Welcome to our ‘Manchester on Instagram’ series! Over the coming weeks, we’re going to profile some of Manchester’s best Insta-snappers and their incredible pictures.
James Gebhard is a veteran live sound engineer who's worked with the likes of The Strokes, The Killers and The Vaccines. His wife's passion for Manchester inspired him to move to the city with his two sons. He says: 'I think it is great to have a very defined idea and projection of what you like, but for me, every photograph is different.' We asked him to give us a tour of the city via his Instagram account @noisegeek27.
1. Out of all your pictures of Manchester, which is your favourite?
'That's like trying to decide what's your favourite pudding! I guess it's this photo of the exit stairwell at Castlefield station which leads down to the canal basin. It's vibrant red and in the middle of a small industrial wasteland.'
2. What's your favourite landmark to snap?
'I like the Manchester Civil Justice Centre, built in 2007 and affectionately known as 'The Filing Cabinet'. I love architecture and let's face it, it's a bit bizarre. What's great is how the coloured glass reflects the mood of the sky, which in turn makes it interesting to shoot and capture different aspects of the design, day or night.'
3. What's your go-to filter? Do you use any additional apps?
'Instagram-wise I have to admit I love X-Pro 2. Even if it's just a text-based screen shot it gets the X-Pro treatment. App-wise, I love the old classics like Snapseed and Laminar. It really is incredible how many amazing features both apps pack in.'
4. Is there a photo you've taken that's been unexpectedly brilliant?
'For me, the photos that continually catch me by surprise are live concert shots. I find gig photography so hard yet so rewarding. It's a continuously changing environment so you have to be on the ball; constantly trying to second guess the artist. You are contending with roaring music, lighting changing from dark to light - often dramatic and blinding. Add to that artists running, jumping, never standing still, and then there's THE SMOKE MACHINE!'
5. Where's the best view in Manchester?
'The Manchester skyline is iconic and it continues to improve. You'll often find me snapping from the top of car parks - it's a great way to get access to some breathtaking views around the city, without having to buy an apartment in Beetham Tower or Number 1 Deansgate!'
Spotted a great Instagram account you think we should check out? Email a link to Kate Lloyd