Stalking the wild Lohan

By Karen Tina Harrison | Special to amNewYork

April 29, 2007

Jennifer Mitchell went from p.r. to paparazza.

The Big Career Switch: From public relations to paparazza

Who Pulled It Off: Jennifer Mitchell, 39

What She Does: Mitchell is an NYC-based paparazza, or freelance celebrity photographer. "I'm out there when the celebs are, day or night," she says.

What She Used to Do: Mitchell worked for public-relations firms that specialized in restaurants and booze companies.

Why She Switched: "Publicists are always under pressure to get press for their clients. The work can be very creative, but I needed to be my own boss and set my own goals," Mitchell says. "Photography was my first love, and there's always a market for celebrity pictures."

How She Did It: "I quit my p.r. job and set up a website with my photos. A photo agency sent me out to shoot Scarlett Johansson, and I got her."

What Paparazzi Do: "Every morning, you try to find out where the stars are going to be," explains Mitchell. "I get tips from limo drivers, doormen, and my photo agency. Then I go 'trawling' for the celebs at events, hotels, restaurants, and brownstone blocks. Sometimes I get the shots right away, sometimes hours later, sometimes not at all. I submit the photos to my agency and they try to sell them."

How's the Money?: "You won't get rich at first unless you get the picture everyone is dying for," says Mitchell. "There's a lot of luck involved, but you can make a good income, or better, if you work hard and pay attention."

What About Perks?: "This is the farthest thing from a cubicle job," Mitchell believes. "You get to work outside and for yourself, and there's a lot of camaradarie amongst paparazzi. Plus, seeing your own photo on a magazine cover is the best feeling."

Who Does This Job Best: "Paparazzi should be aggressive but not obnoxious," says Mitchell. "You need great instincts and timing. And it's a hunt, so you can never give up."

What Else You Should Know: "Sometimes the sexiest celebs are the sweetest," she says. "I've had good experiences with Angelina Jolie, Beyoncé, J. Lo, Gwen Stefani, and Carmen Electra."

Where to Find Out More: www.jennifermitchellphotography.com