Chapter 33: Photographer

“Use Today University photos as a profile?”

“Yes. Is that okay?”

Surprised by the unexpected remark, Gyeongmin fiddled with his chin. It wouldn’t be a problem. Actors who work alone without an agency sometimes post selfies or ID photos.

“I’ll have to talk to them, but it shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Right. It’s not a commercial magazine.”

Na Geumdong, who was listening from the side, quietly chimed in.

“Then what is it?”

“It’s published by a small publisher called V-People, but the editing and planning are handled by the Seoul National University Autonomous Organization Union. For example, photography is done by the photography department, costumes by the fashion department, design by the CD department, and columns by the journalism department.”

“Wow. That’s really cool.”

Muyoung was impressed. It’s truly an ideal university activity. Different schools and departments come together every month to publish a magazine! I can see why it’s famous among college students.

“They got off to a good start from the beginning.”

“They select cover models who are worth looking at, which creates a lot of buzz and a positive cycle. It’s good for both the writers and the people featured to build their resumes. It’s a win-win situation, literally!”

It had already been a five-year tradition in the university community. Ko Gyeongmin began organizing the photos scattered on the table.

“Apply first. It’ll be a fun experience. If you get in, I’ll have the company contact you. But why? Don’t you like any of the photographers?”

It was a little disappointing.

I wanted the profile to turn out great, but he wants to use a college student photographer! But what can I do? It’s Muyoung’s opinion, so I have to respect it as much as possible.

“Well, that’s one thing—”

In response to Ko Gyeongmin’s question, Muyoung just laughed. He was thinking hard about what to say.

“It’s free!”

“What?!”

At his words, Na Geumdong’s mouth fell wide open. He grabbed his hand and fidgeted excitedly. His eyes quickly became moist.

“Oh, Muyoung! We can do that much for you! You’re family who’s come back after years—!”

“Hahaha. I know. I was joking. I just didn’t find anything that really appealed to me.”

“Really?”

“Really!”

Muyoung smiled broadly and shook his hand firmly. Ko Gyeongmin watched from the side.

‘How do a middle-aged man and a kid who’s just turned twenty get along so well? They’re a perfect match.’

He muttered to himself and clicked his tongue. Of course, his boss was a bit odd. Then, at that moment,

Beep-beep. Beep-beep.

The office phone rang for the first time in a long while. Ko Gyeongmin picked up the receiver instead of Na Geumdong, who was still goofing around.

“Hello. This is Big Win Entertainment.”

The two chatted about what happened at Monet. The manager tapped his pen on the desk to get their attention. Stop goofing around and look over here.

“Yes, Ha Muyoung’s agency. Yes. BORNTORE? Hello. About the shooting date adjustment…….”

He trailed off and signaled to Muyoung.

When would it be convenient? Muyoung raised both hands above his head and made a circle. With exams and auditions over, what could go wrong?

“Anytime!”

A few days later.

“Ha-Muyoung!”

“Junho-ssi!”

“Come in. Was there a lot of traffic on your way here?”

“Nope. It’s fine. Hello!”

A studio near BORNTORE. Muyoung entered the shooting location with his manager. They were people he had already seen once because of Enbin’s photoshoot.

“Wow. You look even more handsome, Muyoung!”

“Long time no see!”

“I heard you’re working with Director Jin Gyeongmun now? And you have an agency too. You’re a total star! A star!”

Junho’s cousin raised his thumb and laughed. His face was haggard from his busy work, but he looked much happier and more energetic than before.

Thanks to Enbin and Muyoung, they literally hit the jackpot.

“Thank you. I heard the CEO was amazing too.”

“Hehehe. We were number one for three weeks in a row.”

“Congratulations. Now you can sit on a pile of money.”

“Of course! Muyoung, you’ll become a universal superstar too.”

Maybe because there were no outsiders like Enbin today, he didn’t hide his goofy side. He leaned toward Muyoung and whispered,

“I’m really grateful, so I made sure the pay was generous. You know? I’m saying this so you’ll appreciate it.”

Wink. Junho shuddered as he watched his brother blink his eyes.

Fitting model pay is usually hourly. Around 20,000 won per hour, and for a full-day shoot, it’s about 200,000 to 300,000 won.

“Of course. Thank you.”

“No, I’m the one who’s grateful. Make sure to tell Enbin too. You’ve saved several lives.”

But what was offered to Muyoung and Bora was not hourly but per piece. Ten thousand won per photo, one ‘shot’ at a time.

Considering it’s not going on a portal but is for SNS shooting, it’s almost like handing out pocket money.

“How many photos will be selected?”

“Five basic shots plus additional ones based on the work. Probably around ten. Oh! You made an account, right? Can you upload still cuts?”

He was referring to behind-the-scenes videos or photos taken to promote the work. Muyoung looked at Gyeongmin and asked if it was okay.

“Sure. But it’s not official, right?”

“Yes. Just separately. A personal request.”

It was a schedule built on connections and gratitude, but a contract is a contract! The period during which posts appear on SNS was also an important factor, so it had to be clarified.

“Well, now it’s time to get ready. CEO, the photographer is looking for you. And Muyoung, come this way. I’ll show you today’s concept.”

“Okay, okay. What about Bora?”

“She’s already getting ready.”

Muyoung followed Junho inside.

‘That’s weird.’

Glitter was still floating in the air. I’m sure Junho sprinkled it once before. Didn’t Enbin’s work end?

Why is it still flying around? Muyoung shook his sleeves, thinking maybe it had gotten on his clothes.

Whoosh—

When the inner curtain was drawn aside, Bora was getting her makeup done. She raised her head, peeking only with her eyes. Her tightly closed lips barely managed to utter a greeting.

“Hi.”

“Hi! Hyung, this is my friend Bora.”

‘Oh. The one Muyoung mentioned that time!’

Ko Gyeongmin and Bora exchanged a brief glance. Muyoung just stood between them, smiling awkwardly. He put on the headband the stylist gave him and asked,

“Is Bora’s nose okay?”

“Of course. It’s fine.”

A confident reply. That’s Bora as usual. With her makeup done so beautifully, she looks like a natural celebrity! Junho stood right next to her, fanning her.

“Lim Junho. Do me too.”

“Yeah. Go away.”

Since that day, the two seemed to have gotten a little closer. Just a little. To the point where Junho doesn’t ignore her when he talks. Muyoung flipped through his portfolio while getting his makeup done.

“What’s today’s concept?”

“The keywords are friends, fun, and energy. There are more detailed photos in the back, but use them only as a reference and do whatever feels comfortable.”

“This is actually my first photoshoot.”

“It’s not like it’s a secret. I know too, you know?”

“I’ll rely on Bora!”

“What do you mean rely. We’re doing this separately.”

With three acquaintances together, they chatted so much they lost track of time. Amidst the stylist’s nagging to stop moving around, they finished getting ready.

“Are you ready?”

“Yes!”

“Let’s see…… Oh. The colors look great. Let’s adjust the poses a bit.”

Muyoung and Bora stood against a white background and looked at the camera. Both being actors, their gaze was excellent. With their masks on, the visuals were even more stunning.

“It’s good. But Muyoung is a bit stiff, aren’t you?”

“My posture?”

“Try to relax.”

“Li, like this?”

Floppy, floppy. At the photographer’s request, Muyoung lowered his shoulders.

“……Are you an idiot?”

Bora muttered in disgust. Soon, she leaned toward Muyoung, grabbed his shoulder, and actively adjusted his pose. Junho, who was watching with the staff, clapped in admiration.

“Bora, you’re awesome—!”

“Let’s keep that feeling going!”

“Shoot’s up!”

Click—! Click!

The more they did it, the smoother their coordination became. The photographer’s flash went off like crazy. The smiles of the two brightened the room as much as the lights.

“Very good!”

“You’ve got talent, Muyoung! Move your left leg a little to the side!”

“As expected, it’s all about the physique. Good, good!”

“How are we going to choose ten shots from this—?”

“CEO, why don’t we just empty your bank account today?”

The atmosphere on set was warm and pleasant. The two models’ energy rose as well, and just as the excitement reached its peak,

Whoosh—!

“Huh?”

“What?”

The lights suddenly went out. The intense heat seemed to disappear in an instant. The photographer also put down his camera and looked around.

“Oh, Yeon Chae-ssi!”

“I’m so, so sorry! I’m so sorry!”

A woman standing by the wall jumped in surprise and turned around. She must have accidentally pressed the light switch. She quickly put on her thick glasses and kept bowing her head.

“Tsk. Be careful. We were on a roll.”

“I’m really sorry…….”

Is she a new employee? I didn’t see her last time.

Muyoung adjusted his clothes and smiled. It wasn’t intentional, and it could happen. He casually raised his hand and drew attention to himself.

“Can I go to the bathroom for a moment? I was in a hurry, so this is perfect.”

“Oh, sure. Then let’s take a short break.”

“I’ll check the work. Bora, do you want to see first?”

“Check the next outfit for me!”

At Muyoung’s request, the shoot paused temporarily, and Yeon Chae, the woman, also escaped the scolding gaze and ran around the set.

About five minutes passed like that.

“What about Bora?”

“She’s changing clothes. Wait a moment.”

“Junho-ssi!”

“Yes! I’m coming!”

In the midst of the chaos, Muyoung fidgeted with his feet in a corner. A drink suddenly appeared in front of him.

“Uh, um.”

“Wow! A drink! Thank you.”

“I’m sorry about earlier.”

Yeon Chae’s hands were trembling. Was it because of her introverted personality, or because of what she had done wrong? I’m not sure.

“It’s okay. But I’ve never seen you before. You’re not a BORNTORE employee, are you?”

“I’m the photographer’s assistant for the day.”

So I’ll only see her once today? Muyoung drank the beverage carefully, making sure not to smudge his lips. By the way, this flower powder! I don’t know when it stuck, but it’s all over the bottle.

“The assistant from last time was shooting with you. Why were you in the back?”

“When I’m nervous, my hands shake a lot, so I don’t think I can hold the camera today. Hehe…….”

She looked down at her hands and muttered in a voice full of regret.

“It’s stupid, isn’t it? For someone who dreams of being a photographer.”

“Everyone has their circumstances. So, are you a student now?”

“Yes. I’m on a leave of absence and working for a magazine called Today University.”

“……Oh?”

Muyoung tilted his head and looked at Yeon Chae. Today University? Maybe…….

“By the way, can I see your hand for a moment?”

“Your, hand? Why?”

Muyoung just smiled, as if to say, just because. Yeon Chae had no choice but to extend her right hand.

“Wow.”

It was here.

Her palm! The flower powder that had been scattered around the set and stuck to the drink bottle had originated from here.

“My hands shake too much…… I need to fix this, but it’s not easy. Hehe.”

Yeon Chae awkwardly laughed and pulled her hand back. Muyoung replied firmly.

“I don’t know. In my eyes, you’re a golden hand.”

“A, golden hand?”

“Yes. I think you’ll be good at whatever you shoot.”

“What makes you say that…….”

“If you need to see something to know, then let’s see it!”

Muyoung stood up and called the CEO.

“CEO! About the still cuts. Would it be okay to ask this person to do them?”