The last time I photographed a band was, well, too many years ago to remember exactly.  I do remember I used a Minolta film camera, it was before digital cameras were around, in fact, it was before the internet was around and computers were still the domain of the big companies and geeks.

So couple of weeks ago when I got an email asking if I would like to photograph a couple of bands who were coming down from Bristol, I said yes, without thinking. It wasn’t  until later I start to think, “heck, that might be tricky. Low light.”

(Laid Blak - Urban Reggae Heavyweights Laid Blak originate from Bristol, England and are taking the UK Live music venues and underground club scene by storm)

Normally, put me in a crowded room and I will edge to the corner, a nice firm wall behind me, but with a camera in my hand I become a different person. I’m able to “mingle”  or more to the point push and shove my way through the crowd. I tend to shut off from the actual activity I am shooting, I see what’s going on but only from a photographic point of view. If I were photographing a football match I wouldn’t know the score at the end of the game.

But on this occasion it was hard not to be involved in the music. Both bands have a great sound and I would definitely want to see them play again and as soon as this is posted I am going over to iTunes to download Laid Blak’s new single “Crazy”.

(above – Laid Blak)

(above – Shoot the Moon)

(above – Shoot the Moon)

Click here to view my Shoot the Moon and Laid Blak photo galleries

If you get a chance go and see either or both of these bands, DO.

The gig was put on by The Mineral Line Group – click here

Laid Blak on Facebook – click here

Shoot the Moon on Facebook – click here

(For those who care, all the shots were taken using an ISO of between 1600 and 6400 – I’ve never shot up in those numbers before. Equipment : D700, Nikon 17-35mm and Nikon 1.4 50mm lenses.)

(above – Laid Blak – “It’s a pity”)

(above – Shoot the Moon – “SkaRocka” EP Launch Night)