Trans-Siberian Orchestra at Verizon Center Dec 9

I had heard a lot about Trans-Siberian Orchestra and had heard one of their Christmas CD's - which we affectionately used to call the "Heavy Metal Christmas" album - so I was super excited to see them live.  After shooting the 1st 3 songs I was able to check my cameras and watch the rest of the show with a friend from the 4th row (Thanks, Kaitlin!).

The lighting was unlike any show I'd seen before, the snow falling from the ceiling was awesome, and the musicians were incredible.  Anna Phoebe made my friend and I both wish we had learned to play violin so we could be as cool as her, and I still can't get over the fact that Alex Skolnick from Testament (one of my favorite metal bands) was shredding on guitar.

AMAZING!  

Miley Cyrus at Verizon Center

The Miley Cyrus show at Verizon Center was, by far, my most challenging shoot ever. Only 2 photographers were approved and we had to shoot from the soundboard which was at ground-level and at the complete opposite end of the stadium from the stage. The excitement of these young fans seeing one of their idols in person was incredible. The sheer energy in that room could have powered a small city for days.

We had 1 song (about 3 minutes) to capture our images over a sea of wildly waving posters and kids perched on shoulders. Approximately 98% of my shots were obstructed by a head or a black square.

I'm thrilled to have had this opportunity and actually amazed that I managed to get a few decent shots. I'd do it again in a heartbeat. Maybe I just need to purchase some KISS-esque platform boots for these situations.

KISS at Verizon Center - October 13 2009

OK, KISS fanatics... you were right. I now officially love this band. All I can say is "WOW!!!"

Green Day at Verizon Wireless

Kaiser Chiefs at Verizon Wireless