As a photographer — more specifically a photojournalist — my favorite thing to capture in an image is raw emotion. Emotion can be found anywhere and at any time, and that emotion can be preserved forever with the click of a button (and adjustment of various camera settings, of course).

Of the many events and people I’ve photographed during my time at Student Media, I’ve found that my photos depicting musicians tend to display the best and strongest emotions. When a musician truly loves what he or she is doing — whether it be singing, playing guitar, violin or some other instrument — that passion can come through clear as day in a still image.

Photographing musicians can be tricky. After all, a picture is a silent representation of a very audio-based art form. It can also be frustrating from a technical standpoint, because often the atmosphere of a concert or performance doesn’t lend itself to bright lighting.

However, whenever I go back to my office and pull the raw images up on my computer for processing, I am truly taken aback by just how much passion, dedication and joy can shine though in just a quiet, digital image.

I’ve shot musicians in various settings. Whether it be the UNA Ascending Voices Gospel Choir during their winter concert, the Secret Sisters and firekid performing during UNA Homecoming, students DJing campus events or even New Orleans street-performing duo Tanya and Dorise on a corner in the French Quarter, but one thing is abundantly clear in all: These people love what they do.

Music is an art form that is meant to be shared and felt together. I’m thankful that though my camera, I’m able to preserve the beautiful music and emotions that are created by all the talented musicians I’ve been privileged enough to photograph.