Ryan Russell might be this country's preeminent rock photographer, though living in Birmingham, AL, he's probably slipped your radar even if you've assuredly seen his work. Having shot some of the biggest names in music with photos appearing in the likes of NY Times and Rolling Stone (not to mention, a cover of Impose Magazine circa 2007), you might be surprised at the intimate nature of his work. Which is why bands like Death Cab For Cutie, and Against Me! (both pre- and post-Laura Jane Grace), continue to bring him on the road to document their working lives.
Ryan recently relocated from Birmingham to Bellingham, WA, and took the cross-country opportunity to photograph something other than music. His most recent book, “Continental Obscura: From Birmingham to Bellingham”, explores the national parks, monuments, landmarks, backroads and cultural attractions that he saw along his journey. As you'll see, the imagery is grand and compelling, but like his music photos, it remains intimate and personal.
“Continental Obscura: From Birmingham to Bellingham” comes out on April 8th via No Sleep Records and will be accompanied by an exclusive 7″ featuring a new, unreleased track from Manchester Orchestra and a rare B-side from Minus The Bear, two bands that Ryan's photographed many times over the years. Below are a few select images from the book.
