Photog Brian Finke on Body Builders vs. Flight Attendants
Flight attendants have long proved a point of fascination, especially when they're disrobing in a cockpit midflight while on duty. Or, when they're scantily clad on-air personas getting into catfights over shared lovers and extramarital affairs. So when I first learned of photographer Brian Finke's tome Flight Attendants (out on DUMBO's own Powerhouse Books), I'll admit my interest was piqued. While Finke's photos of flight attendants may seem banal, I figured there was still a possibility that his in-air experiences would offer at least a few scandal-ridden stories. Here's what Finke learned from 50+ flights and the lovely ladies he photographed.
Why flight attendants?
It kind of ties into a lot of subject matter I've photographed in the past ... unique cultural aspects. My last book was cheerleaders and football players, and I did an exhibition with body builders.
Who were more difficult: flight attendants or body builders?
Haha, it was just more difficult to gain access to the flight attendants. I approached taking pictures the same way and letting situations just unfold.
How did the project start?
I started doing fashion photography and photographing a lot of the uniforms. I was flying a lot and doing it for assignment for magazines. And it's a subject that's hasn't really been photographed. I wanted to tell a story about a very familiar subject but something that people haven't seen before.
Did you shoot predominantly international or domestic attendants?
Originally I started doing domestic airlines, but things aren't what they used to be. I wanted something much more classical and nostalgic, so in the end I ended up shooting a lot more international. I probably went on over 50 flights over the course of 2 1/2 years.
50 flights in 2 1/2 years is a lot. Any insider tips for travelers?
I know: drink a lot of water.
Do you have a favorite airline?
I liked Icelandair a lot. And Cathay Pacific. It was a rude awakening coming back to the states; any foreign carrier is more comfortable and accommodating.
Who has the best uniforms?
I like Air Asia; they're based in Malaysia and they have these rich red uniforms. There are a few photographs that I like, but one I am particularly fond of is the one of the two flight attendants playing pool in an airport lounge.
Best food:
Cathay Pacific.
Best service:
Cathay Pacific.
Is there any truth to the stereotype that flight attendants are for the most part attractive and pretty easy?
I don't think that stereotype really still exists; it might just in people's perceptions of things. I think that's something that Alix Browne really explained well in the introduction to the book.
Do stereotypes surrounding flight attendants vary from country to country?
I guess. In Hong Kong one of the flight attendants was telling me that there is still that mystique around the job. It's still this exotic thing. I don't know how much that exists here.
What was the most surprising part of the project?
At the flight attendant school, all of the simulations and all of the rigorous training. The cabins filling full of smoke ... it was pretty hardcore. The training that they go through, gosh, it's tough. And the fact thing they have to go through refresher courses; it's something that is very thorough, and very impressive.
Do you have a favorite movie featuring flight attendants?
I'm never thought of that. But I know there have been a bunch of movies in the past few years ...
Any stories of mile-high member inductions or onboard stripping?
Hehe, that's cute. I don't have one. Maybe that'll be the next book ...
