Interview with Concert Sports Photographer Divya Joshi

From Live Concert Stages to High-Intensity Sports Fields

Photography across concerts and sports is often perceived as purely energetic and glamorous — packed venues, dramatic lighting, and decisive moments frozen in time. But behind every frame is a longer journey of persistence, experimentation, and learning to see emotion before action unfolds.

In this interview, photographer Divya shares her journey from concert photography to sports photography, how unexpected opportunities shaped her career, the lessons she picked up while working across genres, and her perspective on storytelling, consistency, and growth in a highly competitive visual industry.

About Divya

Divya is a photographer who works across both concert and sports genres, with her journey beginning in event photography through live music and concerts. A defining moment came when she captured a well-known group at a college event, which led to her being hired as their personal photographer and eventually working on 80+ concerts with major artists, while also exploring weddings, product, and newborn shoots. She later expanded into sports photography, where she developed a strong emotional connection to the intensity and adrenaline of live games, especially sports like kabaddi.

Q1 Where did you start your journey in photography? Which Company which genre (Sports/wedding/lifestyle/product)?

I started as an event photographer, covering concerts in the early years. One day, I captured a single shot of a well-known group at a college event, and they liked it so much that they hired me as their personal photographer.

Working closely with them built my confidence, and from there I went on to shoot 80+ concerts with some of the biggest artists. Alongside that, I also explored wedding, product, and newborn photography.

It’s been almost 4–5 years in this field now, and every shoot has added something new to my journey. 

Q2 What Do you like most about Sports Photography? Which Other Genre Do you like the Most

What draws me to sports photography is the raw emotion. I never thought I’d get into sports because I wasn’t much of a sports person myself. But once I stepped into it, I felt deeply connected.

The game pulls you in — every win and loss feels personal, like you’ve played it yourself. The adrenaline, the fast pace, the split-second edits… I love that energy.

I’ve shot kabaddi, and that experience is something I’ll carry with me forever. Beyond sports, I also enjoy wedding and portrait photography because they let me capture real, unfiltered emotions. 

Q3 Any mistakes which you had learned the most from? Can be technical as well as Practical mistakes related to photography?

Definitely. A few things that changed my approach:

Check references before the shoot. A quick look at Pinterest helps me visualize what works and push my creativity further.

Pre-visualize shots. I try to picture the moments I want and stay ready to capture them.

Experiment with aesthetics and light. Playing with light and composition has taught me more than any tutorial. 

Q4 Any Tips for Sports Photographers Starting their Journey?

You will miss shots — and that’s okay. Don’t get demotivated. Stay focused on the next moment, because it might be the best one.

Stay active, stay alert, and look for the stories, not just the action. The emotion behind the game is what makes a photo powerful.

Also, understand the sport. When you connect with the game, your shots connect with people.

And yes, there will always be incredible photographers around you. Don’t compare. Be yourself, keep learning, and grow at your own pace. It’s your race — run it your way. 

Q5 Any youtube / Instagram Channels or Photographers You follow the Most?

Yes, I follow a few amazing photographers on Instagram for inspiration. 

For concerts, I really admire iamkatooch and lensingtheworld 

For sports, there are several talented photographers I keep an eye on to learn new angles and storytelling techniques.

Q6 Any Financial Advice on photographers Struggling to Stay Afloat?

It’s a long race. Some days you’ll be booked back-to-back, and some days will feel slow. Trust the process. 

In the beginning, the pay might not be great, but focus on improving your work, building relationships, and delivering consistently. 

Good work and strong contacts open doors. Keep showing up, keep creating, and the right opportunities will come.

Q7 Any Tips on How to reach the Big Leagues In Sports Photography? LIke IPL/ISL/Pro Kabbadi League/Indian Polo Season?

It comes down to two things: strong work and the right contacts. 

Keep posting your best shots on social media, network at events, and let your work speak for itself. Consistency and professionalism get noticed. 

If you’re good and people know you, the big leagues eventually open up.

Q8 Everyone Want reels these days? Do you Think Photography is no longer in Demand?

I’ve thought about that too, but I believe the right art always finds the right audience. 

I mostly post photos on my account, and they still reach and connect with a good number of people — often better than reels. 

Trends change, but storytelling through photography never goes out of demand.

Final Thoughts

Divya’s journey reflects how diverse photography experiences can shape a stronger creative voice. From high-energy concerts to emotionally charged sports moments, her work highlights the importance of preparation, visualising moments in advance, and focusing on storytelling rather than just action. Her key takeaway is simple yet powerful—missed shots are part of the process, consistency matters more than comparison, and long-term growth comes from staying committed, building connections, and trusting that meaningful work eventually finds its audience.