'From the Pit' photography exhibition a chance for NZ music fans to relive favourite shows

The showcase features the work of 33 Kiwi photographers.
The showcase features the work of 33 Kiwi photographers. Photo credit: Eno X Dirty by Shelley Te Haara (left) & Aaradhna by Ginny C (right)

An annual exhibition showcasing the work of music photographers who capture New Zealand artists performing live at local venues has kicked off.

From the Pit celebrates the craft and art of live music photography, displaying prints taken at gigs as far back as 2005. 

Pictures from 33 photographers aim to illustrate Aotearoa's vibrant music scene and the exhibition includes an audio-visual element presented in a seven-minute slideshow.  

Coinciding with New Zealand Music Month 2021, the event runs from May 24 - 30 in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. 

Photographer Chontalle Musson told Newshub the showcase, which first launched in 2019, is a great opportunity for music fans to look back and relive the action from their favourite shows. 

Banks Arcade by Amanda Hodge.
Banks Arcade by Amanda Hodge. Photo credit: Supplied.

She's one of three photographers who designed and curated the show and says the industry is bouncing back after the live music scene ground to a halt during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

"When everything started back up after the second Auckland lockdown, it was all go. Everyone was really excited to get back into it to support everything local, including the music scene and smaller venues - everyone was banding together," said Musson.

"As a photographer, it's really cool that a lot of artists are finding more value in having us there. If they didn't have a photographer before COVID-19, they didn't have any physical memories to look back on.

Work included in the display by Des Nielsen and Stella Gardner of Troy Kingi (left) and Ria Hall (right).
Work included in the display by Des Nielsen and Stella Gardner of Troy Kingi (left) and Ria Hall (right). Photo credit: Supplied.

"I think it's brought everyone together a little bit more - which is a positive thing to come out of it." 

She says the exhibition is a chance to reflect on the good times. 

"We all love New Zealand music, so it's great to focus on capturing lasting memories."