A photographer's heartfelt plea for help on Twitter has gone viral, but not for the reasons he intended. The photographer, who goes by the name ArtinTheMusic on Instagram, took to Twitter to ask for assistance in paying his rent. He stated that he was a professional photographer and videographer, but that bookings had been scarce and he was struggling to make ends meet.
I need 3k for rent. Im 3 months behind. Im a photographer and videographer by profession. Bookings haven't been coming even when i do R450 and R750 specials 😭 Here is my work: https://t.co/FgwcXDmwjH I have no idea how I'm going to get my business up again. Please assist 😭🙏🏼 https://t.co/a44kMz1phH pic.twitter.com/cMPALbV5f7
— Umthwebuli OyiGhost (@ArtInTheMusic) April 11, 2023
However, things took a dark turn when a woman he had quoted in his tweet accused him of sexual harassment and mistreatment of clients. The woman claimed that the photographer would call girls to shoots and harass them, and that he would target larger women and body shame them when his advances were rejected. She also alleged that he had failed many families that had booked with him and didn't show up, even after being paid.
I’m speaking on this because you quoted my tweet.
— Keabetswe🌬 (@akreana_) May 2, 2023
It has been brought to my attention that you call girls to shoots whereby you harass them and you target bigger women and body shame them when your advances have been rejected.
You were outed as a sexual offender and had (1/3) https://t.co/7NykCPA1kM
The woman's accusation was followed by more comments from others on the thread who also had negative experiences with the photographer. One user claimed that the photographer didn't show up for their friend's graduation shoot even though he had been paid, and another stated that he ruined their graduation photoshoot by making them wait for over four hours on a guest house venue that was paid hourly.
Teddy ruined my 28th birthday pics.I followed him on IG liked his work & reached out.Pressured me 4 payment which I sent then we set a day.Told him needed the pics on the 13th to post on my birthday he okayed everything.He came back asking 4 more money to book the venue which I- https://t.co/KPHX3po918 pic.twitter.com/zuOIn0wL8G
— Veronica (@IAm_VeronicaM) May 2, 2023
Despite the accusations, the photographer denied any wrongdoing, stating that the claims were false and that they were being made to tarnish his brand and image. He stated that he had never sexually assaulted or harassed any of his clients, and that he had never made any sexual advances to them.
The situation has sparked a conversation about the importance of professionalism and ethical behavior in the photography industry. Clients trust photographers to capture important moments in their lives, and it is crucial for photographers to behave in a manner that is respectful and professional.
Good day
— Umthwebuli OyiGhost (@ArtInTheMusic) May 2, 2023
I am aware of the claims being made against me to tarnish my brand and image.
I would like to confidently and categorically state that I HAVE NEVER SEXUALLY assaulted or harassed any client of mine. I have also NEVER MADE any sexual advances to my clients. So the…
The allegations against the photographer serve as a reminder that there is zero tolerance for sexual harassment and misconduct in any profession. It is important for individuals in positions of power to take responsibility for their actions and to be held accountable when they behave inappropriately.
Only if you’re well known I guess.https://t.co/qPVh6hso8k
— Keabetswe🌬 (@akreana_) May 2, 2023
The photographer's plea for help may have garnered attention on social media, but it ultimately took a dark turn due to the serious allegations of misconduct. It is a sobering reminder of the importance of ethical behavior in all professions, and the need for individuals to take responsibility for their actions.
