“Directing the Director: A Sitting with Amber Sealey” 1.20.19 Eagle Rock, California

The sensation of needing-to-do-more, which one could experience in Amber’s presence, given her accomplishments as an actor, director, mother, teacher, wife, and writer, would feel more justified if Amber weren’t so generous in her affection for, admiration of, and constant affirmation of colleagues, friends, and family. She is one who lifts us up.

The moment her blue eyes look into yours, under her wild, yellow, winding locks, and she speaks to you, in between flashes of a bright vulnerable smile, all while she stands there with a who-gives-a-shit posture, her power is beginning to grab hold.

I know how to direct actors. Directing a director would be a new journey.

Regarding the shoot, my only direction to the director was: let’s see what happens. What I appreciated most about our time together was her internal strength visible in each portrait. She stands there like a woman who is ready for whatever is coming next and who would employ any one of the power tools in the garage behind her to prove it.

Amber’s laughter, kindness, curiosity, open-heartedness, watchfulness, motherhood, beauty, patience and anticipation were present to behold. I am grateful that I was behind the camera to capture a glimpse of it just in time.