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 Kim Moran, who is based in Los Angeles. Kim currently shoots for Another Planet Entertainment and freelance for various artists.
Portfolio: www.kdmoran.com
Instagram: @kmoran.creative
What do you shoot with and any favorite lenses?
I shoot on a Sony a7riii with several prime lenses and my favorite 70-200mm zoom.
Do you have a signature editing style or aesthetic to your photography?
Still searching for my signature editing style, but I really enjoy capturing close up and personal portrait shots of artists.
How and when did you get into concert/music photography?
About a year ago.
Do you have a niche or specific genre that you tend to shoot?
Love shooting any type of heavy genre with a particular love for industrial and black metal, but will cover indie, alt and pop, too.
How do you approach capturing the performance energy and atmosphere in your work?
I just try to get really in tune with the performer’s experience and predict their motions. Sometimes I just let the music itself drive me.
Have you photographed any of your favorite artists or events? What do you consider to be your biggest accomplishments so far?
I was honored to have shot the final Skinny Puppy performance after being a longtime fan of the band and the influence they’ve had on some of my other favorite bands. Shooting Cradle of Filth, Silversun Pickups and Future Islands have also been really exciting experiences for my first year. I feel like I’m just getting started so I have so many bucket list goals to accomplish, but I would love to shoot Bring Me the Horizon, Turnstile, Bishop Briggs, Spiritbox, Ice Nine Kills, DeathbyRomy and so many others. Would also love to shoot at some metal music festivals and abroad.
In a perfect world, what would be your dream photo job/opp?
I would love to shoot on tour for a metal band/music artist and be able to become close with them so we could collaborate on visual ideas together on and off tour.
What is one thing you’d like to achieve in 2024?
Tour photography, honestly.
Who in the creative community has inspired you or helped you on your journey?
All via Instagram: @vcordero @goldsightmedia @williamiguess @ashleyosborn @annaleemedia
What is one misconception you’d like to clear up or a hot take you have regarding challenges or life as a concert photographer?
The amount of invisible work is insane, which is true for any type of media work, but that plus the extremely fast turnaround time is absolutely bonkers. I drink Red Bull now!
Additional photos by Kim:
