Photo by Jason Beaver
I came across Paris’ photos through New Found Glory’s Instagram and was blown away. She captures the spirit of every show, featuring the never-runs-out energy of the band (seriously, guys – they’re on their 20 year tour!) and hyped-up fans. As a fellow lady photographer, I was thrilled to catch up with Paris and ask about her experience on the road with NFG and the other bands she’s worked with.
Connect with Paris
Website: parisvisone.com
Facebook: facebook.com/parisvisonephotography
Instagram: @parisvisone
Twitter: @parisvisone
S&S: As a fellow photographer, I have to start out with some “Tog Life” questions! How and when did you become a photographer? Did you go to school for it?
Paris: When I was 11, I was watching Entertainment Tonight with my mom. They were shooting “A Day in the Life with Hanson.” During that day, they were doing a photoshoot and having so much fun. That’s when I decided I needed to become a photographer. So, I can hang out with Hanson.
S&S: What gear do you use for shows?
Paris: I have 2 Canon 6D’s. One with a 24mm and the other with a 70-300mm. I also shoot with a 360fly.
S&S: What’s your process like after a show? What equipment/software do you use for editing, and how quickly do you turn around photos? I’d imagine you’re working as you’re rolling to the next town!
Paris: I dump photos immediately after the show and start going through to make my selects. Right now, I’m on tour with New Found Glory, and the bass player Ian Grushka insists on posting a photo right after the show. Even though I told him 100 times, 1:00am is not the best time to post. He will not listen to me. Love you, Ian.
S&S: As a photographer, I’m my own worst critic. Can you relate? If so, how do you combat feelings of not being “good enough” (even though you clearly are)? How do you avoid the comparison trap if you look at your peers’ work?
Paris: There are so many other great photographers. To think you “aren’t as good” is just self defeating for no reason. I see photographers as artists, and you can’t really compare one person’s interpretation to another. If you are not getting what you want, just keep shooting. You will get there.
S&S: On a similar note, but flipped – Are there any photographers you admire? What do you find in other photographers’ work that inspires you?
Paris: Honestly, I am the worst at remembering names. I try and follow every concert photographer I come across on Instagram. I see a lot of great work, and I give out likes like it’s my job.
S&S: What bands have you worked with on the road?
Paris: From the beginning till now: Protagonist, Blondie, Toto, Godsmack, Limp Bizkit, Marilyn Manson, New Found Glory.
S&S: How did you get hooked up with New Found Glory for their 20 Year Tour?
Paris: I grew up in Florida and have always liked New Found. It’s kind of a long story with a lot of twists and turns. But I guess the main reason was being out with Protagonist for the Florida Vacation Tour where they were opening for NFG. They asked me to do Warped Tour with them, and the rest is history.
S&S: How do you keep a fresh perspective while shooting the same show every night?
Paris: The great thing about this tour is that they are playing 76 different songs. So, it’s really cool. I like to plan out my show. I take the setlist and schedule where I am going to be for each part of the set. Knowing the songs definitely helps with that. I also go to every possible place in the venue to shoot – barricade, balcony, side stage, behind the drums and cabs, the pit. So, it doesn’t really ever get boring.
S&S: What are some of your favorite or funniest stories from the road?
Paris: Honestly, there are too many to think of. On the surface, farts. They will always be funny. And there is never a shortage of them.
S&S: Many people (myself included, actually) glamorize touring in our minds. What are some of the less glamorous things you have to deal with?
Paris: Probably just shower and bathroom situations. I’m not a complainer, so it’s fine for me. I should try to work out a dry shampoo deal though haha.
S&S: I’m sure being in close quarters with the same people for weeks on end can be both amazing and challenging. Have you formed any special relationships with band members or tour mates? On the flip side, how do you deal with cranky moments?
Paris: Honestly, I love everyone. It’s cool because everyone is so individual, so whatever you feel like doing that day, you can just choose who to hang out with haha. As for cranky times, I like to see myself as the person who smooths over those moments. I always feel grateful to be where I am, so I like to keep that going and help people out when they may be a little frustrated or tense. It’s super rare that I get actually mad at something, so it’s just something I naturally do.
S&S: How do you like to spend downtime?
Paris: It’s different on every tour. With Godsmack, I would workout with Sully nonstop. It was the worst haha. But also, he’s great, and I was in shape so that was awesome. With New Found, we go to the movies, play board games, go to the mall. Either way, it’s always fun. But I’m also always in work mode and have my camera on me. I enjoy working, so it’s always a good time.
S&S: What are some life lessons you’ve learned on the road?
Paris: Sometimes, I have these moments where my life feels surreal. If anything, those times just made me just appreciate everything more. You have to be happy with what you are doing, and if you’re not, find a way to change it.
S&S: What do you do when you’re not on the road? Do you have another job at home?
Paris: I shoot music videos, do freelance photography work, and do social media consulting for bands. Right now, I’m working on a book of personal work.
S&S: What tours do you have coming up?
Paris: I will be with New Found Glory for the rest of the year which I’m really excited about.
S&S: What advice would you give to someone interested in becoming a tour photographer?
Paris: Work hard and be nice. The music industry can be a weird one. But I believe that people who are good at their jobs and are fun to be around will always succeed.
Tour Life is a new Stars and Scars featured section where we interview the “behind the scenes” rock stars on tour with bands – managers, security, instrument technicians, drivers, photographers, videographers, light and sound technicians, merchandisers, etc. Know someone who would be a great fit for Tour Life? Email elyse@starsandscars.com
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