Music Is My True Passion, Not Photography

In the world of indie music photography, few names stand out quite like Alex Renaud. Renowned for his distinct style that is often imitated but never duplicated, Alex has established himself as the leading photographer in the indie music scene. As a fellow songwriter, I’ve collaborated with Alex for nearly five years, and his blend of humor and humility, despite his immense success, always leaves me curious about his journey. Recently, I met with him at his favorite spot, a cozy café in Manhattan, to delve deeper into his artistic philosophy over a few pastries.

What do you cherish most in your work?

You know, I’ve never actually been asked that. But honestly, it’s the feeling of knowing I’ve contributed positively to an artist’s vision. When a musician tells me that my photo captures exactly what they were looking for, there’s no greater satisfaction. The only other experience that matches that feeling is probably indulging in some decadent fried mac and cheese from Cheesecake Factory. It’s a strange comparison, but they evoke similar levels of joy.

If you could create a photo that satisfied that fried mac and cheese craving, would you retire?

Well, the thing is, fried mac and cheese has such high standards that it’s almost impossible to please. It’s like trying to win over a distant relative—you keep hoping for a connection, but often you just end up feeling unfulfilled.

Your ability to capture an artist’s essence is remarkable. What’s your approach?

I’ve pondered this quite a bit. Sometimes I don’t have a clear strategy. If the person I’m photographing is closed off or anxious, it doesn’t matter how beautiful the setting is; the photo won’t resonate. The key is that the artist must be willing to let me in. It’s their choice, and I believe my artistic capability can’t substitute for that connection.

What’s your favorite pastry here?

Definitely the crème brûlée doughnut.

Isn’t that a bit pretentious for a doughnut?

Can a doughnut really be pretentious? Just look at it! It seems to say, “I’m special.” I prefer the more humble options that don’t try too hard.

Have you kept up with my work while on tour?

Absolutely! Seeing you shoot all my favorite artists is exhilarating. For instance, I caught My Brightest Diamond live in Stockholm, and it was transformative. I was so thrilled to find out you had photographed her; it felt right.

You often work with notable artists. How do you approach those shoots?

My primary goal is to portray each subject authentically. I avoid excessive conversation before the shoot and prefer to focus solely on the artist. For example, when I shot with Cat Power, we had just five minutes in a cramped dressing room, but she cleared the space for us. In that brief time, I took twenty photos, capturing her true self.

How did you get started in photography?

That’s a good question. I’ve always wanted to be involved in music but lacked the talent to perform or write songs myself. I began selling merchandise for an artist I met in college, and one day, she asked me to take some photos. They turned out well, and I realized I could continue shooting musicians for free to hone my skills. After three years in D.C., I moved to New York City to broaden my horizons.

Your editing style seems consistent. Is there a method to it?

Absolutely. My lack of formal education in photography has shaped my approach. I focus on basic functions in editing software, like color balance and contrast. I believe that simplicity helps me maintain a strong focus on emotional resonance rather than getting lost in technicalities.

Do you have a list of dream artists you want to photograph?

Sure! I’d love to shoot artists like Lykke Li, Bjork, or Cyndi Lauper. However, I don’t actively pursue a mental list. My aim is to improve each year and prioritize quality over quantity.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Picture this: four doughnuts, almond milk, and waking up at exactly 10 a.m.

In summary, Alex Renaud’s journey in photography is driven by his passion for music rather than the technical aspects of the craft. He emphasizes the emotional connection with artists and focuses on capturing their true essence in a way that resonates with viewers. His unique approach to photography has made him a sought-after name in the indie music scene, while his commitment to growth ensures he continues to evolve as an artist.

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