Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Amanda Daubert. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Amanda, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s jump right into how you came up with the idea?

The idea for Front Rail Photography was a combination of my love for live music and photography, plus a huge boost of support from my husband and daughter. I have always loved going to concerts, and like so many, I enjoyed taking photos from my favorite spot – the front rail. After borrowing a friends professional camera to test out at shows, and then investing in one myself, Front Rail Photography was originally just a name/place for me to share my photos. However, as my love for this amazing art grew, and I continued to practice and develop my skills, this passion project quickly became a business, and much to my surprise, it grew into something I never could have dreamed of.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Growing up, music was a huge part of my life. So many of my core memories have an amazing soundtrack in the background, whether it be from the stereo in my childhood apartment, the headphones of my walkman, blaring from my boombox, or emanating from my car speakers, there was always music. As I got older the music from the radio, cassettes and CDs were brought to life at live shows. Next came my love of photography, which started in high school. Those two loves eventually found themselves, mixing together, capturing the moments where I am the happiest – standing at the front rail of a concert.

Never would I have dreamed that these two loves have turned into an incredible business that has given me so many amazing opportunities, allowed me to meet tons of incredible people, and provided me the chance to share my love and passion for music and photography with the world.

As a concert and live events photographer I have the opportunity to capture core memories for fans and cherished moments for performers – art capturing art. I think one thing that sets me apart is that I recognize this responsibility and honor, and I truly love what I do. You will never see me happier than the photo pit of a concert, camera in hand, singing along, laughing with fans, and living out my dream.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Building a business, and a strong reputation from scratch, can be difficult. The one thing that helped me the most was networking – both in person and online. I am not shy, and I am not afraid to put myself out there. When on-location I always try to introduce myself, whether it be to the venue workers, management staff, artists/tour manager, and even fellow photographers. I want to develop personal relationships, beyond just my work and my photos. I want to showcase that I am very professional, a great communicator, and a positive extension of my client. I take a similar approach online, ensuring that I join relative social media groups, engage with them, and always market my business in the best light.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Front Rail Photography is truly driven by two forces.

First, it was my first “me” thing. I started this business when I was 35 years old and it was the first time in my life that I had truly put myself first. I have been a loving wife and mother, a dedicated employee, and so many things to so many other people, but selfishly, this was about me. I think a lot of women find themselves in this position in their lives, a time when they decide it’s ok to put themselves first for once, and this business was me following my dream.

Second, it sets an example for my daughter, that you should follow your dreams, pursue your passions, and do something that makes you happy. My daughter has been a huge supporter of this dream, right from the start, and even though it’s hard for a teenager to ever think their mom is cool…sometimes she let’s it slip that I am a cool mom.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://frontrailphotography.myportfolio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frontrailphotography
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FrontRailPhotography/

Image Credits

All photos are from Front Rail Photography.