Earlier, we introduced you to our ten favorite concert photographers in St. Louis. We got well over fifty nominations, and our judges narrowed the field to these ten folks. Over the coming week-plus, we'll be introducing you to each of the finalists in turn by having them share with you five of their favorite concert photos and answering a few questions about their process and passion. Up next is Todd Owyoung (who occasionally plies his wares for RFT Music), whose work can be viewed (and purchased) from his web site, www.ishootshows.com.
See also: -The Ten Best Music Photographers in St. Louis: Meet the Finalists -Finalist Profile: Jon Gitchoff -Finalist Profile: Jarred Gastreich -Finalist Profile: Bryan Sutter -Finalist profile: Corey Woodruff -Finalist profile: Nate Burrell -Finalist Profile: Jason Stoff -Finalist Profile: Ben Fournier
RFT Music: If you had to guess at the ballpark number, how many concerts would you say you've photographed?
Todd Owyoung: Over the last seven years, I've probably shot somewhere near a thousand shows and festivals, from massive events like Lollapalooza to shows in smoky basement dives.
What makes a great concert photo?
For me, a great live music photo is one that captures the heart of the band, one that makes you feel as though you were at the show.
The best concert images are ones that can make you hear the music and the roar of the crowd, long after the lights have gone down and your ears have stopped ringing.
What's the best thing about live music?
As Bob Marley said, "One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain."
There's an visceral, electrifying quality to a rock show that's singular.
I love the sense of anticipation at a concert just as the lights go down, before a band takes the stage. In that moment, it feels like anything can happen. The best recording can't replace the excitement of a crowd, the slam of bass in one's chest, or the euphoria of hearing a song you've been waiting for all set.
