A decade of music photography – The Australian Jewish News

When photographer Mark Moray was approached by the late Archie Roach’s manager for the use of a photo he had taken, Moray was “honoured”. The photo in question ended up being used on the front cover of the program presented at Roach’s funeral as well as the back cover of the program used at the State Memorial that was held in Victoria.

The photographer, whose work includes photographing Byron Bay Bluesfest, The National Folk Festival, WOMADelaide and many others, said his interest in photography harks all the way back to his primary school days.

“I remember my grandfather gave me a brown box camera when I was in primary school in the late 60s,” he told The AJN. “Then when I studied at an Art & Design school in the late 70s, photography was one of my subjects. I bought a Minolta XG-1. I loved the processing of negatives and printing so much that I created a dark room in our family bungalow at the back of our house.”

Moray said he has always loved taking photos but his first real success came in 2015 when concert photos he had taken of The Rolling Stones appeared in Rhythms magazine. The accompanying article was written by Sam Cutler, the tour manager for the Stones in the 60s and The Grateful Dead.

Moray credits this moment for his future success, explaining that it made him pursue his passion for photography and combine it with his love of music.

Now, Moray is showcasing years’ worth of music photography at his upcoming exhibition A Decade in Music at the Odeon Richmond.

The exhibition will include a gallery of framed photos, a projection of photos on a wall, displays of Moray’s published work, lanyards and album covers, as well as interviews that he has conducted with artists for Culturemad Magazine.

For those interested in the music side of things, there will also be live music at the venue on various days.

When The AJN asked Moray for some helpful tips and tricks for those interested in making photography a profession, the photographer said it’s all about finding your passion.

“It could be birds, wildlife, nature, food, landscapes, weddings and bar/bat mitzvahs or even music. Then focus on the type of camera and lens you need for it,” he said. “And if photography becomes a real passion, join a camera club. You meet wonderful people with the same passion and you can learn more about the art.”

While Moray loves photographing the music industry heavyweights, at the moment, he is taking his time to concentrate on the smaller venues and pubs, documenting life with new and upcoming bands and artists. He said it’s exciting to see what these bands achieve.

“The energy is wild and you never know which band will make it,” he said.

Who knows, Moray could be photographing the new Mick Jagger.

A Decade in Music is at Odean Richmond from March 14-21. Book tickets. 

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