The Big Idea

Capture the speakeasy vibe of the group and each of its members.

The 12 String Roulette shoot itself was comprised of two parts: 1) getting content for the band and 2) getting content for the venue. The decision to shoot half in black and white and half in color provided both parties with a unique way to promote themselves.

I was there to record a band called 12 String Roulette. I was unfamiliar with the music of these legendary folk heroes before that night. These people are larger-than-life citizens of the local nightlife. The soup kitchen for the soul for those who crave the amplified jazz riffs combined with a lavish sound of languages, foreign and domestic. The intimate space begged the viewer to come closer—no velvet ropes between you and the performance. Patrons were at Tips Jar’s length away from the talent. It truly felt like these were Grassroots musicians. In it for the love of the craft and bragging rights amongst friends.

Because the band is more laid back in their delivery, the group and each member were relatively easy to capture on camera. Relaxed and poised while belting out tunes, members often took turns on lead vocals. Their style of music reminds me of the speakeasy-style of jazz, so black and white seemed like a fitting choice to capture that timeless feel. Switching my position often made for more dynamic images. Shooting from the front, shooting from below, and breaking the plane between viewers and participants just by changing location made the cast either more heroic or more personable. I hope to regroup with the band again in the future.