How Rock Photography and Editorial Portraits Became My Creative Calling

I’ve always felt like editorial and rock photography found me—not the other way around. Growing up, I was obsessed with album art, 70s photoshoots, and images that defied convention. The rebellious visuals of glam rock and bold Rolling Stone cover planted the seeds of my artistic journey, even when I didn’t know it yet.

As a kid, I never fit into the mainstream mold. I craved something raw, edgy, and boho chic—something that lit my creative soul on fire. But back then, I told myself I wasn’t “good” at art. I built walls around creativity instead of leaning in. Spoiler alert: I didn’t hate art. I just hadn’t found my voice yet.

Discovering My Creative Style

When I entered the world of live music photography, everything shifted. I didn’t want just to document performances—I wanted to create imagery that told stories, the way iconic album covers or publicity photos drew me into a band I’d never heard of. I dreamed of my images living on posters, album sleeves, and Instagram feeds, becoming part of an artist's branding.

The turning point came when I discovered Abbey Anderson’s editorial photography course. She wasn’t teaching wedding photography or picture-perfect family portraits—she was diving into the chaos and creativity that defined editorial art. For the first time, I felt seen. I wasn’t a traditional photographer, and that was okay. I wanted to capture the energy of a band promo, the emotion of a backstage moment, and the striking beauty of a 70s-inspired photoshoot.

Finding My Groove: Rock Photography Meets Editorial Flair

From that moment on, I leaned into what made my art unique. Whether I’m capturing a glam rock-inspired editorial, an intimate boho photoshoot, or a film photography project with the Olympus Stylus, I’ve found joy in creating stand-out images. I blend elements of Polaroid photography, instant film, and digital work to give my photos a timeless, yet unconventional feel.

Photographing live music has taught me to embrace unpredictability—lighting, motion, and raw emotion are all part of the story. As a music festival photographer and Atlanta event photographer, I’ve worked to capture both the spectacle of live performances and quieter, behind-the-scenes moments. Those snapshots often become an artist’s most personal branding tools, gracing album art, publicity photos, and editorial spreads.

Why This Style Matters in the Music Industry

In today’s world, visuals are everything. As an Atlanta portrait photographer and music industry photographer, I understand how much weight a single photo carries. Band portraits, concert shots, and tour photography aren’t just pretty pictures—they’re tools for connection. They tell fans who an artist is, where they’ve been, and what they stand for.

I approach every photoshoot as a creative director, weaving together themes of boho chic, glam rock, and editorial storytelling. Whether I’m photographing a band promo in a gritty industrial space or creating a nostalgic Polaroid photoshoot with instant film, my goal is always the same: to capture a story worth remembering.

The Work I Love Creating

Now, I live for moments that blend the bold with the unconventional. I thrive on experimenting with textures, light, and themes that push boundaries. My favorite projects include:

• Tour photography: Capturing artists in their element, on and off stage.

• Album art and publicity photos: Creating images that define an artist’s identity.

• Live music photography: Freezing the energy of a live music performance in a single frame.

• Editorial shoots: Channeling campy, 70s-inspired vibes with a modern twist.

The Journey Continues

This journey into rock photography and editorial portraits has shown me that visuals are powerful. They live on coffee tables, bedroom walls, and social media feeds, shaping how fans connect with music. I’ve found my voice in the chaos of photographing live music, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Here are a few of my favorite pieces—images that capture the energy, artistry, and storytelling that fuel my passion as a band photographer and Atlanta portrait photographer. Whether you’re an artist, creative director, or fan, I hope these images inspire you as much as they inspire me.

Ready to create your next album cover, band promo, or festival shoot? Let’s bring your story to life.