Life on the Road by Christopher Durst
June 6, 2011 2 Comments
The last few weeks have been crazy to say the least! I’ve had the opportunity to photograph some of the most uniquely talented artists in the industry. From Los Angeles to New York, London to Milan, I have photographed everyone from Jane’s Addiction and Social Distortion to Justin Bieber and Lady Gaga, not to mention some of my personal favorites like Jason Aldean, Merle Haggard, Seasick Steve and Willie Nelson.
Living the life of a concert photographer is an absolute dream come true. The industry has its ups and downs but for the most part it’s a nonstop party 24 hours a day. There’s just something about being on the road that resonates so heavily within me. I guess it’s the freedom you feel, that nomadic mentality, it’s being in a different city and experiencing something new every single night; it’s my life…and I love it!
I’m frequently asked if I ever get burnt-out, without hesitation my answer is always and emphatically, NO! I absolutely LOVE what I do. I mean let’s get real, I get paid to travel around the world and take photos of famous musicians. What’s there to get burnt-out on?! I chose this life for a reason, because I love it.
I’ve witnessed some pretty comical things during my travels! It’s the craziest thing, everyone just loses their minds on tour. It’s like being kids all over again but with absolutely NO restrictions whatsoever (queue ‘Schools out for Summer’). I’ve seen artists highway surf on their buses, I’ve seen moms and daughters do things together that they shouldn’t…it’s as real as it gets, it’s what stories are made of, it’s how musicians metamorphose into iconic rock stars.
When I’m not traveling I spend the majority of my time in Austin, Texas where I’m surrounded by a loving circle of beautifully talented friends and family. Spending time with them inspires me and reminds me of who I am. I absolutely love and adore each and every one of them. That being said, it only takes a few days off the road before I start developing the itch to tour again.
Photography facts about me…
1. I only use Canon products
2. I developed my own proprietary software
3. I travel roughly 220 days a year
4. I specialize in concert photography & tour documentary
5. I have photographed over 50 platinum selling artists
6. I have been published 36 times in 2011
7. I work with 14 publications worldwide
8. I will document 3 different tours this summer
9. Willie Nelson is my favorite musician to photograph
10. Jim Marshall, Robert Knight and Bob Gruen are my idols
One thing I’d like to mention is the lack of comradery between photographers in our industry. I have been witness to many altercations between photogs over the years. Though the industry has become extremely competitive, it isn’t justification to be rude and obnoxious to your colleagues. My advice to anyone seeking a career in music photography is to always remain kind. Love your peers and respect the icons that helped build and shape this industry. Be humble and have integrity and you will prosper.
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank each and every person that follows my work…THANK YOU, it means the world to me!
Christopher
