Stuart Graves’ “old-school” camera and knack for timing has helped him to snap selfies with some of the most famous names in Hollywood. He’s spent years running around Park City’s Main Street asking celebrities for a selfie, old-school camera in hand. Dubbed #StuartSelfies by Salt Lake, his documented celebrity encounters include names like Anne Hathaway, Bella Thorne and Jack Black. He won’t be in attendance this year (and will be sorely missed), but he gave us some of his tried and true tips to get a photo with a star during Utah’s last year hosting the festival.
Graves takes a selfie with Anne Hathaway. (Photo courtesy of Stuart Graves).
What’s your number one rule for approaching celebrities respectfully at Sundance?
“I ALWAYS ask if I can have a photo with them. I don’t just assume they do, and I’ve found that courtesy goes a long way. Also, I approach them from the front, so they can see who is coming at them.”
Where are the best spots to encounter celebrities without being intrusive?
“The best places to see the celebrities are at the various media/entertainment lounges. Examples would be Hollywood Reporter, Variety, et cetera.”
How do you “read the room?” When is it appropriate to ask vs. when to back off?
“I ask when the crowd isn’t too big, and I’m quiet about it if I see a celebrity that doesn’t have people around them. I absolutely back off if there is a large crowd swarming a celebrity.”
Stuart Graves and Timothy Simmons.
Stuart Graves with Stephen Dorff.
Stuart Graves with George Stephanopoulos.
Stuart Graves with Gael Garcia Bernal.
Stuart Graves with Emilia Jones Brimstone.
Stuart Graves with Bella Thorne.
Stuart Graves with Brooke Shields.
Stuart Graves with Boots Riley.
Stuart Graves with Ben Wishaw.
What’s your approach in the moment/what do you say when you ask for a selfie?
“I use an actual camera (a point-and-shoot Canon), so I ask “can I get an old school selfie”. It’s been a good icebreaker.”
Who has been your favorite celebrity to meet?
“My favorite celebrity has been Molly Shannon. She is so gracious and friendly with every single fan. Always smiling. I’ve gotten photos with her several times, and the last time she even recognized me.”
Graves said Anne Hathaway is a close second.
Have you ever mistaken a non-famous person for a celebrity?
“There was a woman that looked so much like Blythe Danner. I actually saw her twice. I’ve gotten selfies with Blythe a couple of times.”
If someone rejects your selfie request, how do you respond?
“I have had a handful of folks say no, and I remain polite. I usually say something like, “no worries, enjoy your time here.” One evening I asked Jon Hamm for a photo and he said no. I was polite and even saw him a second time that evening, but just smiled and nodded. The next day he was making the media rounds, and people were asking for selfies and he was saying no to everyone. He saw me and waved me over and I got a photo.”
Worst mistake you see people make when they spot someone famous?
“The worst mistake is people that get angry at the celebrity when they say no to a selfie. I’ve even seen a fan swear at them for saying no.”
Any memorable interactions that taught you something about the best way to do this?
“The Jon Hamm incident I mentioned before. Be polite if they say no. You might get another chance.”
This is Sundance’s last year in Utah. Any final advice for people who want to make the most of celebrity encounters?
“Final advice is, treat celebrities with respect. You have no idea what kind of day they’ve had, or what they might be going through. Everyone deserves common courtesy.”
