If a photo is worth a thousand words, what about the person who took that photo? In a day and age where, thanks to Instagram, everyone thinks they’re a professional photographer, it’s important to remember the people who actually do this for a living.
People like Erica Lauren -– the do-it-yourself punk rocker who has shot for countless bands like Bad Religion, AFI, Slipknot and more.
Today, in a time where all we have are photos to remember some of our favorite shows by (since no one can attend any at the moment), we’d like to take a second and shine a light on the hard working people who took them.
So to learn a little more about Erica Lauren plus some advice on live photography, be sure to check out our newest installment of our Photographer Spotlight series below. Afterward, make sure to follow Erica on Instagram here.
(photo by: Danielle Parsons)
Who or what got you into concert photography?
Before I started shooting shows, I was taking pictures every day on disposable cameras in high school. Naturally from there, I started bringing cameras with me to all the shows I went to. It was basically a happy accident.
What was the first show you ever shot?
The first show with a very cheap film camera was The Virus at The Glasshouse. My first DSLR at a bigger show was Billy Talent with Thursday.
What was your first touring experience like and who did you shoot for?
My first touring experience was with AJJ and Chris Farren maybe 4 years ago. I [hopped] in the van right from Fest in Gainesville. They are the best people and always make me feel at home.
What’s your preferred camera setup?
Usually my Canon 6d 24-70mm 2.8.
For young photographers who are still learning, what’s your time management like or the schedule you give yourself day-to-day while shooting?
For shows, I usually edit as soon as I get home regardless of turn around time. If touring, it depends on what you agreed to with the band but again, I edit live images as soon as possible. I just drink a lot of coffee and sleep once my work is finished.
Any other tips for future concert photographers?
Find your own style of shooting and editing and keep doing it. Trends will come and go, but ultimately, your eye and aesthetic are your voice in photography.
Personally, who are some of your favorite concert photographers?
Growing up I admired Edward Colver, Roberta Bayley, Jim Marshall and BJ Papas. Now I’m mostly inspired by my friends like Courtney Coles, Amanda Fotes, Angela Owens, Farrah Skeiky, Carly Hoskins, Kat Nijmeddin – the list goes on…
Lastly, who’s your dream artist to shoot?
The dream is to tour as Rancid’s photographer. I’ve shot them a few times live but would love to capture candidate and portraits of them. They’ve been one of my favorite bands since I was 13/14.
