Today we’d like to introduce you to Beth Saravo.
Beth, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
My story feels like it begins with a series of random yet serendipitous events. When people ask me “How long have you been shooting?” my answer is usually “Forever.” I don’t mean this in any pretentious or intense way, instead I explain, as a child I was constantly taking photos of friends, at school, at events, etc. I saw it as such an important way to safeguard memories. None of these photos ever fell in the realm of creative or art, instead just an innocent hobby.
This hobby took over as I entered my late teens where I began to edit, learn lighting and delve into the art that is photography. My career in shooting music began accidentally. I was asked to take photos of a local band who had won Battle of the Bands on Warped Tour. I arrived at the showgrounds, excited and nervous. And little did we know I had the wrong credentials and wasn’t allowed to take photos. I went to speak to Production and explained my situation, and a man from LiveNation gave me the correct photo pass and his e-mail. We kept in touch after this day, and I began shooting larger & larger artists for LiveNation. This passion skyrocketed into what it is today – where I spend most of my professional time shooting in music.
Sometimes we don’t choose our paths; they choose us.
We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
I shoot music full-time. This includes touring with artists, promotional imagery, behind-the-scenes, etc. I aim to find the emotions and moments; more than just your average photos from a live show. I find some of my favorite photos come from the most intimate moments. I end up being around the musicians I work with a lot, so trust and friendship is a result of this time. In turn, the photos I take can be private and more meaningful.
In terms of why I do what I do, there’s no further explanation than shooting makes me happier than anything I have ever done. It is my safe place, my calm, but also gets my adrenaline rushing. It makes sense in my head but also challenges me daily.
I have recently found a larger purpose; inspiring women who want to work in male-dominated industries. Leading by example, I aim to show women that it’s possible to thrive alongside our male counterparts. Most of the photo teams and tours I work on are largely male, which in no way is a negative thing. Being a woman, and sometimes the only woman on set has so many advantages; we bring a softer feminine side that is often remembered and appreciated.
Have things improved for artists? What should cities do to empower artists?
In my opinion, working and surviving as an artist in recent years is what you make of it. There are so many available resources to elevate us as individuals and connect us with others in and around our field. Photography has almost become an average consumer hobby, so it takes a lot to stand out from the masses, BUT with patience and practice, IT IS POSSIBLE! And those who do, they are praised.
I have only been in Los Angeles for four years, but I have found this city and its residents do a lot to support artists. Supporting can range from attending local shows to offering insight to newcomers on how to get involved in local scenes. Publications such as this give us an idea of how many incredible people live and thrive here!
Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
As many creatives in 2019, my work can be seen on Instagram under my nickname @Baeth. Support can range from a recommendation to purchasing prints during exclusive releases. The biggest way to survive in this industry is word of mouth, so every job I receive through good word is very very appreciated.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.bethsaravo.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/baeth/
Image Credit:
Personal Photo # 1 (@Divad)
Personal Photo # 2 (@MattDoscher)
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition, please let us know here.
