We’ve combed through thousands of photos from this past year to select Grimy Goods’ Best Concert Photography of 2016. While we kiss 2016 goodbye, both the good and bad, let’s focus on all the greatness that 2016 brought us: MUSIC. Without a doubt, music is one of the greatest gifts. Attending a live concert is even greater. Words can’t describe the emotion, energy and cathartic release one receives while seeing a live show. It’s truly an incredible life experience. But how do you capture and convey all those incredible feels? What makes for exceptional concert photography? As I’ve said many times in our past best concert photography features, it ain’t all about the fancy equipment. Sure, money can buy you some crisp photos, but money can’t buy you an artistic eye. That comes with years of experience, and for some, well some are just born with it.

This year my husband helped me go through all of Grimy Goods’ photo galleries. He’s a professional photographer/videographer, and the past few years he’s been directing live concerts and commercials for online and television broadcast. Four artistic eyes are better than one. With that said, selecting the best concert photography of the year was no easy feat. It took time and a lot of discussion and understanding. When it comes down to it, what makes an extraordinary live concert photo? Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as just nailing the technicals. While composition, balance, use of color and line can make a fine aesthetic, we looked to the exceptional photographs that not only mastered all the right settings in the heat of the photo pit, but also captured the raw energy of the performers or elevated the moments with artist technique and stylistic choices.

A huge thank you and congrats to all of the gifted and passionate photographers at Grimy Goods. Your handwork and dedication to your craft is beyond inspiring. May 2017 bless you in all your creative endeavors.