Gator By the Bay 2025 was four days of music, food, and nonstop energy along the San Diego waterfront. As a San Diego event photographer, I covered everything from zydeco legends and second line parades to food demos and accordion solos. Here’s what it looked like through my lens, from headlining acts to spontaneous dance circles, every corner of the festival had a story and after 14 straight workdays across three states, this one still stood out.
As usual, SXSW 2025 was a whirlwind of incredible moments, and I had the privilege of capturing them firsthand. From watching Sir Jude work her magic at the Central Presbyterian Church, to witnessing Sam Ryder’s explosive debut at the BME, it was a week full of surprises. I got to photograph artists whose music and energy left a lasting impression, including Bruvvy’s chaotic messy set and the powerful discussions at panels like Defying Invisibility with the lead actors from Hulu's new show Deli Boys. SXSW is always a unique experience, but this year felt particularly special, and I can’t wait to see where these artists go next.
Every summer, the serene Zephyr Lodge in Liberty Lake, WA, transforms into the vibrant epicenter of the Stone Family Field Trip—a weekend filled with music, connection, and unforgettable moments. This year’s event was no exception, featuring an incredible lineup of artists including Allen Stone, Jesse Gold, Mac Ayres, and Swatkins and the Positive Agenda. From intimate acoustic performances to electrifying full-band sets, each act brought their unique style to the stage, creating a one-of-a-kind experience against the stunning lakeside backdrop. As always, the Stone Family Field Trip showcases the magic that happens when creativity and community come together in perfect harmony. It's one of my favorite weeks of the year!
It’s no small secret that I love photographing music, whether it’s the chaos of SXSW or the soulful vibe of Bluesapalooza in Mammoth Lakes, CA. At events like Bluesapalooza, where music and nature merge, capturing the spirit of the festival is essential for marketing, sponsor visibility, and preserving the iconic moments that define the event. This year, I had the privilege of photographing incredible performances from artists like Trombone Shorty, Ozomatli, and The Record Company, whose unique styles and vibrant energy made for unforgettable images. Each artist brought something special to the festival, from Trombone Shorty’s New Orleans brass to Grace Bowers’ youthful, guitar-driven blues. As a Mammoth event photographer, my mission is to preserve the atmosphere, excitement, and essence of festivals like Bluesapalooza by creating images that accurately reflect the feeling and energy of the event.
As an Austin corporate event photographer, SXSW is always an exhilarating experience filled with innovation, creativity, and memorable encounters. I always find a few new music artists to add to my list of favorites. Among the multitude of activations, lounges, exhibits, and artists there this year, several stood out as true highlights. Here are my top picks, favorite finds, and best moments from SXSW 2024.
Allen Stone is no stranger to wacky ideas. Back in 2019, Al and his best friend Julian Gavilanes embarked on a karaoke tour of the United States. This year, they decided to bring it back, bigger and better than ever - a multi-state tour, a full crew, with a polished story, and 100x the fun and hijinks. It was a blend of an acoustic concert, with Allen performing intimate renditions of beloved songs, as well as new material, along with pre-show VIP meet and greets, an audience participation segment (that's the karaoke y'all), games, more than one or two surprises a night, and more! Photos and more from Allen Stone's Texas stops on his 2022 Karaoke Extravaganza.
Austin, TX 78704
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
lauren@laurenlindley.com
(512) 573-8606
Lauren Lindley is an Austin, TX and Lake Tahoe based commercial event photographer and wedding photographer. Lauren also specializes in lifestyle and branding photography, corporate events, portraits, and headshot photography. When she’s not drinking wine, Lauren can be found traversing the globe with glee.
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