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 Steve Rose, who is based in Los Angeles. Steve currently shoots for Live Nation, Goldenvoice, Journey, and Knotfest.
Portfolio: https://www.steverosephotos.com/portfolio
Instagram: @steve_rose
What do you shoot with and any favorite lenses?
Sony a7III and a7IV. I use a 24-70 and 70-200, but from time to time use a 150-600.
Do you have a signature editing style or aesthetic to your photography?
I have a recipe that I’ve been tweaking for about 7 years.
How and when did you get into concert/music photography?
I started shooting shows in 2015.
Do you have a niche or specific genre that you tend to shoot?
I try to cover all genres, but my preference is rock.
How do you approach capturing the performance energy and atmosphere in your work?
I try to find the moments in the show that will best highlight the performance for someone who didn’t attend the show.
Have you photographed any of your favorite artists or events? What do you consider to be your biggest accomplishments so far?
I’ve been fortunate to have photographed a number of my favorite artists and have my photos used by my favorite artists. Some of my biggest accomplishments have been: having a photo used in a book put out by the Smithsonian, having a photo featured on the Grammys, and developing relationships with a number of key figures in this industry.
In a perfect world, what would be your dream photo job/opp?
Pearl Jam tour photographer.
What is one thing you’d like to achieve in 2024?
To be busier than I was in 2023.
Who in the creative community has inspired you or helped you on your journey?
I have a number of friends who are really good at this and it pushes me to always try to be better than I was the last time.
What is one misconception you’d like to clear up or a hot take you have regarding challenges or life as a concert photographer?
That it isn’t an easy job. The task of taking photos themselves might be the least challenging, but finding photo opportunities, let alone paid ones, can be tough. Dealing with publicists can be tough at times and early on it was tough getting approved for a lot of shows. You have to get used to getting rejection emails or sometimes no email and find the next opportunity while not getting discouraged. It’s not always easy to do.
Additional photos by Steve:
