The encounter began with high praise. “MR. John paid you a great compliment for your work with them.” This acknowledgment paved the way for an unexpected invitation. Just five days later, the call came again, “We’re shooting a video in Central Park. Come meet us.” It was a bright, sunny day, the perfect backdrop for an outdoor shoot. Following the Central Park scenes, Yoko Ono extended a further invitation, “Come and get some coffee.” At Café La Fortuna, the conversation took a turn towards the intimate. Yoko proposed, “John feels comfortable with you, come with us to the studio.”
A limousine transported them downtown to the Sperone Westwater Gallery on Greene Street, transformed into a studio resembling John And Yoko’s bedroom at the Dakota. In this recreated intimate space, beautiful Japanese kimonos lay waiting. The concept was deeply personal: John and Yoko were to enter this bedroom setting, disrobe, and simulate making love. As the photographer captured these moments, a powerful emotion arose: “My mind is completely blown away by what I’m seeing — these tender moments.” The authenticity of their connection was undeniable. “I remember thinking, ‘I don’t know if I can believe this.’ You could see their love. It was a very real thing.”
The experience extended beyond the studio. A few days later, a visit to the Dakota to review the film with John and Yoko unfolded. John Lennon’s enthusiastic reaction was immediate, waving photos and exclaiming, “Yoko, these are great!” Upon seeing the photographer, his praise continued, “Oh, there you are! These are wonderful. You really captured Yoko’s beauty.” This sincere appreciation left a lasting impression.
Reflecting on their dynamic, it was clear “John was his own man.” Yet, a deep respect and deference to Yoko was also evident. “Of course, he deferred to Yoko. He would humor her.” Their collaboration was apparent in their interactions. Even in moments of playful disagreement, affection shone through. “If she would say something he felt was silly, he would say, ‘Yes, Mother.'” Ultimately, their bond was unmistakable: “It was clear they were close collaborators.”
