Photocalypse: November 2006

The recent departure of a local TV station's chief photographer has sparked a heated battle over who is to replace the legendary Kurt "Special Sauce" Richter. As of press time, the decision has been narrowed down to four finalists. Given that each is a talented and respected individual, it is going to be a tough decision. Thus I present to you... The Competitors for Chief Photog '06!

Competitor Number 1: Beta Tape

Beta Tape has been working for the station for some time now. He is well known around the newsroom for his first-hand familiarity with Beta decks, cameras and tapes. He has been proven to come through in tricky situations and is dedicated to producing top-quality shows. He is a world traveler, having been to Chile, Tahoe and Burning Man in only the past year. However, it is no secret that he is a bit of an alcoholic and has been caught berating interns and production personel on a regular basis.

Competitor Number 2: Yoda

By far the senior member of the staff, Yoda has been working at the station for longer than most employees have been alive. He brings with him experience in this business and an understanding of television news and its impact on the audience. Organized and wise beyond his years, Yoda has proven himself to be a talented and reliable member of the news staff. Unfortunatly, Yoda is also a union member and would have to be paid a union wage (AKA a livable wage).

Competitor Number 3: BabyBear

Frank "BabyBear" Malone is the youngest member of the news staff. A smart and talented individual, BabyBear shows a lot of promise to become a leading photographer in the market. Despite a rough childhood and a past that has included habitual drug, alcohol and gambling addictions, BabyBear has managed to fight the odds and become a contributing member of society. He shows a passion for the television news business and is determined to become a star. However, he has been reprimanded several times for his behavior around the female employees and once for urinating on an office chair and blaming it on a child.

Competitor Number 4: Lil' Richter

The offspring of a former chief photographer, Lil' Richter takes on many of his father's traits. Despite Richter Senior's denial of his relationship to this candidate, the resemblance is undeniable. Productive, talented and short tempered, Lil' Richter has proven to be the driving force behind the news team since his father left. He arrived mysteriously in a basket under the desk of former editor Jed Smith the day after Smith's unfortunate departure, and has taken control of production operations ever since. Brazen and immature, Lil' Richter can be a handfull to deal with, but at the end of the day he gets the job done.

So there you have it, the four candidates to fill the Chief Photographer position. Feel free to contribute input on who should move up in the ranks and become the powerhouse leader behind the news photogs!