Ego risers, dominating the monitors, and unbridled intensity; these characteristics are some of the things that fans all over the world have come to expect from post-hardcore rockers Story of the Year. At their album release party for The Constant, the hometown boys delivered in force to a sold-out crowd and under explosive lights.
Photographer's Notes:
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Having photographed Story of the Year in 2009, I knew that this was a show not to be missed, and these guys certainly did not disappoint. Since I'd used flash at the last show, I was interested in taking a different approach with this show and set: the novel approach of shooting with just stage lighting.
With a band that moves around as much as Story of the Year, shooting no flash can be a bear of a challenge. They're a band that is constantly on the move, playing a sort of musical chairs with the parapet of monitors set up at the edge of the stage. At any one time, it seems like there are at least one of the band member on rotation with a foot up on the wedges or ego risers, rocking out full-tilt for their fans.
Due to the setup, which basically barricaded the front of the stage with monitors or risers, the already five-and-a-half foot stage was raised even higher, so these epic stances were not only appreciated, but essential for photography.
Still – in spite of these challenges and also because of them, this was a fantastic show to photograph. Definitely check out Story of the Year if they're touring near you – your camera won't be disappointed.
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