Carrie Underwood's microphone

It is always exciting to get a new client, and last week we did our first shoot for Heil Sound. They manufacture microphones for musicians and amateur radio use, and they needed some photos for an upcoming catalog. Michelle, the art director, is based in Buffalo, NY, so we used phone, email, and skype to communicate. Bob and Sarah Heil delivered the merchandise, and it was fun to get to know them. Bob has a long history in the music business, and has been involved with some of the biggest names in rock and roll: The Who, Grateful Dead, and Joe Walsh, among others. He invented the Heil Talk Box, which was popularized by Peter Frampton and Joe Walsh. They assemble the microphones in their Fairview Heights facility, which is noted on their packaging: “Assembled by those who care in Fairview Heights, IL”. Bob is the only manufacturer invited to exhibit at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Some of their clients like to have microphones customized, and Heil has someone who can create almost any finish. This one was for Carrie Underwood, which matched her dress.

Whose mic?

Another microphone that caught my eye was this one, and if you can identify the artist, I’ll buy you a Pabst Blue Ribbon. Hint: He wears a really big hat.

They were a very fun group to work with, and I hope to see them many times in the future.