Music legends are in the spotlight for St Helens photographer

This week, Alex Cropper shares some of his favourite photographs.

Alex, who is 34 and lives near Sherdley Park, first took up photography during the pandemic and he enjoys capturing live music performances, having seen Sir Paul McCartney on stage with Bruce Springsteen at Glastonbury last year.

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Alex Cropper

When and why did you take up photography?

I first took up photography during the Covid-19 pandemic to express myself and engage in something more artistic. I had always been a fan of photography but never had the time to pursue it due to my other passions taking up most of my energy and time. However, during the pandemic when I had more time on my hands, I decided to delve into photography. I studied the basics, sought inspiration and support from fellow photographers on Instagram, and used photography to get out of the house and explore familiar surroundings from a new perspective. Additionally, as a passionate live music enthusiast, I discovered the thrill of capturing the energy and essence of live performances through my camera lens. It allowed me to combine my love for music with my newfound passion for photography, freezing those dynamic moments on stage and conveying the raw emotions of the artists.

Sunset at Taylor Park

Where is your favourite place to take pictures and why?

My favourite place to take photos is Liverpool city centre and Manchester city centre not only for their diverse architecture, people and changing scenery but also because they offer vibrant music scenes. Being able to capture the atmosphere of live concerts in these cities adds an extra layer of excitement to my photography. It presents a unique opportunity to freeze those moments of intense energy and connection between the artists and their audience.

St Helens roundabout

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Richard Ashcroft

What is your favourite subject matter and why?

While I enjoy photographing various subjects, my absolute favourite is capturing live music performances. The stage becomes my canvas and the musicians are my subjects. It is a thrilling and challenging endeavour to freeze those moments of energy and connection between the artists and their audience. The combination of music and photography allows me to convey the passion and spirit of the performance, creating powerful visual narratives that hopefully resonate with people.

Sunset at Taylor Park

What do you enjoy about being part of our Camera Club on Facebook?

Being part of the Camera Club on Facebook provides an incredible platform to connect with fellow photographers who share my passion for capturing live music and other aspects of life through the lens. It offers a supportive community where I can exchange ideas, techniques and inspiration with like-minded individuals. Engaging with other members who understand the intricacies of photographing live performances and personal moments allows me to grow as a photographer and continuously improve my skills.

Sefton Park, Liverpool

If you could photograph anyone/any place/anything, who/what would it be?

While I already have had the opportunity to photograph some of my all-time favourite artists, there is one subject that holds a special place— I know it’s probably a very predictable answer but I’m a sucker for taking pictures of my girlfriend. I love capturing candid moments with her, documenting our adventures and preserving them. I love to travel to interesting places together and capture our experiences through my lens.

New Brighton lighthouse