As an event photographer, you always look for elements that make a stage design pop. The contrast of Ryan Tedder’s bright yellow jacket against the deep, moody venue lighting immediately draws the eye. But what really makes this stage setup special is the inclusion of the live string section right behind him. Capturing the classical elements of the cello and violin mixed with massive arena pop-rock production makes for such a dynamic, layered shot. 

As a live music photographer, I am always looking for ways to emphasize the specific atmosphere of a performance. While some shows explode in color, others reveal their true emotion in the interplay of light and shadow. Processing this gallery in black and white forces you to focus entirely on the raw intensity in Ryan Tedder's expression, the striking rim lighting from the massive spotlights, and the intimate texture of the live string section, even in a massive arena setting.