Appalachian Voices: Getting the Shot, Autumn Anderson (AKA Misguided Lens)

(Photo Credit - @misguidedlens)

Don’t look now, but there’s an artistic movement coming from the Appalachian Region (especially West Virginia). As a native of the Appalachian region in Ohio and an alumni of Ohio University and West Virginia University, it’s on me to share some of these voices! We’ve covered some great musicians from the region in this space, but we’re switching things up and highlighting a photographer who does a ton of concert photography in the region. Autumn Anderson (AKA @misguidedlens), is a native West Virginian who does some phenomenal work on the scene.

You are part of an emerging group of artists on the scene coming out of the Appalachian region (I’m from there too!), particularly West Virginia. Can you share how the region has impacted you as a person and as an artist?

“I really appreciate you reaching out and wanting to interview me. Honestly, I was tickled at the thought of you wanting to. Growing up in West Virginia I appreciate the beauty in the ordinary. The people, the places, the stories, and all the little moments that are so easy to overlook. I think that has had a huge impact on me as both a person and an artist. It’s a big part of why I’m drawn to photography now. I’m always looking for the people and places that might otherwise go unnoticed and trying to show the beauty that’s already there.”

I was shocked to learn you have been shooting professionally for less than a year as your work is very strong. What brought you to pursue photography and especially music photography?

“Wow, how kind of you. I started photography in March of this year and I never expected it to lead to everything it has.”

“My boyfriend, Nathan Bess, is a musician and we originally talked about getting a camera so I could help create better content for him. Once it arrived, I started teaching myself by walking around a local cemetery, photographing statues and experimenting with posing and lighting. It’s still one of my favorite places to go because I can just take pictures without any pressure.”

“A few months later, I started reaching out to artists whose music I genuinely connected with.”

(Photo Credit - @misguidedlens)

I have to ask as a music adjacent artist, who are some of your favorite musicians? Also, do you have any favorites you’ve had the opportunity to work with?

“My all time favorite artist is Hayley Williams, who I actually got to see at the Ryman this year. Then I’d have to say Shakey Graves, Senora May, Joshua Slone , Noeline Hofmann.”

“As far as artists I’ve had the opportunity to work with, I feel really lucky. A lot of the people I’ve photographed are artists whose music I already connected with. Abbie McAllister has been my favorite. She just knows what to do behind the lens, she’s so kind, and connecting with her has also connected me to so many other opportunities. I’m really grateful to call her a friend.”

I’ve done some concert photography for the site and have stepped back because I’m terrible and it’s very difficult to do well. Can you speak to what makes shooting shows unique and perhaps more challenging than other types of photography you do? Additionally, I love to know photographers favorite (ex large photo pits) and least favorite (ex green lighting or fog machines) about shooting a show?

“Shooting shows has become one of my favorite types of photography. Capturing people completely in their element, just being themselves. My favorite part is actually the crowd. I love watching people connect to a song, seeing strangers become friends, and watching all of that energy build throughout a show.”

“My least favorite part is definitely the nerves before a show. I still get nervous every single time, especially wondering if I’m going to get the shots I’m hoping for. Once the music starts that usually disappears pretty quickly though.“

Who are some of your inspirations from a photography perspective? 

“My biggest photography inspiration is Emma Delevante, who is currently working with Tyler Childers. I also have to mention my really good friend, Rylin Gentry. She has been such a genuine person throughout this whole journey so far. She’s given me advice, hyped me up when I’ve doubted myself, and has always been willing to answer my one million questions. Having someone who encourages you to keep going and believes in your work means more than I can really put into words, and I’m really grateful to have her in my corner.”

Who’s on your wish list of artists you’d like to work with?

“I would love to work with so many artists but top of my list is Angela Autumn, Noeline Hofmann, Briley King, Hayley Williams, and Senora May.”

FMI on Autumn follow her @misguidedlens.