We recently connected with Alyssa Story and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Alyssa, thanks for joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on is photographing my husband Luke Story’s projects. He’s a member of Float Like a Buffalo, a high energy 6-piece funk rock band out of Denver. I’ve been blessed to capture hundreds of their shows from their intimate bar gigs to large festival stages. Additionally, I also capture Luke’s solo performances under the name Loop Story, where he loops saxophone, keys, vocals, and beatboxing. During the most memorable show of my career, Luke proposed to me during his first headlining set at Your Mom’s House. All of our friends and family where there; it’s a night I’ll never forget, especially because I captured my own engagement on my camera. Alongside his solo endeavors, I’ve had the opportunity to photograph various saxophone sit-ins, from collaborations with bands like Moontricks and Eminence Ensemble to solo artists such as BKellz and Butl3r. Despite our hectic schedules, the chance to collaborate on these shows is a cherished and rewarding experience for us both.

Alyssa, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

For those who I haven’t met on the dancefloor, I’m Alyssa Story. My maiden name, Montaño, inspired my business name Rocky Montaño Photography. I am a Denver-based concert photographer who aims to support musicians starting with our first conversation and continuing after the set.

Supporting musicians is at the core of what I do, mostly because my husband and best friend are deeply ingrained in the music scene. My husband is a multi-project musician, and my best friend, Sarah Shuel, owns Sonder Music Management, where she also manages Float Like a Buffalo. Being close to them keeps me constantly attuned to the needs of artists, and I make it my mission to meet those needs every step of the way.

I take pride in working with musicians of all genres and sizes and capturing sets of all types. From new acts playing their first shows to local favorites, national tours, iconic venues like Red Rocks, and intimate backyard sets, I’m there to capture it all. Every moment matters, and I want prospective clients to know they’ll have my full support throughout the entire process.

You’ll find me actively engaged on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, sharing photos and promoting the bands I work with. My rates are designed to be accessible and flexible because I believe every musician deserves professional photos of their performances. Whether you need me to capture an entire evening of sets, including those candid moments between acts, or prefer a mini package focused on a shorter performance, I’m here to accommodate.

Another thing I take great pride in is my creative approach to editing. I strive to stand out with unique filters, angles, and editing styles, ensuring that every photo tells its own story.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

I was born a Type A, perfectionist, high-achieving Virgo. For the first 30 years of my life, I functioned under the belief that everything was black and white, right or wrong. My perspective was drastically shifted for the better when I started working in a creative field. As a teacher, there’s a clear right or wrong answer. For most education, tutoring, and babysitting jobs I held over the years, the job is clear-cut. The hours, tasks, and projects have clear outlines, directions, and deadlines. However, concert photography is completely opposite. I control which bands, shows, and venues I work in. I have full creative control over what moments I capture, how I capture them, and how I edit them. I get to decide what I post on social media and which festivals I travel to. Since making this pivot, I have truly found a new happiness. When I’m not worried about making it perfect, my best work is done. I get to slow down, observe the musicians, watch the crowd, and really feel the vibe of the show. I love this newfound creative side of my life that didn’t really exist prior to 30 years old. It’s been life-changing for my mental health.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

The primary sources of new clients for me are word of mouth and social media. Around half of my clients come through recommendations from friends whose bands I’ve photographed, which is a huge compliment and testament to my work. I also connect with potential clients at shows, arriving early to interact with other bands. On social media, I maintain an active presence, posting frequently and engaging with the Denver Music Scene community. The other half of my clients usually find me through Instagram or Facebook, either through algorithms or by seeing my work on a friend’s page. One of my absolute favorite messages to get is “I saw your photos for _______’s set. We’d love to book you!”

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockymontanophotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rockymontanophotography/

Image Credits
Alyssa Story of Rocky Montaño Photography