Birmingham Celebrates Local Music Through Photography Exhibit
Birmingham, Ala. – Since September 9, residents and visitors alike have had the opportunity to enjoy a stunning collection of black-and-white photographs featuring musicians at the Fourth Floor Gallery of the Birmingham Public Library. This exhibit highlights the talent of local photographer Roger Stephenson, who has dedicated his lens to capturing the vibrant music scene in Birmingham. A reception celebrating his work took place on Saturday afternoon, where attendees gathered to appreciate both the art and the artist.
A Journey From Accountant to Acclaimed Photographer
Originally from Leeds, England, Stephenson moved to the United States in 1976, starting his professional career as an accountant. After relocating to Birmingham in 2002, he found employment with Southern Living. It wasn’t until his retirement in 2009 that he began to pursue photography as a serious passion. “I’d always been interested in photography, and I’d always been interested in music, and so I kind of put the two together when I had time to do it,” he shared during the event.
His journey into music photography began with visits to some of Birmingham’s lesser-known music venues, often referred to as “hole-in-the-wall” spots. “There’s great music in Birmingham, so I thought, ‘Why not take photographs?’” Stephenson recounted, noting how the local scene inspired him to capture its essence.
Documenting the Spirit of Live Music
It didn’t take long for patrons of these venues to recognize Stephenson’s talent for capturing the spirit of performers. “People started saying, ‘Hey, that’s a good photograph!’ So I started doing more and more of it,” he explained. His approach involved posting these snapshots on social media and sharing them with the musicians he photographed at no cost, allowing their artistry to reach a wider audience.
Now, 15 years later, on a rainy September day, complete strangers mingle through the exhibit, captivated by each snapshot that tells a story. “I try to capture someone at a point of doing something,” he said. “With his mouth open, with an expression, with him playing, with him being on-stage. So, I hope it can transport [viewers] back to that stage, looking at the musician – and maybe even hear a little music if they think about it!”
Reflections on Music and Memory
As visitors stroll through the gallery, many share personal anecdotes with Stephenson, recalling beloved clubs featured in his photographs that have since closed their doors. Others reflect on musicians he captured who are no longer with us, emphasizing the profound impact of his work. “When you take the photograph at the time, you don’t really think that you’re documenting history,” he noted. “But when you look back 10, 15 years… it is documenting history as far as a lot of those people, or the club that is not open anymore. So yeah, there’s Birmingham history.”
A Lasting Impression
Roger Stephenson’s photography exhibit will remain on display at the Birmingham Public Library’s Fourth Floor Gallery until October 25. The exhibit is free to the public, providing an accessible way for everyone to experience Birmingham’s rich musical legacy through the lens of a passionate photographer.
This event not only showcases beautiful photographs but also serves as a heartfelt reminder of the vibrant music history that Birmingham has fostered over the years. With community members coming together to celebrate local art, Stephenson’s work continues to resonate, preserving the memories and stories of Birmingham’s musical past for all to enjoy in the future.
