When I was told I was going to be photographing Franz Ferdinand in Madrid, I just couldn't believe it.
I had photographed the band in Glasgow a few years ago when they released their breakthrough album and found them to be a really nice group of guys, I was hoping that worldwide fame hadn't changed them - it hasn't.
After meeting up with the tour manager, Rebecca Travis, I hooked up with the band and set out my ideas for the portraits.
Short of locations in a modern hotel, we opted for a series of photos on the grass outside, trying to get over the T in the Park idea of being out in the green of the country.
After 15 mins of joking around and throwing teacups, I decided to take the guys into a conference room at the back of the hotel.
It seemed perfect for a contrasting image of a 'we mean business' idea.
When all four started drawing the T in the Park words the picture was complete.
Later, after travelling onto the Metrorock festival with the band, discussing the World Cup and Big Brother, I prepared for the set.
It’s a weird experience seeing the band get ready, they seemed so relaxed about the show - even taking time to book plane tickets for their families before the action.
Following the band on stage was amazing, their energy and love for what they are doing really shows.
It’s rare as a photographer that you have the chance to see the action from backstage, it’s usually three songs from the front and then you're out.
As the guys blasted their was through a 1 hour 30 mins set, I became aware of how fortunate I was to be in this position, looking out at 25,000 people, loving the music, and getting some great pics.
After the show and a few beers it was time to say goodbye, a fantastic day which will be with me for a long, long time.
Phil Wilkinson with Alex Kapranos after the show!
EXTRA!
See more pics of Franz Ferdinand
here and listen to our exclusive podcast interview with band members Alex Kapranos and Bob Hardy
here!
