"For years the CMA has offered our students opportunities covering the Country Music Festival and the CMA Awards. As they paused during COVID it became clear how important real-life concert and event photography experience is for our students. Pam Hothorn, Senior Manager, Creative Content Production, and Drew Noble, Creative Content Coordinator, treat our students as professionals and expect them to handle their responsibilities. We can't teach that in the classroom and it's invaluable." - Tom Stanford, Nossi College of Art & Design Photography Program Director
Extremely proud to announce that three Nossi Photography students have been selected to complete an internship at the CMA Fest this season: Divina Fernando-Eblen, Peyton Bredemeier, and Aziza Clemons. Check out the concert focused photography work from all three students below.
Q: What are you most excited about shooting this event?
Aziza: I’m most excited about broadening my career and attending the festival.
Q: What have you learned from shooting similar sized events previously; what will you focus on differently this time?
Aziza: I’ve learned to take my time and relax. Have fun but also get the job done.
Q: Any advice for those interested in shooting concerts and music?
Aziza: My advice is to get a good lens and shoot as much as possible. Get photo passes for everything you can. Keep practicing and getting better. You got this!
Q: What are you most excited about shooting this event?
Peyton: I'm most excited about capturing the energy of the performances and the genuine moments shared by the artists and fans during CMA Fest. It’s also going to be so exciting to photograph some of my favorite musicians. It's going to be an incredible experience behind the lens!
Q: What have you learned from shooting similar sized events previously; what will you focus on differently this time?
Peyton: While I haven't had the opportunity to shoot a large event like CMA Fest before, I have learned the importance of preparation and adaptability from my previous photography experiences. This time, I'll focus on capturing the unique atmosphere and spontaneous moments that make the event special, ensuring I convey the excitement and energy of the festival through my photos.
Q: Any advice for those interested in shooting concerts and music?
Peyton: Be confident and assertive in promoting yourself. Never hesitate to ask for opportunities to take photos or request a photo pass. The worst that can happen is they say 'No,' but there's always a chance they'll say 'Yes.' Taking the initiative can open doors you never expected.
Divina: I'm most excited to be capturing the fans and people attending the event as well experiencing the overall atmosphere! I've always enjoyed live events, especially concerts and live music. It gives you that certain adrenaline rush that lingers with you for days, maybe even weeks. CMA Fest is one of the biggest music fests out there and I'm looking forward to being a part of it.
Divina: That I tend to overshoot WAY too much and with an event that thrives on efficiency, I'm going to have to change the way I normally photograph shows to provide the most efficient workflow for the amazing team of photo editors.
Divina: Don't limit yourself! The music industry has so much to offer. I have found close friends and shot the best shows of my life in strange places and with genres I don't typically listen to. Be kind to everyone you meet and talk to people! I've personally always struggled with socializing but believe me, you'll miss your strongest connections if you hide in the corner the whole time.This is also a super cliché tip: remember to have fun and enjoy being in the moment! It's easy to get super zoned in with your work and forget where you are. Live music is supposed to be fun! Sing along or dance a bit while you're shooting a show! The fans like to know they're not the only ones who love their favorite artists and who knows, you might just meet someone who can become your strongest connection!
CMA Fest this year is held in Nashville, TN June 6th - June 9th. THANK YOU to CMA Fest to welcoming our students!