“I simply love photographing live music and events since I can remember,” he says. “The raw talent, energy, passion, connection to audiences, sound and brilliant compositions – everything comes together in one special place. So I hope, when I publish my pictures, people could see it through my lens, and say ‘Gosh, I wish I was there!’”
Robert first picked up a camera for a local magazine as a teenager, long before the digital age made things easier. That early work opened doors to radio, where he spent years interviewing musicians, a pursuit that still fuels his passion today. “Being a guitarist myself, I know how it feels to transfer your vision from the first few notes, chords onto the live stage and recordings,” he says.
Now based in Exeter, Robert blends his radio work for Phonic FM with photographing live events across Devon and Cornwall. “I love talking to artists before and after a gig, doing quick interviews for my shows. There are so many great bands, musicians and venues in the South West – events like the New Band Showcases at Exeter Phoenix are the best way to know them and follow their progress.”
He’s got plenty of favourites, but this year’s standout was seeing The Corrs light up Plymouth Hoe, torrential rain and a, with Natalie Imbruglia in support. “I’ve seen them a few times already, and they never disappoint,” he says with a grin. “They simply don’t age, like their music. And of course, local boys MUSE, in any shape or form!”
Ask which artist he wishes he’d shot and he’ll tell you straight: “Heroes del Silencio. Spanish rock legends. They broke up in ’96 but did a 20th anniversary tour in 2007. I had a photo pass, but my flight got cancelled. I don’t think it’ll be third time lucky on that one…”
Before making Exeter home, Robert worked with leading media outlets in Poland and later across the UK, photographing everything from opera and theatre to sports and major news events. But it’s the live energy of musicians that continues to pull him in, the shared yet unspoken spark between performer and crowd that never quite fades.
Robert’s photographs speak with the warmth and honesty of someone who’s been on both sides of the stage. You can see the respect in every frame. Not just for the music, but for the people and the craft. We’re proud to have him as part of the Involving Music crew.
