Rock 'N' Roll in the American South with Jeff Howlett and Lomography Film

This past September, musician & photographer Jeff Howlett was traveling around the American South chasing the inimitable feeling of Rock n' Roll. With Lomography film packed in his bag, he headed to the stomping grounds of Muddy Roots Music Festival in Cookeville, Tennessee and Hopscotch Music Festival in Raleigh, North Carolina to document these spaces and share them with the rest of the world for Lomography Magazine.

Today we talk to him about the experience, touching on what makes the South special for music festivals, the unexpected similarities of analogue and rock, and tips for breaking into the concert photography scene.

Hi Jeff, welcome back to the Lomography Magazine. What have you been up to since we last spoke?

Hi! Thanks for reaching out, I've really enjoyed utilizing Lomography film since we last spoke. Additionally, I’ve been fortunate enough to turn my passion for photography into a career by taking tintype portraits of people from all walks of life. This journey has been incredibly rewarding and has allowed me to connect with so many interesting individuals.

You brought some Lomography film to two festivals – Muddy Roots in Tennessee and Hopscotch in North Carolina. How was your experience at both? Are there any special qualities to music festivals in the South?

I’ve had such a great time using Lomography products, and I must say, I was particularly impressed with the Lady Grey and Lomography Color Negative 800 in medium format. Additionally, attending music festivals in the South has been an incredible experience. The warm and welcoming Southern hospitality truly adds to the charm and enjoyment of these events, making them unforgettable.

In your view, how do analogue photography and Rock 'n' Roll go hand-in-hand?

In my opinion, analogue photography and Rock and Roll music are a perfect match because both rely on manual processes that require a hands-on manual approach and a deep understanding of the craft. Analogue photography, with its film development and darkroom techniques, demands a level of patience and skill that mirrors the raw, unfiltered energy of Rock and Roll music. Just as musicians meticulously tune their instruments and pour their hearts into live performances, photographers carefully compose their shots and capture the essence of a moment.

Which were your favorite music acts to photograph at each festival?

I absolutely loved photographing local acts like Mutant Strain and Mavi from Charlotte, North Carolina. These musicians have quickly become my favorite local acts due to their incredible energy and unique sound. Some other memorable highlights include capturing performances by Jesus Lizard, Witch, Jpegmafia, and Ken Mujo at Hopscotch Music Festival. Each of these artists brought something special to the stage, making the experience unforgettable. One particularly awesome experience was photographing my old bandmate Eugene’s band, Gogol Bordello, at Muddy Roots Music Festival. The combination of reconnecting with an old friend and capturing the vibrant performance of Gogol Bordello made it a truly remarkable moment in my photography journey.

What do you love about the music festival scene and why is it important to document?

I have a deep passion for music festivals, and I find immense joy in photographing them. The variety and culture of music at these events are truly captivating. Festivals like Muddy Roots and Hopscotch, in particular, stand out to me. Muddy Roots offers a unique blend of genres and a raw, authentic atmosphere that is a photographer’s dream. Hopscotch, on the other hand, showcases an eclectic mix of artists and styles, providing endless opportunities to capture the vibrant energy and diverse musical expressions. The combination of different sounds, the enthusiastic crowds, and the overall festival vibe make these experiences incredibly rewarding and unforgettable for me as a photographer.

Do you have any tips for getting the perfect shot during a live show or performance?

My tips for capturing the perfect photograph at a live show start with getting a vibe for the band or performer. It’s essential to spend some time observing their style, energy, and how they interact with the audience. This helps you anticipate key moments and capture the essence of their performance. Additionally, as a musician myself, I find that getting into the rhythm of the music is crucial. The camera becomes an extension of myself, allowing me to sync with the performance and capture the raw, unfiltered energy of the moment. By combining my understanding of music with my passion for analogue photography, I create images that truly reflect the spirit and atmosphere of the live show.

Any advice for someone out there who might be interested in starting out with concert photography?

For anyone starting off with concert photography, my advice is to immerse yourself in a wide range of eclectic music styles. This not only broadens your musical horizons but also helps you understand the diverse energy and dynamics of different genres. Take the time to research and study the music of the artists you plan to photograph. Understanding their style, stage presence, and typical performance moments will give you a significant advantage when capturing their essence on camera. When you’re at the show, let your heart, mind, and soul guide you. Feel the rhythm, connect with the music, and let your intuition lead you. When the moment feels right, click the shutter. This approach will help you capture authentic, powerful images that resonate with the spirit of the performance.

Do you have any exciting gigs or projects coming up that you want to share with our community?

Every gig is a fresh adventure, each one a canvas painted with its own unique hues. As a nomadic tintype and analogue photographer, I'm constantly captivated by the diverse landscapes and experiences that unfold before my lens. I've got a few unannounced projects simmering, ready to surprise and delight. And speaking of surprises, I'm thrilled to share that I'll be showcasing my work in a gallery exhibit here in Rock Hill early next year. It's an honor to be able to share my passion with the community. Now, if you're a business owner or know of a great spot out west, I'd love to hear from you. My goal is to venture westward by the end of the year, capturing the raw beauty and timeless essence of the American frontier.

Anything else you'd like to share?

I'm incredibly grateful to be able to do what I love for a living, as it makes each day feel less like work.

Thank you to Jeff for sharing his work with us! To see more of his photography check out his Instagram.

written by alexa_alexiades on 2024-12-19 #culture #people #places #music #music-festival #lomo-800 #color-negative-800 #lady-grey