Shooting some pics of a rap artist - any tips?

[jordan.meeter]

I met this guy on the street here in NYC and bought his CD for $8. It turned out to be a worthwhile investment, as he is seeking a photographer. He wants me to take some shots of him, even though I mentioned that I don't have any fancy lights or a studio or anything.

My first impressions were that he's a nice guy, trying to be a big rap star. I said I would be willing to go anywhere in Manhattan / Greenwich Village / etc to take some photos during the day. He said that would be fine, maybe up in Parkchester (Bronx) where he lives. Being 18 years old and new to the city, that idea kind scared me... I've never been to the Bronx and who knows what would happened to a lost white kid w/ expensive camera? (not to be racist or anything)

So anyways, I've been looking at Myspaces of rap stars to get an idea of what to do... Any tips to make the photo stick out more? [Edit] or know of any cool locations in NYC that would be a good backdrop for a rap star?

Thanks!

[deadpass]

dramatic lighting with hard shadows and high contrast. typically rappers wanna look like they a. have money and b. could kick your ass. accomplish even one of the two and you've got it going on. As for being young, new to the city and going to the bronx, if you have any friends you can bring with to "help" that's not a bad idea.

[MDJAK]

Parkchester is not that bad, but I wouldn't want to go inside the projects or building with my camera.

If I were you, I'd meet him on neutral ground, like perhaps the south end of central park.

mark

[milleker]

I'd bet HDR would look awesome. The gritty over-processed look might work.

[jordan.meeter]

Thanks everyone!