadcast Producer at Omnicom, and commercial, editorial and entertainment photographer Art Streiber.

Together, we pulled back the curtain on the process of discovering, evaluating and hiring photographers, bringing perspectives from inside agencies, the photographer's side and my own experience as a rep.

We talked about the importance of new work, how trust is built before you've ever worked together, what makes a treatment stand out, and why the photographer who seems like the obvious choice doesn't always get the job.

There were some candid admissions, a few surprises, and plenty of practical insights for photographers, reps and producers alike.

One thing became especially clear: Great work may get you considered, but there's much more that goes into getting hired.

Listen to the full Dear Art Producer conversation from MODE 2026.