(Toronto, ON) – For most people, reading through an article in the paper or magazine, don’t pay close attention to who or how the enclosed images came to light. Sure sometimes an image speaks to the reader, other time it’s an accessory to the story. Within the music photographers world, there are a handful of highly talented individuals who grace the pages of articles, advertisement, band promos and album covers. Don’t get me wrong, actually the concert photographer market is highly over saturated.
However there are a select few who can thrive and succeed in this industry. One such expert in the field of concert photography is Toronto based, award winning photographer Igor Vidyashev.
Igor was born and raised in Saint Petersburg, Russia. He discovered his passion for music at the young age of 10, learning the trumpet and guitar. While in school, he discovered he had a natural talent for photography, although he never pursued it professionally. Fast forward to 2008, after working in the field of Electronics and IT Engineer for many years, he sought out an education in photography at the prestigious New York Institute of Photography.
Igor’s images have graced the pages of Rolling Stone, Billboard, Metal Hammer, Guitar Player, Newsweek, Wall Street Journal, Total Guitar, Vogue, Elle, GQ, MAXIM, Vanity Fair, Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, US Weekly, Hello!, Popular Photography, New York Times.
His client list includes Live Nation, Monsters Of Rock Cruise, Roy Thomson Hall, Air Canada Centre, uniFrance Films, Rehearsal Factory, Panama Ministry of Trade and a list of bands and musicians worldwide.
Being an avid photographer myself, I discovered and began following Igor through Twitter. His talent and consistency had me wishing I could have 1/10th of his capabilities. After months of following his work, he posted an advertisement that intrigued me, announcing that he was doing educational classes on “How to become a Rock & Roll photographer”. Now at this point, I had shot several shows from the audience. Some shows I turned out good, but not great results, while others where complete write offs. I researched his link, read through the testimonials, all with raving reviews of how he instantly improved their images. I looked him up on Facebook and sent him a message expressing my interest in taking his class. Within moments he responded and answered all my questions. I signed up and eagerly anticipated my first lesson.
After the first lesson, I felt like a light bulb went off in my head. Things that I had never considered where brought to the forefront. Tips and tricks that literally had me flying high for days on end. The first concert that I shot after taking my lesson was a vast improvement. I had many more “keepers” and exposures where greatly improved. I was giddy with excitement that I had immediately improved my images. I strive to improve my personal best, and that first show afterwards solidified that goal I had placed for myself. Lesson two and three didn’t cease to amaze me. Instant improvements regarding editing and workflow ensued.
Although I’ve only known Igor for approximately five months, I consider him my mentor and friend. He graciously accepted my interview request. Speaking with him over Skype, here’s his interesting story.
Sue – Tell us about how you got started in photography.
Igor – At the age of 10, while in school, I discovered I had a talent for taking pictures. My father was an advanced amateur and had many cameras as well as a home lab to develop images. He taught me all the basics. I participated in many photography summer camps. It was then that I received my first awards for my images.
Sue – Within what genre of photography do you have experience?
Igor – During the early years I did sports, arts, nature, wedding, portraiture and family sessions. As my career progressed I did fashion photography, red carpet events etc. ultimately leading to concert photography.
Sue – Please tell our readers about your first experience as a concert photographer. What was your first major show?
Igor – My first experience was with a band from my hometown of St Petersburg called Billy’s Band. They were playing here in Toronto at the Mod club. I invited them to my studio and had a fun session with them. They in turn, invited me to their show with an all access pass. From then on I was hooked. My first assignment was for the webzine called “Live in Limbo” The show was Thin Lizzy at the Sound Academy, followed by Rod Stewart and Stevie Nicks (ex Fleetwood Mac) at the Air Canada Centre. I knew it was something I wanted to pursue.
Sue – Did you ever anticipate the successes that you’ve achieved as a concert photographer?
Igor – I’ve always had the mentality that I would strive to be the best that I can. For 2 years I attended the New York Institute of Photography. I still continue to study photography diligently, by any means possible. It’s important to remain current with your knowledge.
Sue – Was it a long process?
Igor – I wasn’t young when I started concert photography. I was in my 50s and decided I needed to set a goal for myself. Either I would make it or leave it after 5 years. Through hard work and determination I was fortunate to have achieved the goal I had set out to attain.
Sue – Who do you look up to?
Igor – I don’t look up to any photographer. Don’t get me wrong. I have many photographer friends, and I appreciate and respect their work. However I have and want my own style. Photography is about individuality. I don’t want to copy others.
Sue – Who is your favorite band or musician to photograph?
Igor – I thoroughly enjoy photographing Rolling Stones and Zakk Wylde’s Black Label Society. Zakk and myself have built a personal relationship, and for that I’m thankful. But I must say I’ve made a new discovery this past month while photographing the band Europe at the Monster of Rock Cruise. Joey Tempest and the crew really made it an easy and fun experience for all the photographers.
Sue – Any advice for budding photographers who are interested in Concert photography?
Igor – Concert photography is an incredibly tough market to break through. In general it’s extremely over saturated. Seems like everyone wants to be a music photographer. So with that much competition it’s very difficult to be noticed in the industry. My advice is, if you are serious, you need to be better that the vast majority, because good simply isn’t good enough. Your work needs to stand out in the crowd. Be prepared to put in the work involved to be successful. Also don’t be disillusioned to think that you can just say it’s for my portfolio. Most times you are required to be representing a publication.
Sue – Is the life of a concert photographer all parties and rubbing elbows with famous people?
Igor – Being a hired photographer, it’s important to realize that you are there professionally, to provide a service. On occasion you do find yourself backstage with a band. But you have to remain professional.
Sue – You own and operate RockXposure.com. Care to share info about your site?
Igor – The website represents my body of work. Not only does it have concert photography, but also has images of celebrities and sporting events. You can also find a selection of my published work. I also provide information of my classes on how to become a “Rock & Roll Photographer”. There are many testimonials from my clients as well. It’s user friendly and is easy to navigate.
Sue – Thank you Igor for taking the time to do this interview. Music Life Magazine and myself greatly appreciate it!
For more information on Igor Vidyashev please visit:
His Website: www.rockxposure.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/rockxposure
Twitter: @rockXposure
Instagram: ROCKXPOSURE
All images by Igor Vidyashev. Copying of images is strictly prohibited.
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