Member Spotlight: Charlie Lederer
Our last CMC member spotlight of February features Charlie Lederer. Check out what Charlie has to say about concert photography and what inspires him while shooting.
Pre-covid, you shot a lot of concerts. How did you get your start with concert photography? What do you like about it?
I went to college with the intention of becoming a musician, but once I got there I discovered I liked being behind the scenes more than being on stage. We had a recording studio on campus that I spent way too much time in producing albums and live streaming concerts. I became a photographer out of happenstance from this. Musicians would come to me needing photos and instead of turning them away, I took it as a challenge.
After moving to New York, I hit the local music scene to shoot any performances I could find. I had to start over from college and make a name for myself. Venues like “Rockwood” or “The Bitter End” became my second home as I would spend nights just shooting whoever everyone on stage. Afterwards, I’d send them three or four of my best shots and eventually they would reach back out asking me to shoot their next show.
I like the energy each musician brings with them. The amount of time and detail performers put into each show is immeasurable, and to capture even a small piece of that in one photo is a challenge. But when you know what to look for and time it just right, it’s an incredibly rewarding experience.
What is your favorite thing about photography?
I try to see the world through the lens of performance. Commuting to work, grocery shopping, hanging in the park. Everyone plays a part in the performance of our daily lives and contributes to the beauty in these moments. Capturing moments like this is like capturing a feeling. Happiness, pain, nostalgia, understanding. The goal of my photography is to preserve these emotions. When i’m successful in this, it’s my favorite thing.
Do you have any inspirations that guide what you shoot?
David Yarrow is an incredible wildlife photographer. He once said “If you want to be a better photographer, put better things in front of your camera,” and that resonated with me. When I find I’m uninspired, I remember that I live in an amazing city where inspiration is right outside, all I have to do is get off the couch and look for it.
Tell us about one of your favorite photo projects. Can you please share 3-5 photos from your project?
2020 was going to be the year I shot at least one concert a week and built a book of the indie music scene in New York City. That obviously didn’t work out. I have a few shots from the beginning of last year, and looking back on these images remind me of when we were able to enjoy live music. I’m looking forward to when it will be safe to go to shows again and continue this project.
