January 18, 2024 by Olivia Tuck (‘24)
Pose, Focus, Click, Shutter, Check, Repeat. A rhythm in my head akin to those I heard from the stage, as the band infused Caffé Lena with smooth jazz and easy vibes as listeners ate a Hattie’s-catered dinner. I had the privilege of taking pictures of Riff for Rights in November and loved every minute of it! It was also my first-time taking concert photography, making the music twice as memorable.
As the first band began their set, I tried to focus more on background shots. What listeners were doing, how the music was affecting them (it was a sea of smiles), and how the band itself merged into a new environment. It’s not just about how your subjects are placed within the picture, but how the world around them is placed too. I then ventured closer to the stage. This was daunting. I didn’t want to block people’s views but my lens was maxed OUT… I had to snag some focal shots of the two main performers and side shots of the bass and drum players. Being able to take close-ups made my appreciation for the band skyrocket as I could watch them, their eyes closed, basking in the spotlight. As the saxophonist ended her solo, the bassist kept in time with her, never missing a beat. Each person is a moving component, and their instruments only boosted the fluidity of the shots as I observed the bandmates masterfully play their instruments, hands moving at a practiced, confident pace.
Then, of course, you had pictures of the merch stand, the speakers, and my classmates- volunteers that made the show run. Without the team of organizers, catering, greeters, and others, the entire Riff for Rights production would never have happened. While lighting can prove to be a challenge (and you don’t want to absolutely blind people with flash) making use of brighter spaces is your best friend. Unfortunately, I got a tad too caught up in the moment and ended up with some photos that I couldn’t even understand who I was trying to focus in on, or what color their shirts were. But that’s what practice is for!!
If you’re new to photography, or taking pictures of concerts like me, I recommend that you go into it with your best self. I know… that’s extremely cheesy, but it’s also extremely true. You’ll never excel at a new hobby or skill if you don’t force yourself out there. I leapt at the chance to take pictures for Amnesty International Club simply because I’d never taken concert photos with my camera before (and some of them actually turned out good!) and it was a good cause to lend myself to. I’m proud to say I can now somewhat take pictures of local bands and if you need a band photographer who knows both digital and film… you know who to call.
