We recently connected with Reema Shah and have shared our conversation below.

Reema, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to go back in time and hear the story of how you came up with the name of your brand?

The story behind the name of my brand is deeply rooted in my passion for music, particularly rock, and a personal connection to one of my favorite bands, Royal Blood.

Royal Blood’s music has always held a special place in my heart, and their song “Out of the Black” resonated with me on a profound level. The energy of the track spoke to my own creative spirit and fueled my inspiration as a photographer.

Moreover, the color black has always held a strong aesthetic appeal for me, representing both elegance and edge. It’s a hue that embodies the essence of rock and roll—bold, timeless, and evocative.

Combining these elements, I found the perfect synergy between my musical influences and my artistic vision. Thus, “Out of the Black Photography” was born. The name not only pays homage to Royal Blood and their impactful music but also reflects the bold and distinctive style that I aim to capture in my photography.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My journey into photography began with a passion that started in high school but truly flourished after college. When I moved back home, I started going to concerts, sometimes 4-5 a week. Immersing myself in the music scene, I stumbled upon the world of concert photography. Witnessing photographers in action made me realize that this was something I could pursue. Taking my camera, I began photographing shows in small venues, gradually building my portfolio.

However, it wasn’t until a chance connection, facilitated by my brother, that I secured my first official photo pass for big names like the Struts and Story of the Year. This breakthrough bolstered my portfolio and opened doors to more opportunities. I leveraged these experiences to expand my reach, gradually earning trust and recognition within the local industry.

I began collaborating with local radio stations and venues, eventually becoming their primary photographer. This role provided me with a diverse range of experiences, from intimate gigs to larger events, further developing my skills and expanding my network within the St. Louis music scene.

My journey into concert photography is one marked with many intricate turns. As I came to find out later, there is no one way for someone to enter this industry. Honing your craft and mixing a little bit of luck can go a long way. What sets me apart is not just my ability to capture stunning visuals but also my connection to the music community. My journey from a passionate concertgoer to a respected photographer has given me a perspective and understanding of what truly resonates with both artists and fans alike.

Ultimately, what drives me is the opportunity to blend my passion for photography with my love for music, creating visual experiences that resonate with audiences on another level.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative, particularly in photography, is the tangible impact your work has on both artists and followers. Witnessing the reactions of artists and their fans when they engage with your photos on social media is incredibly gratifying.

When artists respond positively to your work, whether it’s through likes, reposts, or shares, it validates your skill and vision as a photographer. It’s a confirmation that your ability to capture their essence and convey their artistry has resonated with them on a deep level. This kind of recognition not only boosts your confidence but also strengthens the connection between you and the artists you admire.

Moreover, seeing followers react enthusiastically to your photos adds another layer of fulfillment. Knowing that your images have elicited emotions or inspired others is immensely rewarding. It reinforces the power of visual storytelling and underscores the impact that your creative expression can have on a broader audience.

In essence, the most rewarding aspect of being a creative is the ability to evoke genuine reactions and forge meaningful connections through your art. Whether it’s capturing the essence of a live performance or conveying a compelling narrative through your photos, the joy lies in knowing that your creativity has touched the hearts and minds of others.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

My journey into concert photography was filled with rejections and setbacks. Despite my passion and determination, I faced countless rejections when requesting to photograph shows. It was disheartening to receive rejection after rejection, but I refused to let it deter me from pursuing my dream. Instead, I persisted, continuously submitting requests and expanding my craft with each opportunity that came my way.

After what felt like an eternity of setbacks, I finally received my big break, my first official photo pass. This breakthrough was a significant milestone, but it didn’t immediately translate into consistent approvals for future shows. Even after securing that initial opportunity, I continued to face challenges in gaining traction within the industry. However, I refused to be discouraged. Instead, I focused on building relationships within the concert community. I made a concerted effort to connect with publicists, tour managers, lighting directors, security and venue staff, and many others, showcasing my dedication and professionalism at every opportunity.

Slowly but surely, my persistence began to pay off. I started to receive additional show approvals here and there, gradually building momentum and establishing myself as a reliable and talented photographer within the community.

This experience taught me the importance of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. It reinforced the notion that success often requires not just talent, but also grit and determination. By refusing to give up, I was able to turn rejection into opportunity and carve out a path for myself in the competitive world of concert photography.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://outoftheblackphotography.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outoftheblackphotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OutoftheBlackPhotography
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/OotBPhotography

Image Credits
All photos by Reema Shah/Out of the Black Photography