Photographer Profile: Preston Hooks
1. What first attracted you to photography?
The ability to show someone the way you see them. Words often fall short when trying to express how you truly view a person, but photography bridges that gap. Especially in the digital era, it gives you the freedom to be dramatic, stylized, and intentional in how you paint a picture. Whether it’s capturing a light, airy look for a ‘70s-inspired band or something dark and sinister for a top-tier deathcore act, photography lets you shape the mood. Sometimes it’s about showing an artist glowing on stage, and other times it’s revealing the quieter, more tucked-away version of themselves off stage. It’s a powerful way to share your own view, and that’s kind of the point.
2. What is a moment you are most proud of in regards to photography?
There are a few. Photography is one of the few things I’ll boldly say I’m good at and I take a lot of pride in that. Some of my standout moments include shooting my local friends in Cöre and Sevendust on the same night. Getting to capture a homegrown act alongside a legendary one was surreal. Another huge moment was covering Earthday Birthday with Godsmack headlining. Both experiences felt full circle. Being up close with bands that had been in my rotation since I was a pre-teen was powerful and personal.
3. Favorite style or subject to shoot?
Easily concerts. That work has dominated my portfolio for close to a decade now. That said, landscapes and wildlife are a close second. Especially big game and big mountains. I very much value the yin and yang of balancing concert chaos with the peace and solace of nature. I also f8jd myself consumed by disaster photography with each hurricane season. It’s a true privilege to tell the stories of everyday Floridians in the wake of those massive storms.
4. Favorite piece of equipment?
I don’t think I have one. One thing I’ve learned working in production is to just take the equipment available and get the job done. That said, if I had to take a wild guess, I’d say longer prime lenses. Anything 85mm or more. The compression, sharpness, and depth of field you get from those lenses is generally very impressive. I’m pretty fond of Sony gear, but I’ve used everything from Canon to RED.
5. What is your dream photography gig?
Touring at a sustainable rate. To me, that’s the pinnacle of concert photography. Being able to document an artist in their day-to-day life over a longer period lets you tell a much deeper story than what you can capture in just three songs.
6. Any advice for others who are interested in photography?
Cover the things you’re passionate about. Photography is art, and the process of creating art should be fulfilling. So focus on shooting what truly excites and inspires you.
Always, always, always put the art first. If you put the art first, you’ll never go wrong.
7. The best piece of advice you received starting out?
Not so much a single piece of advice, but more of an example that was set for me. During my time doing video production, I quickly learned this… put in a lot of smart work when you have the time, because eventually, you won’t. The cast and crew will need to go home, the show will end, the couple will be married and partied out. The gig will be over. CUT! So make the most of the time you have and work smart. Delivering a good product is a lot easier when you have options.
8. What services do you offer?
I currently offer live show photography both locally in Tallahassee, Florida and while traveling. I also offer artist and band portraits, product photography, and event photography.
9. How can someone contact you? (All links are welcome!)
I can be reached by phone/text at 850-743-9370 or by email at hooksp0215@gmail.com. You can also check out my Instagram and reach out there: https://www.instagram.com/flashoverphotography850/
About 850ME
850 Music & Entertainment 