​The first time I picked up a camera at a concert was during a Jimmy Barnes gig at the entertainment centre in Melbourne in the mid-1980s. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I brought my camera along, but something inside me told me this would be an experience worth capturing. At the time, I was already intrigued by photography, but live music photography was a completely new realm for me.

The atmosphere of that gig was electric—there’s something about a Jimmy Barnes show that just grabs you and pulls you in. The lights were bright and intense, casting bold shadows across the stage, while the sound was loud and raw, with the energy of the crowd feeding into every guitar riff and vocal scream. It was the kind of atmosphere where you feel the music in your bones, and every note seems to vibrate through the air.

I still vividly remember one special moment during that gig when one of his guitarists looked straight down the lens of my camera. It was as if the entire room narrowed into that single shot. There was a connection between the performer and my camera, something rare and fleeting that I was able to capture. It ended up being a beautiful photo—one that still stands out to me all these years later as the moment where my passion for live music photography really took off.

The experience of shooting that first gig was thrilling. I realized that capturing live performances wasn’t just about freezing a moment in time—it was about translating the energy, emotion, and atmosphere into a visual story. It felt like being part of the music itself, contributing in a way that wasn’t just about watching but about immortalizing the performance through my lens.

That Jimmy Barnes gig sparked a journey for me. From that moment, I knew I wanted to keep doing this, to keep finding those perfect moments that tell the story of a gig. That was the start of everything, and it’s what eventually brought me to where I am today, pursuing live music photography as both a passion and a profession.

 ​Photographing drummers like Bryce from Sisters Doll presents a unique challenge. Drummers, often tucked away at the back of the stage, bring an intense energy that’s crucial to capture but can be tricky to photograph. Here are a few tips to ensure your shots reflect the rhythm and motion of their performance:

1. Anticipate Movement:

Drummers are always in motion, and the key to great shots is anticipating that movement. Watch the drummer's patterns during the performance—observe their arms, sticks, and footwork. With Bryce, for example, you can expect powerful strikes and dynamic body language, so time your shots just before or after a hit to freeze the motion at its peak.

2. Use a Fast Shutter Speed:

To freeze the fast movements of a drummer, use a shutter speed of at least 1/250 second or faster. A high shutter speed will reduce motion blur, capturing every rapid drumstick strike and cymbal crash. Depending on the lighting, you may need to adjust your ISO to maintain exposure.

3. Capture the Emotion:

Drummers like Bryce are not just about beats—they express emotion through their performance. Focus on their facial expressions and the way they interact with the drums. These moments are gold in telling the story of their passion and connection to the music.

4. Embrace Motion Blur:

While freezing motion is key, intentional motion blur can also add a sense of speed and intensity to your shots. If you slow down your shutter speed slightly (around 1/60 or 1/100 second), you can blur the drumsticks while keeping the drummer sharp, adding an artistic effect that highlights the action. 5. Find Unique Angles

Drummers are often behind their kits, obscured by cymbals or other equipment. Move around the stage to find interesting angles. Capture Bryce from the side or slightly below to add depth to your shot. If the venue allows, shooting from the back of the stage can also create a dynamic perspective that includes the audience and the rest of the band.

6. Leverage Lighting:

Concert lighting can be your best friend or worst enemy. Pay attention to how the lights hit the drummer. In some moments, Bryce might be illuminated perfectly, allowing you to capture the spotlight on him. Try to avoid shooting in harsh backlighting unless you’re going for silhouettes. Use the stage lights to your advantage to highlight both the movement and the mood.

7. Burst Mode for Action Shots

Burst mode allows you to take a rapid sequence of shots, increasing your chances of capturing the perfect moment. With Bryce’s fast-paced drumming style, you’ll need this feature to catch the subtle differences in each strike and expression.

8. Focus on Details:

While the entire kit and drummer in motion make for powerful images, don't forget to zoom in on the details. Close-ups of Bryce's hands gripping the sticks or his footwork on the kick pedal add depth and texture to your photo set, telling a more complete story of his performance.

Photographing drummers requires patience, timing, and creativity. With these tips, you can overcome the challenges of stage placement and motion to create impactful images that capture the heart-pounding energy of drummers like Bryce.

​Sisters Doll is a band that truly knows how to captivate an audience, delivering raw energy and a commanding stage presence. When I photographed them at Northcote Social Club, it was clear that this gig was an important moment for the band as they built momentum towards their upcoming album launch at Max Watts on January 25th. At the time of this performance, the lineup consisted of Brennan (lead vocals/guitar), Bryce (drums), and Austin (lead guitar). Sage, who would later join as the band’s bassist, was yet to be part of the group.

Photographing the Show: Glam Rock in Motion:

The Northcote Social Club, an intimate venue with a devoted crowd, set the perfect stage for Sisters Doll’s high-energy performance. As a photographer, my aim was to capture both the band’s musical prowess and their connection with the audience. From the first chord to the final encore, Brennan, Bryce, and Austin were in full control of the stage, showcasing their distinctive glam rock sound while engaging with fans who sang along to every song.

One of the standout moments I captured that night was during Brennan’s explosive guitar riffs. He moved across the stage with precision and flair, bathed in dramatic lighting that enhanced his larger-than-life persona. Bryce was a force behind the drum kit, pounding out rhythms with intensity, while Austin’s guitar solos sent waves of energy through the crowd. I made sure to capture the trio in sync, each of them contributing to the band’s electrifying presence.

Sisters Doll’s Journey: From Humble Beginnings to Big Stages:

Sisters Doll’s journey began in Western Australia, with Brennan, Bryce, and Austin united by their love for glam rock legends like KISS and Mötley Crüe. The brothers worked tirelessly, starting in small venues and gradually building their reputation within the Australian music scene. Their big break came in 2016 when they appeared on Australia’s Got Talent, where they gained national recognition for their theatrical performances and bold rock sound.

During a chat with the band after their Northcote gig, Brennan reflected on how far they’ve come. “We’ve always been passionate about the music we play, and that’s what keeps us going,” he said. “This journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth every moment.” The Northcote show was part of their lead-up to their biggest show yet, the album launch at Max Watts, a significant milestone in their career.

A Look Ahead:

With their new album set to launch in January, Sisters Doll is poised for even bigger things. Their fans, affectionately known as the Doll Army, have stood by them through every step, and the band remains committed to delivering powerful performances that keep audiences coming back for more. Sage’s addition to the band later on further strengthened their lineup, and the band continues to evolve.

Capturing Sisters Doll at Northcote Social Club was a glimpse into the heart of a band on the rise. Their journey from small-town gigs to major stages is a testament to their perseverance, and I’m excited to see what’s next for them as they continue to make waves in the rock scene.

 As a live music photographer, I have had the pleasure of shooting at various venues, each offering unique experiences that impact how you capture the moment. Two of my favourite venues to work at are the Corner Hotel in Richmond and Stay Gold in Brunswick. While both are excellent in their own ways, they present different challenges and advantages that affect the quality of the photos and overall experience.

Corner Hotel Pros:
The Corner Hotel is one of Melbourne's iconic live music venues, and it offers several advantages for photographers. One of the standout features is the accessibility of backstage areas, where photographers can store their gear, freeing you from having to lug heavy equipment around the crowd. This is particularly helpful for longer gigs where you need easy access to lenses, batteries, and other essentials. Another pro is that there's enough room to move around the crowd while shooting, giving you the flexibility to find the best angles and capture unique perspectives. This ability to move around without feeling cramped adds to the dynamic energy you can bring to your shots.

The presence of a dedicated photography pit is a huge benefit for professionals. The barrier not only keeps the crowd at bay but also ensures you have a clear view of the stage without having to worry about getting jostled by eager fans. It also gives you space to experiment with different shots, from wide crowd images to close-ups of the musicians.

Additionally, the atmosphere at the Corner Hotel is often electric. When the band is great, the crowd’s energy matches it, and this synergy translates into more compelling photos. You can almost feel the music through the lens, and it adds an intangible but essential quality to the images you capture.

Cons:
The biggest challenge with the Corner Hotel, as a photographer, is the lighting. The venue tends to favour red, orange, and purple lights, which can be tricky to work with. These colours are difficult to shoot because they often wash out details and create a flat look in the images, especially if the lighting setup is too harsh or too concentrated on one area. Bright white lights, when used sporadically, can also blow out your shots, leaving little room for postproduction corrections. These lighting choices can force you to shoot in manual mode, constantly adjusting your settings to find the right balance. If you're not prepared for it, this can lead to frustratingly inconsistent shots.

Stay Gold Pros:
Stay Gold is another fantastic venue that I have a soft spot for. One of the biggest pros is the stage setup. The stage is a great size—not too big, not too small—allowing for intimate but energetic performances. As a photographer, the stage layout gives you a variety of angles to work with, from tight close-ups to wider, crowd-inclusive shots. This versatility is crucial for creating a diverse portfolio of images from a single gig.

Another advantage at Stay Gold is the lighting. Unlike the Corner Hotel, Stay Gold offers lighting that is much more forgiving for photographers. The lights are generally well-balanced, and you don’t have to worry as much about harsh reds or purples dominating your shots. This allows for more natural skin tones and better contrast in the images, which reduces the amount of post-editing needed.

The atmosphere at Stay Gold is always vibrant, and it's a place where both bands and fans seem to feed off each other's energy. This, combined with the venue's intimate setting, makes it easier to capture those raw, emotional moments that make for great live music photography.

Another plus is security. They know me well here, and this familiarity adds a layer of comfort and safety while working. It makes navigating through the crowd and accessing different parts of the venue easier, without worrying about equipment or personal space.

Cons:
Honestly, I haven’t found any major cons at Stay Gold. It’s a venue that ticks all the boxes for me as a live music photographer.

Conclusion
In summary, both the Corner Hotel and Stay Gold have their strengths and challenges. The Corner Hotel’s spaciousness and professional setup make it ideal for larger gigs, but the lighting can pose a challenge. On the other hand, Stay Gold offers better lighting and a more intimate atmosphere, making it an easier, more enjoyable venue to shoot at. While the lighting at the Corner Hotel requires more technical finesse, both venues deliver in terms of atmosphere and crowd engagement, which are vital for capturing the essence of live music.

Shooting a live gig is an exhilarating and fast-paced experience that requires both creativity and technical expertise. As a live music photographer, I’ve captured performances in venues ranging from the intimate space of The Gasometer to larger spots like The Corner Hotel. Each show brings its own set of challenges, from lighting to movement, but that’s what makes it so thrilling. Here’s a step-by-step look at what it’s like to shoot a live show, from preparation to post-production.

Pre-Show: Arriving at the Venue I always arrive at the venue at least an hour before the doors open. This time is crucial because it gives me a chance to scout the stage setup and lighting arrangements, which helps me anticipate how I’ll shoot the performance. At venues like The Gasometer, where space is limited, positioning is key. For larger venues like the Corner Hotel, I have the freedom to move around more, which allows me to capture a wider variety of angles.

While waiting for the doors to open, I usually run through my gear checklist. I shoot with a Nikon Z6ii and a Nikkor 24-70mm lens, which is perfect for lowlight conditions and offers great versatility when switching between wide shots and close-ups. I always carry extra batteries, memory cards, and lens wipesespecially at smaller, sweatier venues where moisture can affect the lens.

Setting Up: Shooting in Aperture Priority Mode Once inside, I set my camera to Aperture Priority mode, which allows me to control the depth of field while the camera automatically adjusts the shutter speed. This is especially useful in live music photography, where lighting can change in an instant, and I need to stay focused on capturing the right moments rather than constantly adjusting my settings.

I typically shoot with a wide aperture (around f/2.8 to f/4) to create a shallow depth of field, which helps isolate the performers from the background. For live gigs, the lighting can be unpredictable, so I also crank the ISO up to between 3200 and 6400. While this higher ISO setting introduces some noise, it’s essential for maintaining a fast enough shutter speed to freeze the action in lowlight conditions. I rely on the Z6ii’s excellent low-light performance to keep the images clean even at higher ISOs. Capturing Key Moments During the Performance

As the show begins, the energy of the night takes over. My goal is to capture the emotion and intensity of the performance—from the singer’s expressive vocals to the drummer’s focused intensity. In smaller venues like The Gasometer, I often find myself working with limited space, so I have to be mindful of the crowd while still getting close enough to capture the action. At larger venues like the Corner Hotel, I have more room to move around and can experiment with different angles, like wide shots of the entire band or close-ups of individual musicians.

Shooting in Aperture Priority means I can focus on framing and timing, but I still keep an eye on the camera’s shutter speed. If the stage lighting dims too much, I may manually increase the ISO even further to prevent motion blur. Concert lighting often includes intense reds, blues, and strobes, which can make capturing accurate skin tones and clear details difficult, so I constantly adjust my positioning and exposure to adapt to the changing conditions.

One of the biggest challenges is knowing when to anticipate the "big moments"—like a guitarist hitting a high note during a solo or a lead singer connecting with the crowd. These are the moments that define the night, and capturing them requires a mix of experience and instinct. During one of my shoots at the Ecos Pink Floyd tribute show at the Corner Hotel, I caught a perfectly timed shot when the lighting hit the singer’s hand just right, a moment I’ve since titled “Mr Hand.”

Post-Show: Editing in Lightroom Classic:

Once the show is over, the next stage of the process begins: post-production. I import all the photos into Lightroom Classic, where I begin the first round of culling. I rate each photo on a scale of 1 to 5 stars, which helps me quickly narrow down the best shots. Images rated 1 or 2 are usually blurry, poorly lit, or simply don’t capture the right moment, so they get deleted. The 3-star shots are decent but might need more editing to bring out their potential, while the 4- and 5-star photos are my top picks that just need fine-tuning. Editing Process

Once I’ve sorted the photos, I dive into the editing process. My main focus is on correcting exposure and white balance. Since I often shoot in high ISO ranges (3200-6400) to deal with low light, noise can be an issue, so I use Lightroom’s noise reduction tools to clean up the images while preserving as much detail as possible.

Stage lighting at live shows is unpredictable—one second the performers are bathed in deep red, and the next, they’re hit with a blinding white spotlight. I usually start by adjusting the white balance to make the skin tones look more natural, then tweak the shadows and highlights to bring out details in the darker parts of the image. I also adjust the contrast and saturation to enhance the mood of the performance, making sure the photos still reflect the raw energy of the night.

For certain shots, especially those where the lighting is dramatic or intense, I might convert the image to black and white. This technique strips away distracting colours and focuses the viewer’s attention on the emotion and composition of the shot. Black and white edits work especially well for closeups of musicians where the lighting highlights their expressions.

The Final Product:

After editing, I export the final images and deliver them to the band or client. Each photo tells part of the story of the night—capturing the atmosphere, the energy, and the emotional connection between the performers and their audience. Shooting live music is challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding when you see those fleeting moments preserved in a photograph.

Whether I’m shooting in a small, cozy venue like The Gasometer or a larger venue like The Corner Hotel, each gig presents its own set of challenges and opportunities. Shooting in Aperture Priority mode with a high ISO helps me adapt to the constantly changing lighting conditions, while post-production in Lightroom Classic allows me to bring out the best in each shot. In the end, it’s all about capturing the magic of live music—the passion, the intensity, and the moments that make every performance unique.

 ​Capturing the raw emotion of a live performance is at the heart of great music photography. It’s not just about freezing a moment in time but about immortalizing the feelings, the energy, and the passion that radiates from the stage. As a live music photographer, it’s important to tune into the energy of the musicians and the crowd, letting the rhythm of the music guide you to the perfect shot. I’ve found that the key to capturing emotion lies in observing subtle details, such as facial expressions, body language, and the dynamic interplay between band members.

Shooting Close-Ups of Facial Expressions

Facial expressions are often the most immediate window into a performer’s emotional state. Whether it’s the intensity of a guitarist lost in a solo, a vocalist belting out a powerful lyric, or a drummer locked into the groove, these moments tell a story of passion, vulnerability, or pure joy. To capture these expressions, I always try to position myself close to the stage or use a lens that allows for tight framing. My Nikon Z6ii with a 24-70mm lens offers versatility, letting me zoom in on a musician’s face without losing the energy of the environment.

I follow the performer’s movements, waiting for that split second when they connect deeply with the music. Sometimes, it’s in the furrow of their brow, the closing of their eyes, or the tension in their lips. These are the moments that resonate most with viewers because they reveal the true intensity of the performance.

Highlighting Body Language

While facial expressions are essential, body language can often tell an equally powerful story. Whether it’s the leap of a guitarist in mid-air, a drummer hunched over his kit, or the stance of a lead singer owning the stage, body language communicates confidence, vulnerability, and everything in between. Capturing these movements requires anticipating the performer’s next move, which comes from being in sync with the rhythm of the music.

When I shoot live music, I often rely on my gut instinct. If I feel that a particularly energetic part of the song is approaching, I’ll position myself in a spot where I can capture the full movement. My experience shooting different genres of music has taught me that every genre has its unique body languagewhether it’s the frenetic energy of a punk show or the slow sway of a jazz performance. Capturing the Energy Between Band Members

One of the most dynamic aspects of live performance is the interaction between band members. Musicians often communicate through eye contact, gestures, or shared smiles, and capturing these moments of connection can add depth to a photo. These interactions showcase the camaraderie and chemistry that fuel the performance. I’ve found that these moments often happen spontaneously, so it’s important to always stay alert.

For example, during the Ecos Pink Floyd show at the Corner Hotel, I captured a shot that became one of my portfolio favourites: "Mr Hand." The way the light hit the singer as they gestured towards the guitarist created a moment of magic. The shot wasn't planned, but it was the result of staying in tune with the energy of the performance and being ready to seize the moment.

Trusting My Instincts

In live music photography, there’s no formula for capturing emotion. It requires a deep connection with the music and the performers, as well as the ability to trust your instincts. I often let the music dictate where I position myself in the venue—sometimes that means staying close to the stage, while other times I’ll move around to find the best angle or lighting.

Ultimately, the art of capturing emotion is about being present in the moment. By following the music and trusting my gut, I’m able to capture shots that convey not just the visuals of the performance, but the soul of the experience.