Camera, Concert, Creativity – That’s My Balance

When Samira Chiara is out and about with her camera, the world either stands still for a moment – or explodes, depending on whether she’s photographing a concert or doing a quiet portrait shoot in backlight. She follows her passion with impressive consistency. In this interview with the TAMRON Blog, she shares how music, photography, and creativity intertwine in her life.

Samira, you’re a passionate photographer. How did it all begin?

Samira: I’ve always had a camera with me – a little digital camera back in the day, later my phone. But it really took off in 2019 when I borrowed a Sony Alpha 7 II from a friend. I went to a concert, researched the settings I’d need beforehand – and the photos turned out really well. That’s what got the ball rolling. I bought the same camera right after. 

Did you jump straight into concert photography?

Samira: Yes, thanks to my friend who plays in a band, I had many opportunities to photograph at concerts and festivals. But I also just reached out to bands – and surprisingly, many said yes. That was a wonderful surprise. I never expected to be photographing bigger bands so soon. In recent months, I’ve shot bands like In Flames and Pantera, for example.

What fascinates you about concerts?

Samira: It’s those special moments when people completely surrender to the music. The energy that arises when the crowd reacts to what's happening on stage – it’s incredibly exciting. You never know what’s coming – every show is different. Sometimes there are surprise moments, like when a singer suddenly jumps into the crowd or does something unexpected. Those are the moments I try to capture.

You also shoot portraits – is that a contrast for you?

Samira: Yes, it’s a completely different world. Portraits are often quiet, atmospheric, and calm. I work a lot with natural light, often in backlight, and I like it when the image already has impact straight out of the camera. I don’t do much editing because I prefer the moment to stay real.

What’s the biggest challenge when shooting concerts?

Samira: The lighting. Many metal bands use very little light or only monochrome colors like red or blue – which makes things difficult from a photography standpoint. Sometimes you can only salvage the image with black-and-white editing to make the contours visible again. And of course, there’s the time pressure: you’re often only allowed to shoot during the first three songs. So everything has to go right.

How important is your gear to you?

Samira: Very important. I’ve been using the TAMRON 28–75mm F/2.8 for years – it’s the perfect lens for concerts, but also for portraits. It’s lightweight, flexible, and delivers great results. I’ve recently started using the Tamron 35–150mm F/2–2.8 as well. It covers a wider focal length range – ideal for shooting from the sound desk. It’s a bit heavier, but very versatile. For personal trips or smaller tours, I prefer a lighter setup, but in terms of quality, I’m really satisfied.

You’ve also modeled yourself. Has that shaped your work?

Samira: Absolutely. I know how it feels to be in front of the camera – that really helps when I’m working with people. I often show my models the results during the shoot, so they can see how it looks and better understand themselves. Many of my portraits happen without much direction – I try to create authentic moments.

What inspires you in your work?

Samira: Mostly the exchange with others. I love looking at work by other photographers, saving images I like, and trying things out myself. I don’t work with mood boards – I prefer it when ideas develop in conversation with the model. Often, I discover a location, show it to a potential model, and together we brainstorm what could come out of it. My inspiration comes from many different sources – places, people, color combinations, or music. Anything I perceive in my environment can captivate me and spark my own ideas.

Do you use creative tools like filters?

Samira: Yes, I love experimenting. I have a Black Mist filter, for example, because I really like that soft, slightly hazy look – especially in backlight, it looks beautiful. I also experiment with objects – glass or plastic film. I find it exciting not to do everything digitally, but to physically hold something in front of the lens and see what happens. This can create a very unique mood, especially in concerts or portraits.

How important is post-processing to you?

Samira: It’s important to me, but I try to get the shot right in-camera. I like muted, harmonious colors – nothing too bold. I edit to match my aesthetic, but I don’t do much retouching. I love it when a photo already looks great straight out of the camera – that’s when I know I’ve done a good job. But a little fine-tuning is totally fine and often enhances the image.

Do you have a dream project or an artist you’d love to photograph?

Samira: I have a lot of ideas – sometimes too many. I’m very creative, but often impatient with myself because I want to do so much. I don’t have specific names, but I’d love to travel more, meet new people, and shoot more bands and festivals in other countries. Maybe even get more into fashion again – I trained as a fashion tailor and have my own little label. My focus just shifted more toward photography recently.

Do you have a tip for others who want to get into photography?

Samira: Just do it. Try things out. I think it’s totally fine to just grab your camera without overthinking and see what happens. When I overthink, I often get in my own way. I’ve gained so much experience just by having the courage to talk to people – while traveling, at concerts, in everyday life. The camera can be a great door-opener.

Thanks for the interview, Samira! One last question: where can people see your work?

The best place is Instagram – I have four profiles. My concert photography is at @samira.chiara.concerts, my portraits and other work are at @samira.chiara.focus, my self-portraits are at @mrsgravedigger, and my design account is @mrs.gravedigger.design. I always appreciate feedback, new contacts – and creative exchange.