There’s an unspoken pact between live musicians and concert photographers.
They get the first three songs — that’s the rule — and in that short window, under 10 minutes, they have to capture the whole story: the sweat, the spark, the energy, the human of it all.

Most concert photographers aren’t getting paid. They do it for the love of it — for documenting, for community, for being part of something that only exists in the moment. They battle unpredictable lighting, shifting moods, and sometimes the audience, security, or even the bands themselves.

Over time, you start to recognize the same faces in the pit. They’re not just photographers anymore — they’re part of the magic, and the fun.

One of the most beautiful things for me is when I start to see them through their work — their passion, their perspective, their timing. (Most aren’t only shooting bands or concerts; they have other projects, other topics.)

Here’s a shot of me spotting photographer Karla Moheno (@karlarosem) unexpectedly in the pit — I think she captured my joy and surprise at seeing her perfectly.

This was shot on the @littlesteven_ug — what an unforgettable ride.

#JenniferFinch #L7 #PunkPhotography #LiveMusic #ConcertPhotography #MusicCommunity #RockPhotography #PunkRock