Christopher Durst

Rich Redmond Drummer Extraordinaire

2011-10-16T16:37:00.003-05:00

I had the pleasure of meeting Rich Redmond through a mutual friend (DJ Silver) in March of 2011 while in Las Vegas for the Academy of Country Music Awards. The night before the ACM’s, Silver and Rich played a set together in a collaboration they’ve coined ‘Country Groove’. I was blown away by Rich’s technique and showmanship, dude’s got chops.

A few months later I caught up with Rich Redmond and DJ Silver while on tour with Jason Aldean. Prior to one of the show we decided to set up a photoshoot, capturing the first images of ‘Country Groove’. This is one of the images that I shot that dat. I’ve always enjoyed creating band portraits, especially when they’re spontaneously coordinated behind the scenes of a big tour.

Nashville Band Portraits, Portraiture and Photos

Behind the Scenes with Disturbed

2011-10-16T13:36:00.003-05:00

"The Animal" Video Shoot

Recently, I documented the behind the scenes of the Disturbed music video ‘The Animal’. It was an incredible video shoot. The set boasted a medley of real life animal parts, a plethora of blood, snakes, white wolves, and a creepy serial killer like wooded setting to round things off...truly a great production.

The band and crew were all in good spirits making for a comfortable and relaxed set. It was slightly cold with temperatures in the low 50’s but it really didn’t seem to slow production, if anything, it added to the overall spooky vibe of the set.

Daddy Van Productions, the masterminds behind the shoot, were truly a first class operation with refreshingly original, artistic ideas; they showed immense commitment and dedication to their art. I highly recommend their services. I look forward to working with them in the near future.

Here is one of the photos I took while documenting the set. To see more of my work please visit my music photography website.

Band Portraits and Press Shots

2011-10-13T21:25:00.005-05:00

Band Portraits and Press Shots

Professional band portraiture and press shots are essential tools in developing a successful marketing campaign. Having professional, well balanced images that accurately represent you as an artist can mean the difference between empty seat and sold-out shows. Everyone has a cousin that knows a friend who just bought a camera, but is this how you want to be represented?

There are endless reasons why artists need professional band portraits and press shots including website use, social media, press kits, insert art, album covers, posters, banners, flyers and editorial use. The way your audience perceives you is crucial to your overall success and longevity. Remember the old adage, ‘A picture is worth a thousand words’!

I can’t tell you how many times throughout my career I’ve seen artists promote themselves with images that someone’s grandmother most likely took with a borrowed digital camera. Just like a well mastered single, you need professional imagery to promote and advance your career.

Of course, there is a nominal monetary difference between free band photos and hiring a professional music photographer. That being said, here’s another adage, ‘You get what you pay for’. You do not need to hire the most expensive photographer in the industry; you just need to hire someone with experience and expertise. Remember, hiring the right music photographer is essential.

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding band portraiture and/or press shots, please feel free to contact me directly via my website at www.christopherdurst.com.

Jane's Addiction Band Photos

2011-10-13T17:19:00.005-05:00

Los Angeles Band Photographer: Jane’s Addiction Photos

In the 90’s I would drop everything I was doing to photograph a Jane’s show. Watching the guys work a stage was (and still is) exhilarating to say the least. Their rock star swagger, dangerous looks and unbelievable talent made every Los Angeles band photographer spastic and aggressive in the pits, I loved it!

After 10 years of relative silence, Jane’s Addiction is once again touring the world and proving why they are one of the world’s biggest and most successful bands in music history. I can’t say enough great things about them, they’re all kind, gracious and extremely approachable. It’s amazing to witness the comradery and solidarity they have with their fans.

Here are some of the photos that I took while on tour in mid 2011. These images have quickly become some of my most cherished pieces of work.

To see more band photos from this series please visit my Fan Page or my website at www.christopherdurst.com.

Los Angeles Band Photography, Photographer and Photos

Band Photographer, Photography and Photos

2011-10-13T15:03:00.010-05:00

Band Photography: The Short Story
I’ve loved music for as long as I can remember. Growing up, my house resonated with the sounds and images of artists like Willie Nelson, Grateful Dead, Grace Slick, The Stones, Zeppelin, and The Beatles just to name a few. From an early age, I learned everything I possibly could about the music industry; I was so fascinated with the lifestyle, the music, and even more so, the imagery. Some of the early band photos are just classic.

Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work in and experience many facets of the music industry. I’ve done everything from artist management to concert promotions and beyond. However, one field of the industry has always captured and retained my attention...music photography. I would spend hours researching the work of the industry’s most iconic music photographers such as Jim Marshall, Robert Knight, Mick Rock and so on. THESE were my idols! I use to dream about becoming a Los Angeles band photographer, but at the time it seemed like such an unattainable goal.

Many years later, I would have the pleasure of working with a truly beautiful, gentle and talented soul, who is no longer with us. My friend would poke, push and prod me to pursue a career as a band photographer. Honestly, at the time I thought he was crazy! I couldn’t tell if he was trying to get rid of me or genuinely being supportive of, what he thought, was my true calling. Little did I know at the time, my friend’s encouragement and support would soon become a reality, a very bittersweet moment in my life.

Becoming a music photographer was absolutely the best thing that could have happened to me. It has turned childhood fantasies and classroom daydreams into surreal realities. Having the opportunity to work with musicians that I idolized as a youth has given me purpose and meaning in life. It’s given me the ability to express myself in such an artistic and therapeutic manner.

Today, as I watch the fruits of my labor come to fruition, I can’t help but to look back and wonder how, how the path of life guided me to such an incredible career of art, music and travel. Yes, I worked my ass off for it, but it also took a ot of luck and perfect star alignment! Being in the right place at the right time has always been a key factor in my career. If you want it, go get it...

Thanks so much for taking the time to read my blog. Most of the subjects that I discuss are inquiries from fans. If you have any questions or topics you would like me to blog about, feel free to contact me via my website at www.christopherdurst.com. Though I haven’t had a lot of time to sit and reflect recently, I promise to start being a better blogger.

Band Photography, Photographer and Photos - Austin, Nashville, Los Angeles & New York

New York Music Photography

2011-10-13T12:54:00.002-05:00

New York, NY - Music Photographer, Photography and Photos

PRESS RELEASE:
Christopher Durst is currently finalizing details for his U.S. photography tour scheduled to begin in November 2011 with dates extending through February 2012. New York, NY has now been confirmed as a destination on the tour. Please read below for additional information...

Christopher is an internationally published music photographer that specializes in live performance photography, tour & set documentary, event coverage and high-impact media imagery. His unique and distinctive style has afforded him the opportunity to photograph some of the industry’s most recognized names including Willie Nelson, Jason Aldean, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Jane’s Addiction and Social Distortion.

Session Details:
9am-1pm / 2pm-6pm
4 Hours Total
Up to 2 Site Locations
Up to 6 Looks
Imagery Type (color / b&w)
Optional Licensing (6, 12, 18 & 24)
Package Costing ($1500, $2500, $3500 & $5500)
Multiple Session Incentives
8 Total Sessions Per City

Available Services:
Hair & Make up
Wardrobe Stylist
Location Management
Production Management
Video Documentation

Scheduling:
For additional information or to schedule a shoot, please contact Christopher Durst directly at 512-626-3549 or via his website at www.christopherdurst.com.

New York, NY - Music Photography, Photographer and Photos

Los Angeles Music Photography

2011-10-13T11:28:00.003-05:00

Los Angeles - Music Photographer, Photography and Photos

PRESS RELEASE:
Christopher Durst is currently finalizing details for his U.S. photography tour scheduled to begin in November 2011 with dates extending through February 2012. Los Angeles, California has now been confirmed as a destination on the tour. Please read below for additional information...

Christopher is an internationally published music photographer that specializes in live performance photography, tour & set documentary, event coverage and high-impact media imagery. His unique and distinctive style has afforded him the opportunity to photograph some of the industry’s most recognized names including Willie Nelson, Jason Aldean, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Jane’s Addiction and Social Distortion.

Session Details:
9am-1pm / 2pm-6pm
4 Hours Total
Up to 2 Site Locations
Up to 6 Looks
Imagery Type (color / b&w)
Optional Licensing (6, 12, 18 & 24)
Package Costing ($1500, $2500, $3500 & $5500)
Multiple Session Incentives
8 Total Sessions Per City

Available Services:
Hair & Make up
Wardrobe Stylist
Location Management
Production Management
Video Documentation

Scheduling:
For additional information or to schedule a shoot, please contact Christopher Durst directly at 512-626-3549 or via his website at www.christopherdurst.com.

Los Angeles, CA - Music Photography, Photographer and Photos

Austin Music Photography

2011-10-13T00:49:00.003-05:00

Austin, TX - Music Photographer, Photography and Photos

PRESS RELEASE:
Christopher Durst is currently finalizing details for his U.S. photography tour scheduled to begin in November 2011 with dates extending through February 2012. Austin, Texas has now been confirmed as a destination on the tour. Please read below for additional information...

Christopher is an internationally published music photographer that specializes in live performance photography, tour & set documentary, event coverage and high-impact media imagery. His unique and distinctive style has afforded him the opportunity to photograph some of the industry’s most recognized names including Willie Nelson, Jason Aldean, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Jane’s Addiction and Incubus.

Session Details:
9am-1pm / 2pm-6pm
4 Hours Total
Up to 2 Site Locations
Up to 6 Looks
Imagery Type (color / b&w)
Optional Licensing (6, 12, 18 & 24)
Package Costing ($1500, $2500, $3500 & $5500)
Multiple Session Incentives
8 Total Sessions Per City

Available Services:
Hair & Make up
Wardrobe Stylist
Location Management
Production Management
Video Documentation

Scheduling:
For additional information or to schedule a shoot, please contact Christopher Durst directly at 512-626-3549 or via his website at www.christopherdurst.com.

Austin, TX - Music Photography, Photographer and Photos

Nashville Music Photography

2011-10-12T23:03:00.005-05:00

Nashville, TN - Music Photographer, Photography and Photos

PRESS RELEASE:
Christopher Durst is currently finalizing details for his U.S. photography tour scheduled to begin in November 2011 with dates extending through February 2012. Nashville, Tennessee has now been confirmed as a destination on the tour. Please read below for additional information...

Christopher is an internationally published music photographer that specializes in live performance photography, tour & set documentary, event coverage and high-impact media imagery. His unique and distinctive style has afforded him the opportunity to photograph some of the industry’s most recognized names including Willie Nelson, Jason Aldean, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Jane’s Addiction and Social Distortion.

Session Details:
9am-1pm / 2pm-6pm
4 Hours Total
Up to 2 Site Locations
Up to 6 Looks
Imagery Type (color / b&w)
Optional Licensing (6, 12, 18 & 24)
Package Costing ($1500, $2500, $3500 & $5500)
Multiple Session Incentives
8 Total Sessions Per City

Available Services:
Hair & Make up
Wardrobe Stylist
Location Management
Production Management
Video Documentation

Scheduling:
For additional information or to schedule a shoot, please contact Christopher Durst directly at 512-626-3549 or via his website at www.christopherdurst.com.

Nashville, TN - Music Photography, Photographer and Photos

Win a Limited Edition Print of Willie Nelson – ($1275.00 Value)

2011-02-27T21:39:00.002-06:00

Entry to this contest is very simple. All you have to do is leave a comment on this post between 20-50 words explaining why you are Willie Nelson’s biggest fan. That’s it!

No purchase neccessary. Each person is limited to one comment per day. Comments must be unique. Non-unique duplicate comments will not be considered. Contest will run until 11:59pm on Wednesday, March 9th, 2011. You do NOT have to live in the United States to be eligible.

Winner of this Limited Edition Signature Series print will be selected by, at his sole discretion, music photographer Christopher Durst, creator of this Willie Nelson image.

This Limited Edition Signature Series Print Retails for $1275.00.
Print Dimensions are 24inches by 36inches (24H”x36W”).
Printed on High Quality Fuji Photographic Paper in a Matte Finish.
Only 100 Prints Available Worldwide.
Print Displays Edition & Print Number.
Print Hand Signed by Christopher Durst for Authenticity.
Frame Not Included.
No Warranties Made.
Print Comes As Is.
Not For Commercial Use.

Limited Edition Signature Series Image Below…

A Tribute to Jim Marshall

2011-02-27T13:13:00.002-06:00

Please take a moment to view this tribute. Jim Marshall was arguably the most celebrated music photographer that ever lived. He captured the true essence of music’s most iconic musicians including Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, The Doors, Elvis, The Rolling Stones, Willie Nelson, and so many more. My only hope is that I can leave behind a legacy as profound as Jim Marshall’s.

R.I.P. Jim Marshall…

A Tribute to Jim Marshall

The Music Photography of Christopher Durst

2011-02-27T12:06:00.001-06:00

Christopher Durst has been photographing musicians since before he could legally drink. He has had the opportunity to tour with some of the greatest and most recognized artists in the industry. His images have been widely applauded and recognized for their purity, raw emotion and timelessness. Throughout his career, Christopher has had unprecedented access to his musical idols allowing him the ability to gain their trust, respect and professional admiration.

After residing in California for more than 15 years, Christopher relocated back to Austin, Texas where he quickly developed a loyal fan base and client roster. Though based in Austin, Christopher continues to tour relentlessly documenting a variety of concert tours, music festivals and industry events.

Christopher specializes in live performance photography, tour & set documentary, event coverage, and high-impact media imagery for musicians & entertainers. To become better acquainted with Christopher’s work, please visit his website at Music Photography. For bookings & information please contact Christopher directly by calling 512-626-3549 or by email at chris@christopherdurst.com.

Bonnie & Clyde's Last Ride

2011-02-27T10:53:00.004-06:00

Christopher Durst just released one of his newest series pieces entitled ‘Bonnie & Clyde’s Last Ride’, a collection of black & white photographs featuring what is said to be one of the last known locations in which Bonnie & Clyde robbed and killed a storeowner just hours prior to being ambushed and killed themselves.

The site was originally designed as a gas station but later had a general store added which sold basic necessities, common goods, and jewelry as well. The location ceased operation after the incident and was never reopened. Captured in the photographs is the actual car belonging to the slain store owner which was never driven or removed from the location succeeding the crime and his death.

Old Photos of Texas

2011-02-27T10:17:00.002-06:00

Christopher Durst, a fine art photographer based in Austin, Texas, has just released his much anticipated ‘Texas Series’, a collection of old rustic images featuring cars, trains, horses, tractors, old buildings & houses, and much more. His unique way of capturing classic timeless imagery has made this series especially popular.

For nearly a year, Christopher has driven around the back country roads of Texas in an effort to capture the forgotten history of Texas. His efforts have resulted in one of the most unique black & white collections of old Texas photos. To see Christopher’s collection please visit his website at www.christopherdurst.com.

Signature Series Limited Edition prints are also available for this series and may be acquired by contacting Christopher Durst directly at 512-626-3549. Christopher’s signature Series prints come in a variety of large format sizes and are numbered and signed to preserve their authenticity and value.

Austin Music Photography

2011-02-27T09:53:00.000-06:00

Christopher Durst is an Austin music photographer that specializes in every aspect of music photography. His unique ability to capture raw emotion has made him a favorite with recording artists all over the world. Christopher has had the fortunate opportunity to photograph some of the biggest names in rock, country and alternative music including Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, David Allan Coe, Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Social Distortion, Dave Mathews Band, and many more.

If you are in need of professional media imagery please visit Christopher’s website at www.christopherdurst.com to view samples of his work. From album covers to live performance imagery, Christopher can manage every aspect of your music photography needs. For all bookings & information please contact 512-626-3549 or email chris@christopherdurst.com.

SXSW Music Photographer

2011-02-27T09:32:00.001-06:00

The SXSW Music Festival is going to be better than ever this year. Every major player in the industry will be hosting events at various Austin music venues. Over the last few weeks I have had multiple artists and record labels contact me to shoot promotional imagery of their shows. Interesting enough, we are only a few weeks out and the calls are just starting to come in.

If you are an industry professional in need of promotional imagery for your SXSW show, please contact me directly at 512-626-3549. I am a local Austin music photographer that specializes in live performance photography and event coverage for musicians and entertainers.

To view samples of my work please visit my website at www.christopherdurst.com.

Photography Lessons by Christopher Durst

2011-02-21T23:45:00.007-06:00

Austin photographer, Christopher Durst, is currently offering private photography lessons throughout the U.S. and Europe. If you are interested in scheduling a lesson please contact Christoher Durst directly by calling 512-626-3549 or by visiting his website at www.christopherdurst.com

Tour Dates & Schedule Availability
Please contact me privately at chris@christopherdurst.com.
($75 per hr / $350 per day)

LESSON STRUCTURE
- Cameras & Lenses
- Shutter Speed, Aperture & ISO
- Exposure & Metering
- The Digital Process
- Color Imagery
- Black & White Imagery
- Overall Lighting
- How to Take Better Photos
- Equipment & Software
- Retouching, Resolution & Printing
- Copyrights, Releases & Agreements
- Constructing Professional Portfolios

TEXAS
- Austin: (Feb 10th – Feb 18th)
- Dallas: (Feb 19th – Feb 20th)
- Austin: (Feb 21st – Feb 25th)
- Houston: (Feb 26th – Feb 27th)
- Austin: (Feb 28th – March 2nd)
- Austin: (March 16th – March 20th)

NEW YORK: (March 3rd – March 9th)
MIAMI: (March 10th – March 15th)

LONDON: (March 21st – March 24th)
AMSTERDAM: (March 25th – March 28th)
PARIS: (March 29th – April 1st)
MADRID: (April 2nd - April 5th)
ZURICH: (April 6th - April 10th)
MUNICH: (April 11th - April 14th)
ROME: (April 15th - April 18th)

CALIFORNIA
- San Diego: (May 3rd – May 6th)
- Los Angeles: (May 7th – May 10th)
- San Francisco: (May 11th – May 15th)

Photography Lessons by Christopher Durst

Luckenbach, Texas Photography

2011-02-19T16:47:00.002-06:00

How beautiful is Luckenbach, Texas?! I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I’ve been there (I’ve been going since I was around 2yrs old). There is definitely something special about this place. The people are always friendly, the scenery is always picturesque, the music is always playing, and most importantly the beer is ALWAYS COLD!

If you have never had an opportunity to make your way out there, now’s the time. If you DO venture out there, please make sure you tell Abbey that Christopher says HELLO! In all seriousness, Luckenbach is definitely worth any amount of travel, especially during the spring. So pack your bags and make your way out there, I promise you won’t regret it!

Here is a photo that I took recently while out there listening to some live music and having a cold beer. I have an entire collection of photos from Luckenbach, Texas; I’ll start posting them so everyone can have a gander. In the meantime, feel free to visit my website at www.christopherdurst.com to see them now, they are available in my ‘Texas Series’ portfolio.

Western Town (Luck, Texas) - Austin, TX

2011-02-19T15:51:00.001-06:00

I took this photograph last Easter just outside of Austin, Texas on Willie Nelson’s ranch. The old western town (Luck, Texas) was built on his property for a movie he was in, ‘Red Headed Stranger’. The town has a post office, bank, barn, jail, saloon, church, and of course, an opry house. Willie Nelson’s Famous Luck Headquarters is also located on his ranch. I hope you enjoy the photo.

To see more images from this series please visit my website at www.christopherdurst.com.

Austin Music Photographer

2011-02-19T12:17:00.005-06:00

This is by far one of my most cherished images from my Willie Nelson Collection. I shot this photo at Willie's 4th of July Picnic in 2010 at the Backyard in Austin, Texas. What a great day that was, the sun was shining, just enough cloud cover to keep you cool, and a plethora of diehard Willie Nelson fans loving, hugging, smiling and drinking...it was beautiful!

Please visit my website at www.christopherdurst.com to see more images from my Willie Nelson Series. For bookings & information please visit my contact page.

Austin Photographer

2011-02-19T12:00:00.007-06:00

Austin photographer, Christopher Durst, has just released his much anticipated ‘Austin Series’, a collection of images featuring iconic Austin landmarks. He has spent the last 9 months documenting the most visited structures and sites in Austin in an effort to assist in the overall marketing of this beautiful city. Pictured below is the Texas State Capitol Building.

Christopher is more widely known for his music photography but had gained acclaim and notoriety for his signature series pieces and fine art print work. Originally a Texas native, Christopher has spent the last 15 years of his life traveling domestically and abroad. He recently returned to Austin where he has quickly developed a clientele comprised of musicians, entertainers, creative entrepreneurs, and private art collectors.

To learn more about Christopher please visit his website at www.christopherdurst.com.