If you've ever picked up a magazine or a newspaper filled with photos from celebrity galas or film premieres, chances are you've noticed the photo credit "Patrick McMullan." Patrick McMullan Company is actually comprised of a roster of photographers, including McMullan himself, who cover an average of 50 events per week. Clint Spaulding is one of PMC's busiest photographers.

Growing up in a small town near Ann Arbor, Michigan, Spaulding dreamed of becoming an actor until he discovered photography at age thirteen. He received his first camera as a Christmas gift and went on to shoot for his high school newspaper, work at local photo labs, and eventually pursue a degree in journalism at Michigan State University. During a visit to New York City, an opportunity came up to photograph a few shows during Fashion Week of Spring 2003. Some months later, a McMullan photo book inspired Spaulding to seek out and interview for PMC, which lead to a summer job as a receptionist, and eventually a full-time gig as a photographer. His colleagues, says Spaulding, still make fun of him for being the worst receptionist they've ever had.

Emon Hassan, Narratively's multimedia editor, is a New York-based filmmaker and photographer. He is also a contributor to The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Atlantic. You can follow him on Twitter, Facebook & Google+.