I can’t tell you exactly when I fell in love with music, at some point in my early childhood music grabbed me, became part of who I am, and hasn’t let go. I grew up listening to what we now consider “the classics” on 8 track, tapes, and vinyl. When my parents were away, I would grab a badminton racket, put on a Tom Petty or a Bon Jovi album (on the Pioneer rack system), and perform in front of thousands of people (at least that’s what I imagined in my head).
Music has been vital throughout my life. To me, it’s a transport vessel, my safe place, my home. My faith and devotion to music covers many genres, from Rush to Beethoven, each touching a different part of me, transporting me to a different place, allowing me to find a song for every mood and situation. Music, said quite simply, speaks to my soul and understands me when no one else does. It is my religion, my passion, my muse.
I’ve always been an avid concert-goer and for years I’ve watched the hustle of photographers in the photo pits. While I wondered what it would be like, for a long time, I was content to sit back from the spectator seats and just take in the music. Then I bought a decent point and shoot camera and became a self-proclaimed concert photographer (more like a lawn seat photographer). That’s when I fell in love with photography. I bought better equipment and started watching videos and took a few local classes on editing and composition. I found that concerts were what I truly wanted to shoot.
All of it began to click about 2 years ago when my wife and I were attending a Rock Festival in Jacksonville, Florida. I told her that I wanted to “be in there with those guys”. At that moment, a fire was lit and I began to shoot local music events and venues. I began reaching out to photographers on Instagram whose work I respected, and they provided great advice and guidance. One year later, thanks to my wife, I was approved to shoot my first big music festival, Earthday Birthday in Orlando, Florida. I was in the pit with some of the amazing photographers that I follow and I haven’t looked back.
Now I get to do what I love and be a part of this amazing team of artists as a contributor for These Subtle Sounds. Say what?!?!? Is this a dream??? You mean, I get to do what I love and share my musical journey, through photos and reviews, with the world? (well, at least that is the plan!) It’s truly humbling…and an absolute dream come true…
Chris is new to our team and will be providing coverage in Florida! We are happy to have him on board, extending our reach into the Sunshine State! Take a look at his debut post for These Subtle Sounds, here and follow him on Instagram! Here is a look at some of Chris’ work below:
