Earlier, you helped us select our ten favorite concert photographers in St. Louis. We got well over 100 nominations, after which our panel of judges narrowed the field to just ten. In the coming weeks, we'll be introducing you to each of the finalists and having them share some of their favorite concert photos while answering a few questions about their process and passion.
See also: The Ten Best Music Photographers in St. Louis: 2014 Nominees
How and when did you get involved with music photography?
I was going to school for graphic design and working with a friend who was a photography major. We had the idea to go into business together to work in the music industry. Eventually my friend decided they wanted to work in a different field. I already had an interest in photography and decided to learn the craft and pursue it on my own.
What are some highlights of your professional photography experience?
I could go on about the major artists I have been lucky enough to shoot, but really the biggest highlight of my career is the approval I received from the amazingly talented Terry Lewis. Back before I got into shooting shows, I would always look up at the Legacy posters at Pop's and think to myself how awesome of a job that would be. At the time, I had no idea that Terry was the one who had shot those. Eventually I met him, and knowing who he was, I was honestly nervous to approach him.
I finally had the opportunity to start shooting alongside Terry at Pop's and got to know him pretty well. One day Terry came into my work with his wife, and he introduced me to her as "one of the best photographers in St. Louis." I was beyond flattered. Eventually I became the house photographer at Pop's, and one day it hit me: The thing I used to look up to and idolize had become what I was doing. That in itself is one of the most gratifying and rewarding highlights of my career.
Where can people find your work (exhibits, album covers, publications, etc.)?
Most of my work can be found on the Pop's website and Facebook page, as well as my website. Bands like Fivefold, Killer Me Killer You, Brookroyal and Make Me Break Me have some of my work on their websites and inside of a few of their albums. The rest of my notable work falls outside of the concert-photography realm.
What is your favorite part of doing music photography?
The best part of doing music photography is the energy of a show. No matter the venue or the style of music, the energy of shooting in that environment is always fun. The feeling in the room when the house lights go down and everyone starts to cheer always gives me chills. It's a very exciting atmosphere to work in.
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