Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Desena.
Hi Amanda, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey with photography began roughly 4 years ago when I got the opportunity to shoot for one of my favorite bands, Sleeping with Sirens. I had always loved concerts and the art of photography in general, but it hadn’t occurred to me that I would be able to combine both and shoot for certain bands and venues. After my first shoot with Sleeping with Sirens, I became even more passionate about this career and knew that it was meant to be. Like any other profession, I experienced many struggles, but I was able to overcome them, and since then, I have been able to photograph artists such as: Lauren Sanderson, The Happy Return, and Rex Orange County.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Regardless of what your dream is, I believe that there is always going to be some sort of challenge or obstacle. Throughout my journey, I have experienced a variety of different challenges, the biggest one being the challenge of getting approved for a press pass. When trying to acquire a photo pass for a mainstream artist, it’s typically a more difficult process, in which you may not get a response. At times, it can be frustrating to send out countless emails and not receive any responses, but it’s important to focus on the responses that you do get. Another thing that has helped me with these struggles is to be associated with some type of publication. I have noticed that managers are more willing to assign photo passes as long as they know that the artist will also be getting some type of publicity.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
Throughout the last 4 years of my life, I have been a photographer, primarily in the music industry. I believe that this in itself sets me apart from others. When most people think of photography, the first thought is typically some sort of professional portrait for a wedding or other major life events. However, there is a whole other side to photography. Photographing concerts can be tricky as far as lighting and movement goes, but it’s personally one of my favorites because there’s a variety of ways to get creative with it. Not only this, but I think it’s fascinating how the pictures you get can’t ever be replicated due to factors like lighting, angles, and the movement from the artists. So far, one of my proudest moments has been acquiring a photo pass for Rex Orange County. I am incredibly grateful to have had this opportunity because it allowed me to network with other photographers, and it also allowed me to practice working with an artist who had a large setup.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Regardless of what you wish to do in life, it’s important that you continue to push through the struggles. At the end of the day, society will always have an opinion, but ultimately, it’s your life, and you should continue to do whatever it is that makes you happy.
Pricing:
- available for a variety of events such as: quinceaneras, sweet 16s, weddings, prom, graduation, concerts, etc
- currently charging $40 for concerts, but price may vary
Contact Info:
- Website: amandadesena.com
- Instagram: amandaxdesena
