The ability to capture the essence of live shows, in the Digital Age, has become an art form. The production of concert photography is becoming just as influential, in band history, as the live show itself. One of Seattle's music scenes' most notable concert photographers, Jason Tang, has been front and center to this growing art movement. We had the opportunity to ask Jason a few questions about his experience.
The Triple Door: What do you love about being a photographer?
Jason Tang: I love being surrounded by so many talented and caring people in this community - whether it's musicians, fans, or fellow photographers. That's what inspires me to be more creative and constantly hone my craft.
TD: Describe your photography in three words:
JT: First Three Songs
TD: If you could have dinner with any photographer in history, who would it be? What would you ask him or her?
JT: Jim Marshall. I'd ask him what it was like to shoot The Beatles' last official concert (at Candlestick Park) and what his favorite rock concert moments were.
TD: What's the craziest thing you've ever done to get the best shot?
JT: I've never done anything really crazy to get a shot. Usually, I'm lucky to be in the right place at the right time. Back in 2010, when Fitz & The Tantrums came to Seattle for the first time at The Crocodile, Michael (Fitz) Fitzpatrick pulled me up on stage during the last song of the set. In the process, I accidentally hit Noelle Scaggs (co-lead singer) in the face with the mic stand. It was pretty embarrassing, but I got some pretty cool shots from the stage.
TD: As a music photographer, or Rocktographer as you're affectionately called, where do you see the Seattle music scene in 10 years?
JT: Seattle has been the source for some great rock bands over the years, but lately we've been seeing the hip-hop, soul, blues, and folk/americana communities garner some major national attention. The music scene here will continue to thrive... there's no doubt about that. I hope to see many local bands that I've followed and supported over the years in bigger and better places over the next decade.
TD: What band and/or musician are you dying to photograph?
JT: Pearl Jam. I've photographed all the guys in their individual side projects over the years, but never together at the same time. Soon... hopefully! Paul McCartney at Safeco would be killer too!
TD: Photos capture moments in time - for us to remember. Take an imaginary photo of 10 years from now, describe it.
JT: Still living in Seattle with my wife and our two dogs, loving life, traveling, volunteering, and shooting concerts once in a while.
For the full month of July, the walls in the Musicquarium will be covered in concert photography by Seattle area Rocktographer, Jason Tang. Join us for the opening reception with, special musical guests, Hot Bodies In Motion and Eternal Fair, on July 3, from 5-7PM, with happy hour specials until 7PM {21+}. RSVP here>>
