There are few things I enjoy more than working with a musician, songwriter or creative type looking to get new photography. There is a freedom in the long exploration of a portrait and solo artists are a amazing collaborators. Displayed here are a series of shoots I’ve done over the last few years. These photos are some of my favourites, cropped in the traditional square album format. While I am happy to travel anywhere to take band photography, most of my creative band photos were taken here in Toronto.
Musician Portrait - The Process - Before the Shoot
I’m always so giddy to hear from a musician looking for a new portrait. If you are a musician looking for a new portrait, this is what you can expect from me.
The first thing I try to do is set-up a virtual or phone chat. The idea with this chat is to get to know the artist, find out what they are looking for, and get a sense of their aesthetic or style. Typically I’ll ask for some photos that have inspired, always ask for some sample music, and brainstorm some ideas.
The biggest decision to make with your photographer is location. I have a number of places I know and like to work, but always open to new ideas and locations. Weather plays a major part, access to instruments and studios is a factor, as is mood and lighting.
Location and timing of the day plays a major role. Are you looking for something more urban, natural, bright, stark, quirky? All these locations can be found in the GTA, and I’m happy to jump around as much is necessary.
I don’t typically get involved in clothing or style, but I encourage the artist to bring multiple outfits to the shoot. I’ll give an opinion, but it’s ultimately your choice.
Musician Portrait - The Shoot Itself
Once the location and timing has been determined, the shoot itself is a open ended exploration of self, light and expression. I’m kind of kidding, but it’s true.
As a photographer, I believe my job is to strive towards capturing the artist in the way they want to be portrayed, but also expand their range and try a whole host of moods and energies.
The light and background play a major role, like an extra character on set, and pivoting to utilize what is available is all the fun.
A lot of the portrait is spent looking for the mood and energy described by the artist, but I also look to get as much a variety as possible. There is a lot of, “Why don’t we try this?” or “This might be something.. ” and we try it and abandon it right away, or find there is something there and work it. It’s fun. We try a whole bunch of things.
We are a Band Photographer too!
We photograph bands as well! The process is very much the same as above, but with bands you have to balance the schedule of not just two, but lots of people! I have a lot of great sample photography of band photography in my web gallery.
Want to book a shoot or still have some more questions for us? Take a look at our Arts and Band Photography page and reach out for a free consultation.
