Pressure and Getting it Done

Every now and then, just when I think I have it all together, the pressure to get it all done, and done right sets in. It was Thanksgiving, I had concerts scheduled, we were passing a family illness around the house, and there was even an on site band press photo session coming up.

10 Years - © 2010 Michael Warth / Warth Photo

Thanksgiving went well, and fortunately I didn't over eat! I used to always feel like crap because of how much I would eat with the in-laws and then again at my Mom's house. Not anymore, I just quit eating before I'm full and enjoy the time with family.

Now that the family sicknesses have gone around and Thanksgiving was a success I looked to the concerts and press shoots. I had the Privilege to photograph 10 Years, and American Fangs December 1st before the show at McGuffy's House of Rock in Dayton, Ohio.

With band schedules, and venue requirements, there are always changes to the preplanned photo arrangements. And that is the real pressure. When me and my assistant made our way into the venue we got with the contact we were given by band's PR company. What was to be a 6:30 and 7:15 photoshoot turned into a 6:30 and 6:45. No worries, just had to move quick. We had to have the gear out by 7 since the venue was opening the doors to the public. Alright, no pressure, just get the bands in there and make good photographs as fast as possible, don't waste their time and do your best because there are a lot of people expecting to see great photos!

The headlining band 10 Years was first. After the introductions I got them into a formation and fired a test shot. My assistant and I already had a good start since we took several test shots before they got to the shoot. A few position changes and we had it. A press photo for the magazine. Now all we had to do was get American Fangs done before the doors opened.

American Fangs - © 2010 Michael Warth / Warth Photo

Everything went smooth! Both bands were awesome...they were ready to go and helped keep the schedule going. The tour manager / front of house guy, Mike, was great and he made sure we got what we needed. The pressure of getting it all done was greatly eliminated by working with all the great industry professionals involved with this tour.

James Scott / State Your Cause

The opening band was none other than Ohio's own State Your Cause. A great, high energy rock band, State Your Cause is in my opinion one of the best unsigned bands in Ohio and having them on the bill Wednesday night was a bonus. I always enjoy seeing them play. Unfortunately, there was not enough time to get a press photo of them this time.

Wednesday night was the first time I've seen them play with their new bass player Corey Catlett (former bass player in Ardor). Corey is an awesome bass guitarist and really found a home with State Your Cause, they sounded like they have been playing for years. One would never think he is the new guy.

I have to say the entire concert was more than I bargained for. It was so much fun to meet the bands, make some photos, and enjoy the show. The staff at McGuffy's was great! Better than most really, and they made me feel right at home. Particularly the house photographer...thanks Toby, you rock bra'!

I can't say too much here in this blog about the show since the complete show review and many more photos are being used for an upcoming issue of Alternative Revolt Magazine. So if you want to read more about this show, be sure to check out the magazine in January.

Corey Catlett / State Your Cause - © 2010 Michael Warth / Warth Photo

If you are in a band and want press photos and/or live photo coverage, give me a call (740-703-2396) or send me an email ( mike at warthphoto dot com) and we'll make a deal.

- Mike