An excerpt from the book from the collection. This is my own musician's story and self-portrait, the last one I made in the series.

Artist's Statement ​

The Musicians’ Portrait Sessions began with one goal. I wanted to create one stand-out portrait of each of my bandmates that showcased lifelong musicians as the unique, deeply interesting people they are. I was looking to create a paradigm shift from the stereotype of band geeks or nerds (because I’m one of them and I know how cool we are beyond our white band polos).

I was looking to make each musician’s individualized portrait, as though they were a rock star and this was their album cover. Then, the project evolved into so much more. It was a relationship builder. I’ve had the opportunity to interact one-on-one with each member of the band, and we’ve shared the adventures of making their portraits. Discovering what makes a musician tick is the surprising benefit of the project. The commonality we all share as lifelong musicians is that playing music is integral to our definition of ourselves. Making music is a need that feeds our souls. When I asked each person what advice they had for young players, nearly everyone said: “Keep playing,” “Practice,” and “Find a welcoming group.” With this easy-going band, we’ve all found a place where, to quote one of my bandmates, we’ve “found our people” and enjoy making music together. There are some of us, who when asked about our other hobbies, replied “Music is my hobby!” For others, music is infused into our lives, but augmented by other passions ranging from science to sewing to woodworking. We incorporated trains, planes and automobiles into several portraits with my bandmates proudly polishing up not just their instruments, but also their collectible cars and bikes. Some of our sessions incorporated tributes to a time gone by, to loved ones or people they admired, either by their setting choice, props or poses.

This process was also a significant step toward defining who I am as a photographer. This project was not work, it was not a “labor” of love, it was pure fun and joy. At the beginning, when people asked me what kind of photographer I am or what I’m going to do with it, I hemmed and hawed around the answer. Here’s what I’m sure of now: Because I couldn’t sing with my voice, I chose my instrument so I could sing through my flute. Because I can’t paint, I make photographs with the care I would give if I’d made a painting. I’m looking to make a connection, seal a memory, and create a small, but significant collection or one memorable portrait.

Making this collection has ignited my creative fire and I’m looking forward to the next project. I present to you my fascinating and talented bandmates, the musicians of the Novi Concert Band.

If you would like a copy of the collection, a 100-page softcover book, The Musicians' Portrait Sessions, send me an email at WordSmithPhoto@gmail.com with Musicians' Portraits Book in the subject line, and we'll work out the details.

Stephanie Smith Hall
​October 2019