Photographer Jason Gallagher, who currently lives outside Omagh but grew up in Tempo, has a huge interest in music, that is evident in his photography.

Attending local gigs, he skilfully captures the rawness and passion of musicians mid-performance, which become even more striking with his editing, often choosing to portray his subjects in high-contrast monochrome.

Here he talks to The Impartial Reporter about his background in photography, what equipment he uses and his photography style.

Are you a full-time photographer or do you have another profession too?

I AM currently a semi-professional photographer.

Are you self-taught or did you do a course/degree in photography?

I STUDIED photography as a part of the Creative Media Production Foundation Degree at the South West College in Omagh between 2011-2014.

When did you first discover an interest in photography?

MY FIRST exposure to photography was when I was a kid. My aunt would let me help her develop photographs in the dark room at the photography studio that she used to work at.

I would occasionally pick up a camera in the years following this, but it wouldn’t be until I studied photography that I really discovered that I had an interest in it.

I was encouraged to continue with photography by family, friends and from feedback from people that I’ve worked with.

What inspires your photography?

I AM inspired by a lot of internationally-renowned photographers, but I also find a lot of inspiration in the work that is created by local photographers.

What is your favourite photograph, to date?

MY FAVOURITE PHOTOGRAPH changes from day to day, but it’s typically a photograph that has captured the moment.

What photograph are you most proud of?

I’M PROUD of the photographs that people have used for their profile images on social media or that people have printed out to preserve a memory.

What type of camera/equipment do you use?

I USE a Canon 600D which I’ve had for about eight years. It’s a very reliable camera that has served me well. I have three lenses – an 18-55mm lens, a 75-200mm lens and a 50mm lens.

I also use a Neewer TT560 Flash Speedlite, which is useful when photographing bands in live settings.

I currently edit my photographs on my phone with either Snapseed or Adobe Lightroom, via a USB-C adapter and USB cable.

How would you describe your photography style?

MY PHOTOGRAPHY style can fluctuate, but I often like to edit photographs to be black and white.

What is your favourite subject matter and why?

I’VE TAKEN photographs across a variety of genres to try to become a well-rounded photographer.

However, I really enjoy taking photographs of musicians because I’ve a huge interest in music.

I enjoy going to gigs, and the musicians that I’ve worked with also really appreciate the work that I do.