Son, you’ve got all three!

Many years ago I had the privilege to photo-assist with Johnny Cash and Rolling Stone Photographer Mark Seliger just outside of Nashville Tennessee. We arrived earlier in the day to Johnny Cash’s property in  Hendersonville to shoot one of his greatest hits album art. 

I and another assistant scouted locations on his property and pre-lit the sets. We had four set variations with the last at the House of Cash. On our first set, we set a large Octobox outside near a large downed tree. When Johnny arrived he asked Mark where we wanted him. He got in position and I stood there holding on the light stand. Yes, I was a human sandbag! 

While things were being set I would talk with Johnny in the between moments. Wanted to keep him relaxed and engaged so I asked him if he had much storm damage. He seemed glad to just talk about normal agricultural stuff. Occasionally he would glance at Mark and those swirling around the set with what I thought was some agitation. Thus our conversation. 

Mark did a great job at capturing him and then we transitioned to the next set nearby. As Johnny got into position Mark shot a polaroid and I was loading Mamiya RZ film backs. While Mark was looking through the stove pipe-style viewfinder he noticed with some alarm Johnny had stepped out of frame. Looking up he saw Johnny walking toward him in the direction of his house. 

When he got close to him Mark frantically asked. “Mr. Cash we are not done yet.” Johnny seemingly annoyed with his New York mannerisms said, “Now hold on Son. I’ve got three looks and you got all three. I’m going back to the house now and having a nap.” Shoot over!