New Zealand is the country where we had spent the most time, but also the one I felt most reluctant to leave. So many places would have needed more time to explore, too many places we have not been to. So many photographs taken and still so many more waiting around every corner. This post is a warm farewell to a very special country and an opportunity to ponder the point of this blog.
Collaborations with musicians are the backbone of our project. Anna is the one who is actively connecting the dots, working with wonderful people, and bringing music to the stage. However, it was clear from the very beginning that I would do my share by documenting the project. But what does that actually mean?
Travelling has always inspired photographers, amateurs and pros alike, for the novelty of surroundings, impressions, and opportunities. It is a highly welcome chance to break the mould and find something new to shoot. I am by no means a landscape photographer, but when I am surrounded by New Zealand’s natural beauty, I find it almost impossible to go hiking without a camera. Similarly, I am no street photographer, but some cityscapes and street scenes have inspired me to immerse myself and shoot for my enjoyment. My actual field of photography, however, is music photography. I have been shooting concerts for over a decade now – not for a living, but with a professional mindset (see my photography page here). Most of the times, I shoot concerts that barely make enough money for the musicians, let alone a photographer. The reason I photograph music anyway is my desire to document what I find interesting. While music is intended to be experienced in the moment, I feel that making emotions visible is still worthwhile. This is why I embarked on this journey together with Anna: to tell the story that goes beyond music and to share it with the world.
My part of the project is telling the story. And while I enjoy using words to communicate my own thoughts as well as the technicalities of travelling, I could never make do without images. Photography is my way of exploring, of making sense of the world. And in some instances, when I find something might be interesting for others as well, I love sharing a story. In this particular case, it’s the stories of the people we meet, the music that comes from the collaborations, and the incredible places we visit. To conclude our time in New Zealand, I would like to share some images I made at the concert Anna played together with Ariana Tikao at the Auckland Arts Festival. Playing in a venue that is not intended for music can be challenge in some respects, but at the same time it is very rewarding to connect to a new place and audience. Thank you Te Uru Gallery.
