These rare images were taken at Counterpoint Music Festival 2014 in Kingston Downs, GA. Although I’d been taking event photos for numerous years, this was the first production I’d shot with a DSLR camera. The tech was completely new to me and learning was challenging.
I diligently practiced all weekend in hopes there was a slim chance I’d get approved to photograph the festival’s headlining act — the legendary Outkast. We were told only a limited number of photographers would be chosen for this set and I would be notified if I was one.
I had no cell phone service at this venue. Accessing email required a long hike to the media tent for wifi. I climbed “the infamous steep hill” countless times that weekend. (If you went to Counterpoint, you know the hill.) Security searches were endless. It was blazing hot and humid. My legs were on fire. By the end of the last day, I hadn’t received a confirmation. I’d almost given up.
But just before the show, I decided to check one last time. There it was! “You’re approved…meet us at such-and-such time.” I looked at the clock. I had 5 minutes to race across the crowded field to the pit entrance. I made it just in time to shoot the best show of my career thus far.
Never…give…up.
words and photos by Jennifer McKinnon