#579 Zenia Monteagudo is an experienced music and event photographer who has recently begun exploring family portraiture. Zenia shares her personalized journey into photography, starting from her early fascination with disposable and point-and-shoot cameras to a pivotal moment when she purchased a Sony camera on clearance at Target. This chance purchase set her on an unexpected path, leading to opportunities in music photography, including shooting concerts at iconic venues like Red Rocks.

KEY TOPICS COVERED

Starting a Photography Journey & Building Confidence - Zenia’s chance transition from hobbyist to semi-professional highlights the role of curiosity and saying "yes" to new experiences, even without a portfolio. Building confidence can be a struggle, but validation from others—such as bands requesting to use her photos—provided the encouragement to pursue her passion professionally.
Concert Photography: Skills, Challenges, and Opportunities - Zenia offers a frank look at shooting concerts, from initial “shot in the dark” gigs to handling pro gear, unpredictable lighting, and the high-energy atmosphere of music events. She emphasizes the need for adaptability, technical growth (moving from kit lenses and manual focus to more sophisticated equipment), and the thrill of capturing authentic moments.
Transitioning Between Genres & The Power of Candid Photography - The episode contrasts concert photography with family portraiture and events, exploring Zenia’s process as she adapts to settings with different expectations, emotion levels, and technical requirements. Her candid approach, focused on real moments over posed photos, remains consistent.

IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS

Photo Pass: Special permission or credentials granted (often by a venue or band) allowing a photographer to access areas for professional photography, particularly in concert settings. It often requires a portfolio and/or assignment from a publication.
Candid Photography: A style of photography where subjects are captured naturally, without posed arrangements or direct awareness of the camera. This approach centers on authenticity, emotion, and storytelling.

DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS

What opportunities can arise from saying "yes" to experiences outside your comfort zone as a photographer?
How does photographing candid moments at events or concerts build storytelling skills in photography?
In what ways does the environment (concert, event, family session) influence the techniques and mindset you bring as a photographer?

RESOURCES:
Follow Zenia Monteagudo on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/zen_e_ah_/

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Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

Gaining Access and Experience in Concert Photography with Zenia Monteagudo

The Beginner Photography Podcast