Embarking on a biographical venture through the lens of live music, our Photographer Spotlight Series aims to highlight photographers’ talent and perspective — all while showcasing their skill to the creative community and rest of the world. These interviews aspire to provide a glimpse into the world of concert photography uniquely told by each individual and create a network for fellow photographers to link with one another and potential opportunities.
In this feature, we present Brittany Obrzut, who is based in Shenandoah, PA. Brittany currently shoots freelance and has shot for her local radio station in the past.
Portfolio: Google Drive
Instagram: @PullTheTriggerBrittPhotography
What do you shoot with and any favorite lenses?
Nikon z5 with a mixture of prime lenses: 35mm/1.2, 50mm/1.2, 85mm/1.2
Do you have a signature editing style or aesthetic to your photography?
I have a mixture of aesthetics. I have yet to pick a favorite.
How and when did you get into concert/music photography?
At 15, I received a Nikon d40 for Christmas, so it came along with me everywhere circa 2006 — whether it be to the YMCA for a local show or in the middle of a pit at Warped Tour. I also loved bringing my point and shoot camera to every concert when I didn’t have my Nikon. At 32, I have finally started pursuing my love for concert photography and I think its about time I took this next step to live my dream!
Do you have a niche or specific genre that you tend to shoot?
All genres are welcome, but I have a love for rock/hardcore/metal/alt. I am a big pop and rap lover, too!
How do you approach capturing the performance energy and atmosphere in your work?
Most are in it for those “up close in the photo pit” shots and although those are important shots to get, my personal favorite are made from inside the crowd. Getting the depth of being in the middle of that crowd, especially when it’s a crowd that really connects with one another. I love to capture that the most. I’m good at finding the right person to grab a shot of them singing out loud or a group of kids will stop and pose for me bc they feel so great and want me to capture their moment via telepathy. I love feeling the music, connecting with the crowd and really just making sure I can put my audience in that crowd with me.
Have you photographed any of your favorite artists or events? What do you consider to be your biggest accomplishments so far?
September 2023 was my first time finally shooting a band on a professional level and not just a teenager at Warped Tour. I shot my favorite band (who I’ve seen a whopping 17 times) called Vanna back in the 2000s, but now they go by Inspirit. They’re a couple of great musicians who made a name for themselves. They always kept friendly with me over the years after we met crashing at a friends house post-show back in the 2000s. Senses Fail and The Fall Of Troy were both mind blowing gigs to get for me. My biggest accomplishment was the show I shot for my local radio station 979X Cumulus Media station. I landed the Ice Nine Kills, New Years Day and Avatar show. My dreams came true that night. I got to meet the band, bring my 2 kids and mom with me, get my son front row and even get him a guitar pick. I impressed myself with how great some of my shots came out. I’m still in awe over the whole thing. It really is a whole different level of euphoria when you get to capture killer shots of your favorite artists.
In a perfect world, what would be your dream photo job/opp?
Tour photography would be amazing… a house photographer would be just as ideal, too!
What is one thing you’d like to achieve in 2024?
A paid gig would blow my mind. Landing these few big name shows I have lined up would be insane!
Who in the creative community has inspired you or helped you on your journey?
Jeremy Saffer will always stick out to me in this industry… but, so will the few wonderful photographers I’ve met along the way this past year. Sarah Carmody is a wonderful human. Jim Helmcy at No Barricades Photography has been so helpful by simply just saying, “If you’re ever stuck with something in the middle of a show just give me a call and I’ll answer.” So many other wonderful people, but these 3 stick out the most here.
What is one misconception you’d like to clear up or a hot take you have regarding challenges or life as a concert photographer?
I do understand there isn’t a lot of money to be made in this industry, but I do want to stress that this is a pure dream for me. I bartend for a reason, but I do hope one day I can hang up the bartending and have my own studio as my sole income source.
Additional photos by Brittany:
