Instantly Hooked: Photographing Novelists

I recently had the opportunity to photograph Novelists while they were opening for one of my favorite bands, Dance Gavin Dance. Going into the show, I was obviously excited for the headliner, but I never expected Novelists to end up being my favorite set of the night.

This was my first time seeing them perform live, and from the moment they stepped on stage, I was instantly hooked.

Camille Contreras, the band's frontwoman, made an unforgettable entrance wearing a fluffy pink dress that completely stood out in a room filled with black band tees and the usual metalcore aesthetic. It was so unexpected and completely out of left field for a heavy show, but somehow it fit perfectly.

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As a photographer, everything seemed to come together. The lighting, the energy, the contrast of her outfit against the atmosphere of the venue, it all created some of my favorite photos I've taken at a concert.

Then there was her voice.

Her vocals immediately pulled me into their set. One moment there were powerful screams filling the venue, and the next there was a soft, heartfelt "thank you so much" at the end of each song. That contrast between intensity and sweetness made their performance even more memorable.

By the end of their set, I found myself becoming a fan. It's funny how live music can do that. You go in expecting one thing and leave completely captivated by something unexpected.

Maybe it's the atmosphere, maybe it's Camille's stage presence, or maybe I just have a newfound appreciation for French bands and their music. Whatever it is, Novelists left a lasting impression on me, both as a fan and as a photographer, and I already can't wait to see them perform again.