Daily Inspiration: Meet Melanie Russell

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melanie Russell.

Hi Melanie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m an artist and expressing through different formats, I’ve always enjoyed challenging myself, and photography was always a hobby. Still, it was during the pandemic that I slowly started to learn to accept myself and my passion for music. That’s when I decided to take the more seriously with concert photography. I started TikTok during the pandemic and got some traction, then slowly started to build mutuals and connections with some labels and artists along the way; though I can’t be 100%, I think that might have helped me get started with getting my foot in the industry. I’ve had some pretty cool opportunities to shoot and meet some of the people I grew up listening to, like Yellowcard, Sleeping with Sirens, and more. I recently got back from a mini tour with Taylor Acorn, Heart Attack Man, and Hot Mulligan; I’m incredibly thankful for everything so far, and I’m excited for what’s to come.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a smooth road?
I believe I’ve been pretty blessed with some of the opportunities I’ve gotten and been getting, though, from a personal perspective, it’s not as easy as it may all seem. Having a “yes mentality’ and being flexible because you’re constantly on the go and never know when you’re leaving. Or even where you’re going, haha, so it can sometimes be a little tiring. And then, come to the realization that when you’re pursuing your dreams and passions, you might lose some people in your life along the way. Some friends and family might never understand why you’re pursuing it, though that part is tough. I’ve found some incredible and supportive people along the way; I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Concert Photography in the Alt music industry. I’m not sure if this counts, but you can almost always catch me in some odd position to capture the photo. I think the thing I’m most proud of is just the experiences I’ve been able to have and people I’ve gotten to know along the way, and how much I’ve grown into myself and as a photographer. I’m not sure. I know I try to capture the artist(s)/band(s)’ music and image for who they are. I want to honor their work and artistry through my edits and pictures.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
Music has always been such an important part of my life, and I remember the first concert I was in eighth grade, it was a festival, and I remember seeing Alice in Chains and Pearl Jam for the first time live. At that moment, I felt the most alive and in my element. Surrounded by people that had the same passion and love for music as I did.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.melanierussell.photography
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/itsmelanierussell
• Other: www.tiktok.com/melanierussell