When you go to take someone's picture, the first thing they say is, what you want me to do? Everyone is very awkward.

...I gave up on being a journalist - I thought having a point of view was more important than being objective.

Most people, especially successful people, are hard-working. They want to participate. They want to do things well.

Irving Penn said he didn't want to photograph anyone under 60, and I think there is some truth about it.

When I'm asked about my work, I try to explain that there is no mystery involved. It is work. But things happen all the time that are unexpected, uncontrolled, unexplainable, even magical. The work prepares you for that moment. Suddenly the clouds roll in and the soft light you longed for appears.

What I learned from Lennon was something that did stay with me my whole career, which is to be very straightforward. I actually love talking about taking pictures, and I think that helps everyone.

I feel very proud of the work from the '80s because it is very bright and colorful.