Tell us about your winning photo…

I took this picture during my first time taking photographs at a gig and it made me want to continue this in the future because of how enjoyable it was. This picture demonstrates the start of my music photography journey which is why it means a lot to me. I started taking pictures at Ned's gigs in February last year as I needed somewhere to start out and he was kind enough to let me. Since then, I've been to a few of his gigs and taken pictures and I feel I have been able to improve my own skill whilst also providing him with pictures for his website. I submitted this particular image to the competition because I really like how the spontaneity of it shows how in music photography you have to be in the right place at the right time to capture an image like this.

Tell us about you journey as a music photographer…

Originally, I started photography as a hobby when I was 15 and I mainly focused on nature and architecture. I've now realised it has become a big part of my life and would like to continue it professionally in the future. As a big fan of music myself, I started to see other photographers taking pictures of my favourite artists on stage and realised I'd like to try this area of photography.

I thought that being a young photographer would mean that I wouldn't get taken as seriously as more experienced photographers in the industry, however, I've been lucky enough to have very supportive people around me who give me the confidence to continue my work.

What do you love about music photography?

I love the rawness of music photography and the fact that you always have to be prepared to capture the unrepeatable moments that happen during gigs. The atmosphere in a concert venue is like nothing else which is why I keep going back. Even though there have been times where the pictures I've taken haven't been as good as I hoped, there's always that oppourtunity to try a different approach at the next gig which I think allows more creative freedom than other areas of photography.

Where do you usually shoot live music?

Currently, I have mainly done shoots in York (The Fulford Arms & Angel On The Green) and Leeds (The Wardrobe) but I am looking to branch out into more venues in the near future. I shoot mainly more intimate scenes as it is usually easier to move around with my camera but I wouldn't be against shooting at busier gigs.