TN10: Erin Patrice O'Brien, Photographer

Age: 52.

Basic bio: Erin is a portrait and lifestyle photographer based in Brooklyn, New York. Over the last 20 years, she’s captured portraits of industry leaders and trendsetters in the entertainment, advertising, and political worlds, from pop-culture icons Dave Chapelle, Megan Rapinoe, and Tina Fey, to power players like AOC, Mayor Bloomberg, and even the 45th President of the United States. Fun fact: Margit and Erin both worked at the Philadelphia City Paper where Erin was a photographer in the 90s.

Beyond the bio: I have always loved meeting and connecting with people from different cultures. The wisdom that comes with age is not caring what people think about me. Going out alone with my camera always brings me joy. Being able to photograph some of the same people — friends and clients — over the years, it is rewarding to see them grow.

What makes you a grown-ass lady? Being able to say no.

Here’s her TueNight 10:

1. On the nightstand: Water, melatonin, herbs from Dr. Mckenzie O'Brien. 

2. Can't stop/won't stop: Making playlists, coffee first thing in the morning, taking photos all the time.

3. Jam of the minute:
   

4. Thing I miss: Polaroids on photo shoots, land lines, and answering machines.

5. '80s crush: Madonna.

6. Current crush: Mamoudou Athie.

7. Latest fav find: Tizo sunscreen.

8. Last thing you lost: My keys, my mask, my glasses and my retainer.

9. Best thing that happened recently: A weekend at the beach with my best friends from high school and their daughters.

10. Looking forward to: A summer with less Covid.