Working with a Hollywood Image Maker: Insider Insights

nal versions to use for marketing and publicity. The photo shoots he’s coordinating can be on set or in out-of-character settings like cast interviews, actor portrait shoots, or red carpet events.

“The biggest excitement is seeing our photos out there on billboards or in newspapers or on social media,” Calefate says. “Seeing that the work is getting out into the world.”

Craig Calefate is a senior photo producer at WarnerMedia, overseeing photography for HBO and HBO Max. While he often finds himself at glamorous events like TV premieres and photo shoots, he emphasizes the behind-the-scenes work that goes into his job. From communicating with photographers to editing photos and coordinating logistics, his days are filled with a variety of tasks.

His love for photography began at a young age when he fixed up an old Canon camera that belonged to his grandfather, who worked for Kodak. This early interest led him to study media studies and visual arts at Fordham, where he honed his skills as a photo editor for the student newspaper. After interning at NBC and working at Sony Pictures Entertainment and Apple, he found his passion in the entertainment industry.

In his current role, Calefate works on hiring photographers, editing photos, and gaining shot approval from actors like Parkey Posey and Pedro Pascal. Whether it’s capturing moments on set or at red carpet events, he plays a crucial role in creating marketing and publicity material for HBO and HBO Max.

For Calefate, the thrill comes from seeing the photos he works on make their way onto billboards, newspapers, and social media. It’s a rewarding feeling to know that his work is being shared with audiences around the world.