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 Kelly Hough, who is based in Youngstown, Ohio. Kelly is currently a photographer for Backward Noise and Disrupted Magazine.
Portfolio: https://shotbykelly.myportfolio.com/
Instagram: @kellyhough_
What do you shoot with and any favorite lenses?
Canon R6! My favorite lens will forever be my 24-70mm!
Do you have a signature editing style or aesthetic to your photography?
I love editing moody, but popping out colors to make it stand out more — Using lens filters/fractals also makes me happy because it makes the photos pop more! I also love editing in warm tones.
How and when did you get into concert/music photography?
I got into it in 2019 after taking some iPhone photos at a Chase Atlantic concert, and being told I have an eye for it and a couple of people telling me to try it out. I bought a camera and never looked back!
Do you have a niche or specific genre that you tend to shoot?
Metal and pop punk are definitely my go-to since they’re my favorite genres and all the bands I listen to on a daily rotation! I cover all genres but mainly metal — it has my heart completely due to the energetic stage presence and fast pace. It always keeps me on my feet.
How do you approach capturing the performance energy and atmosphere in your work?
A lot of shows I do are all very high energy all the time. It is usually made easy with the crowd always going wild and the artists interacting with the crowd. Crowd and artist interaction is always one of my favorite things to capture.
Have you photographed any of your favorite artists or events?
I have photographed a good portion of my favorite artists. One tour that stands out: I got the opportunity to shoot Alice Cooper, Def Leppard & Mötley Crüe. As small as I feel, that show made me think “I made it.” But as for bucket list: it’s forever Bad Omens. Their energy is insane and always one of my favorite bands to see as a fan. I would love to photograph them one day.
In a perfect world, what would be your dream photo job/opp?
As of right now I am unsure, learning to live in the moment and just have fun other than stressing!
What is one thing you’d like to achieve in 2024?
Touring. I would love to go on my first run this year, but right now we are vibing.
Who in the creative community has inspired you or helped you on your journey?
I have made so many amazing friends in this crazy industry and I appreciate them all so much. I couldn’t just name one or a few. With my friends and acquaintances, we all hype up each other and always share tips on editing and trying different things and I find it so beautiful we help out each other so much.
What is one misconception you’d like to clear up or a hot take you have regarding challenges or life as a concert photographer?
A lot of people think we just click a button and just get to go to shows all the time. Which in a way is correct, but no one will ever understand how much stress you receive trying to get everything done in a timely manor — especially if you also have two full time jobs like myself. Sleep isn’t an option in most cases!
Additional photos by Kelly:
