A portrait project about emerging music in Ireland

Music starts long before anyone is watching. Before the gigs get big, before the reviews, before the streaming numbers, there’s a stage where everything is still forming — the ambition, the identity, the sound, the hope.

“Before They Were Famous” is a portrait series that focuses on musicians in that early, electric stage of their journey. Not famous yet. Not polished yet. But full of potential.

This project aims to capture the real people behind the music — their personality, energy, vulnerability, drive, and everything that makes an artist an artist before the spotlight finds them.

These portraits are simple, honest, and human.

About the project

I’m photographing emerging musicians and bands across Ireland to create a cohesive set of portraits that reflect the early chapter of becoming an artist.

This isn’t about performance or stage personas.

It isn’t about looking like a finished product.

It’s about the raw moment just before everything starts happening — the spark, the hunger, the belief.

The series will form part of an artistic project exploring the identity of musicians before fame shapes how the world sees them.

If you’re someone who’s building your sound, writing your own material, or simply trying to get your music out into the world, I’d love to photograph you.

Who I’m looking for

• Solo musicians
• Bands
• Singer-songwriters
• DJs
• Producers
• Instrumentalists
• Artists making original music
• Anyone at the start or middle of their creative journey

Experience doesn’t matter.

Genre doesn’t matter.

What matters is that you care about what you’re making.

What you get

• A professional portrait session — free of charge
• Final edited images you can use for social media, promo, gig posters, Spotify Canvas, etc.
• A chance to be featured as part of the full portrait series
• A collaborative experience that’s all about capturing who you are right now

There’s no cost, no catch, and no pressure.

What a shoot is like

Sessions are straightforward and easy — usually 45–90 minutes.

We chat, try a few poses, explore a look that feels true to you, and build images together.

You don’t need to act “famous” or perform.

You just need to be yourself.

Shoots can take place in a simple indoor location, studio environment, or a space connected to where you rehearse or spend time.

No modelling, acting or posing experience required.

What I ask

• Be open to being photographed honestly
• Bring your own style and ideas – I want to see the real you
• Allow me to include your images in the “Before They Were Famous” project