Avril Lavigne Takes Over Apex

A few months ago we partnered with Emily Blair Media and Photographer Madelene Lisella for a shoot featuring Avril Lavigne for the January 2022 digital cover of Harper's Bazaar Vietnam. 

It's fair to say we were all excited about this shoot because of the impact Avril had on our youth. For producer, Emily and Photographer, Madelene, this is project was also one of passion! It can be hard to plan and execute more personal projects working in the entertainment industry. 

We spoke with the Producer, Emily Blair, about this project, working with Avril, her background and shooting at Apex Photo Studios. 

Hi Emily, how did the shoot with Avril for Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam at  Apex Photo Studios go?

The shoot went amazing! It was one of the fastest shoots I’ve ever done but with the amazing content it produced you would make you think it took days. Avril was truly an amazing person to work with and I’m honored I was able to produce it.

What was it like shooting an artist like Avril? 

Avril was probably one of the best celebrities I have had the pleasure of working with on set! She was very kind, sincere, adaptable, and professional.

Are you guys all big fans of Avril?

Yes! Growing up we were, and still are, massive fans of Avril! From the debut of Complicated to Dumb Blonde and everything in between, we have followed her journey and are excited to see what comes next for her!

You mentioned this was a passion project shoot, can you elaborate? Do you get to do these projects often?

Yes, creatively producing a shoot for Avril has been on my list for quite some time now. Growing up she was such a big part of my adolescent years and being able to not only meet but work with her one day was something I’d always dreamed of. It’s not often that a passion project comes to life but when they do I take in every part of it and make sure to make the most of it.

What was your favorite part of the shoot?

Seeing Avril shine on set was a beautiful sight. She was a natural in front of the camera which made it a very seamless experience.

Tell us a little bit about your background? 

I got my start in the entertainment industry at the young age of 17 working for Us Weekly, and I have since covered star-studded red carpet events as a writer and reporter, including the Oscars, Emmys, Grammys, Golden Globes, Critics Choice Awards and a myriad of galas and premieres.

After years of interviewing beloved A-listers and breaking exclusive stories, I became increasingly fascinated by the other side of the velvet rope, and I started sinking my feet into the public relations field. In April 2019, I founded Emily Blair Media to extend my passion. Emily Blair Media is a boutique PR Agency, offering top-of-the-line public relations initiatives specializing in celebrity and influencer management and partnerships, fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and event planning. With a more personalized, tailored approach, we are able to fulfill all of our client's needs in an expedited time frame, allowing for rapid brand development

How long have you been a producer?

I have been a producer for 2 years.

Give a piece of advice to young producers that you wish you knew when you were starting out.

I would advise young producers to consistently network and seek out conversations with people smarter than you. I absorb knowledge and advice like a sponge, and I love learning and constantly expanding my area of expertise. You can never know too much, and hearing others' experiences will only make you stronger at your craft and help you develop your own style. Never be too confident or cool to hear out someone else. 

What is the best part of your job? What makes you the most excited about working in the industry?

The best and also most exciting part about the job would have to be seeing all of the pieces come together after months of preparation. There is so much that goes on behind the scenes and afterhours that really make or break the outcome. Having such an amazing team and support system makes all the difference.

Was this the first time you have been to Apex Photo Studios, if so how did you find out about us?

No, it was not the first time. I actually shot a Playboy cover at Apex in January and heard about it through my friend Veronica Sams who is a photographer.

What are some things that stood out about your experience here? What are some reasons you would suggest using Apex Photo Studios to other professionals?

The staff was great; they were very attentive and proactive to all of our needs! The space was clean and professional and left a great impression on everyone that was a part of the shoot.

 Where can we find more of your work?

You can check out our work on emilyblairmedia.com as well as our Instagram @emilyblairmedia