How I Got to MaxFunCon

Just over a month ago, I was checking up on Twitter and saw that Jesse Thorn needed a photographer. I’ve followed Jesse and his work at MaximumFun.org for about five years and it’s been an important part of how I stay connected with art and culture. This is particularly true for the worlds of hip hop and comedy, neither of which often get more informed and engaged attention than they get at Maximum Fun. I also consistently find my favorite authors and filmmakers on either or both of the interview show or the comedy talk show. I could go on and on, so if you’re still unconvinced I’ll just give you guided tour of the podcasts. OK?

Jesse needed the photographer for the upcoming MaxFunCon, a famously amazing gathering in Lake Arrowhead, California. I had come to terms with the fact that this would be the third year that I was going to miss MaxFunCon, but when I saw that there was chance to not only attend but participate, and after my wife assured me that I wasn’t crazy, I jumped in and offered my services. A week and few emails later, I had the job and started scrambling to get my mind, gear, and transportation in order.

Last Thursday I flew to LA to attend and photograph the MaxFunDinner that precedes MaxFunCon as thanks to the performers, volunteers, and top tier donors. I got to meet some of the people responsible for my favorite podcasts, including Jordan and Jesse of Jordan, Jesse, GO!, Graham and Dave of Stop Podcasting Yourself, Justin and Griffin of My Brother, My Brother and Me, and the Judge himself, John Hodgman. I also met some of my new favorite people who would be working, performing, or just having fun at MaxFunCon.

I managed to get in a few photos between eating and socializing that night, but this is the tip of the iceberg. If you haven’t yet, check out my previous post at the bottom of this to see the portraits from the photo booth I ran at Saturday’s Country Estate Party. I’ll be back soon with photos from the first day of MaxFunCon.