It’s always a treat getting to shoot a band you absolutely adore! Having been a huge H.I.M fan for quite a few years now, I was greatly anticipating the opportunity to photograph these guys.

Which is saying something. Earlier in the day I won a pass to go and see the incredible Faith No More but I surrendered that ticket to my cousin. Couple that with the fact that also, Meshuggah were doing a show elsewhere – I decided to stick with Ville and the boys and finally get to photograph this truly incredible band.

From the outset, The Hifi Bar was packed to the rafters. I was there about an hour early, made my way to the photo-pit and just could not believe the heat inside this place.

A hot night for rock and roll!

I shot tonight totally with my new 70-200mm – wanting to put it through the ringer and see what I could achieve with it. Granted, I am missing the hell out of my 24-105mm lens which is still getting repaired – but I thought it would be a good challenge to see what this new baby could do. I was pleased with the results. Even without the IS (Image Stablization) I managed to get some good, crisp, sharp results. I also fiddled around with my White Balance tonight and was trying for a more warm, ambient atmosphere.

I didn’t stay past my allotted three song limit in the photo-pit but as far as I could tell, it was proving to be a pretty raucous and fun gig. I’m sure the packed Hifi Bar had themselves a great night tonight.

And as much as I love the band, I was more concerned with my photos to worry about anything else…