Make Music Pasadena

Summers in California are always hot, sometimes miserably so. Period. The start to what I'm hoping turns out to be a very fruitful summer, photography-wise, began for me at the Make Music Pasadena festival on June 21st. Yes, that was the summer solstice. The longest day of the year. What better way to spend the long hot southern California day then by taking(or making, if you prefer) photos for a music website.


This marked the first time I would be shooting for HateSomethingBeautiful and so I was probably a bit nervous. Excitement and the desire to make the most of my press pass quickly replaced any doubts I might have had.

First band for the day, presented by French Cultural Services and FLAX(France Los Angeles Exchange), the Plastiscines


They were definitely a fun band. And they're French. Win, Win.

Next it was off to another stage, which I would've sworn was on the other side of Pasadena after walking there in the hot sun.
The band to see was none other than Dengue Fever





Following that, as the sun beat down, I was able to get photos of a band I love and was looking forward to the entire day. The Raveonettes made Make Music Pasadena their only summer U.S performance. I wish I could say that I got more photos or that I stayed for their entire set. It was the heat. I wasn't ready for the intense heat. In the area where the press photogs called home for the performance I was moving back and forth trying to get every photo I could possibly think of. I was also trying to discreetly keep the sweat off my face. I was a mess. Clearly not used to warmer weather. Photogs all around me probably shook their heads in shame. Nevertheless, I am happy with the photos I was able to get before I went to see the last performance I was instructed to get photos of...




Sharin Foo's sister, Loui, stood in for this performance.

I ended the day watching and taking photos of Jesca Hoop whose performance and style was a fitting end to a good day.



It was an amazing festival to be to attend. I hope to be fortunate enough to see another as enjoyable this one.