The most challenging musician to photograph is the drummer. At most shows, the drummer is tucked in the back and buried behind cymbals. When you get a great shot of a drummer, it is truly a reward, and the drummers are appreciative as well! Having dated a drummer in college, I have a bit of a soft spot for these musicians. I try to get a drummer photograph at every show. When the stage allows for the drummer to be front and center, that makes me excited!

One of my favorite drummers to photograph is Matt Thomas of The Joy Formidable. In this band, the drummer is set up at the right side of the stage. This keeps him right up front with the action!

Wye Oak‘s Andy Stack is another favorite drummer of mine. Since Wye Oak is a two-piece, both musicians take the front of the stage. Andy also plays keyboards in addition to drums, making him even more amazing!

I spent some time compiling a set of my favorite drummer shots from throughout the 10 years that I have been photographing concerts. You can see the full set on my flickr here. Enjoy a few photos from the set. All photos copyright and courtesy of Shantel Breen.