How to take a good publicity shot

I usually don’t like it when artists hold their instruments in press photos, but because these are otherwise so spot-on, I’m willing to make exceptions. Here are some new artist publicity shots that I think are just fantastic, courtesy of my gal pal Opera Chic. Note how the photos capture each artist’s unique personality and musical aesthetic, and are artistic without being artsy.

Béla Fleck:

Sarah Palin:

Edgar Meyer:

The God Pan:

John Cage and Merce Cunningham:

Jordi Savall:

Someone get Jordi Savall some cheese.