My Journey into Live Music Photography: From Fan to Photographer!

My journey into live music photography began, as many things do, with passion. Growing up, I was constantly drawn to live music, captivated by the energy of the crowd, the unpredictable nature of each performance, and the powerful connection between musicians and their fans. I didn’t know it at the time, but this fascination would eventually lead me to where I am today capturing those very moments through my lens.

The Start: From Entertainment Management to Photographer:

Initially, my love for music led me to Collarts, where I pursued a Bachelor's in Entertainment Management. I wanted to understand the inner workings of the industry—the business side of live music. I thought my future would be behind the scenes, managing artists or working events. But while I enjoyed learning about the industry, something didn’t quite click. I found myself wanting to be closer to the action, to immerse myself in the heart of live music rather than just manage it.

That’s when everything changed. Shortly after I graduated, I found out that Collarts was launching a Bachelor's in Photography. It felt like a lightbulb moment—I could combine my love for live music with a creative outlet like photography. Without hesitation, I applied and was accepted. Suddenly, the pieces began falling into place.

My First Gig: The Gasometer Hotel and Bentham’s Head:

Armed with my camera, I set out to build my skills, and my first real gig as a photographer was at the Gasometer Hotel, shooting Bentham's Head. This was the first time I had the chance to use everything I’d learned in a live setting. It was exhilarating and nerve-wracking at the same time. I remember walking into the venue, unsure of how the night would unfold but eager to make the most of the opportunity.

The gig was an small heavy metal gig, and the atmosphere was perfect for testing my skills. I focused on capturing not only the performers but also the raw emotions from the audience. Every moment seemed like a potential shot, and while my technique was far from polished, I quickly realized that live music photography is about more than just pointing a camera and clicking. It's about timing, anticipation, and most importantly, feeling the music as much as photographing it. Evolution: Developing My Style

As I continued to shoot more gigs, I started to evolve as a photographer. Early on, I was still experimenting with angles, lighting, and timing. I wasn’t yet fully confident in my own style, so I spent a lot of time watching other photographers and learning from their movements. I observed how they positioned themselves to get the best angles, how they interacted with the performers, and how they waited for just the right moment.

Through trial and error, I found my rhythm. Over time, I transitioned from just snapping shots to telling a story through each image. One particular moment that marked a shift in my journey was during an Ecos of Pink Floyd tribute show at the Corner Hotel. The lighting hit just right, and I captured one of my best photos, now affectionately called "Mr. Hand." That shot became a defining piece in my portfolio. I have also entered the photo “Mr Hand,” into a photo competition.

Where I Am Today:

Today, live music photography is more than just a creative outlet—it’s a way for me to connect with the music I love and share it with others. From those first shaky shots at the Gasometer Hotel to developing my own unique style, the journey has been nothing short of incredible. Live music photography is now my business and it is called – Kaz-Marie Photography and I cannot still believe it!

Looking forward, I’m excited for the next gig, the next band, and the next opportunity to capture that perfect moment when music and emotion collide.