Music photography is becoming an increasingly challenging field — limited opportunities, growing restrictions from artists, and a lack of feedback and community collaboration.

That’s why, together with the production team of Colours of Ostrava, we decided to create an opportunity for a wider group of photographers. We want to open the door to those who have potential but need guidance, support, and the chance to capture the festival through their own perspective.

Feedback and community have always helped us grow the most. That’s why we’re looking for photographers we can support in developing their craft — and who want to inspire each other along the way.

WHO IS BEHIND THE PROJECT

Zdenko Hanout (Head of Photography)

He has been actively working in photography for more than 25 years, focusing on concert, festival and documentary photography.

During his career, he accompanied Ennio Morricone on a European tour and Priscilla Presley on the Elvis in Concert – Live on Screen tour. He has also photographed artists such as Jessie J, Alicia Keys, Grace Jones, Rammstein and Metallica, and worked on international productions including Space Station Earth in collaboration with ESA, PlayStation: The Concert and Our Planet Live in Concert narrated by David Attenborough.

He is also involved in theatre, opera and musical productions. He has been photographing the Colours of Ostrava festival since 2008 and now shares his experience through Colours Photo Academy.

Michal Augustini (Chief Photographer)

A lifestyle and music photographer who has been based in London for more than 10 years.

He photographs everything from club gigs, DJ shows and raves to arena and stadium concerts featuring artists such as The Rolling Stones, Justice, AC/DC, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Robbie Williams. His work has been published in Rolling Stone, NME, The Guardian and other outlets. From his own experience, he knows how important quality feedback and a supportive community can be for photographers who want to grow.

In addition to photography, Michal also works professionally in personal development and AI training.

DALŠÍ ČLENOVÉ VÝBĚROVÉHO TÝMU

Pavla Slivová

Since 2009, she has been part of the Colours of Ostrava festival team as Head of Booking & Artist Liaison, working closely with international agencies and artists. During the festival, her domain is the backstage area behind the main stage.

She also actively represents the festival on the international scene, regularly speaking at industry panels and conferences across Europe. She is an active member of Yourope, the association that brings together leading European festivals.

She is also behind the project Roztancuj babičku, which playfully connects generations through music and dance. When she’s not at the festival or traveling for music, you’ll most likely find her in the Beskydy Mountains, where she lives with her family — two children, her husband, two dogs and two cats, all of whom are somewhat convinced they are actually the ones running the household.

Veronika Bednářová

Since 2024, she has been leading the marketing team of Colours of Ostrava.

Throughout her marketing career, she has tackled a wide range of challenges — from beverages and electronics to insurance. But the vibrant chaos of a music festival has surpassed anything she had experienced before.

She’s not afraid of numbers, is on friendly terms with basic graphic tools, has a way with words, and has already learned a few tricks with AI. In reality, though, she rarely needs to do most of it herself — because the team handles it brilliantly, which makes her very happy.

You might also spot Veronika dancing around with a microphone as part of the band Electra5 (a subtle bit of self-promotion). And she openly admits that she can’t take photos — which is exactly why she appreciates so much when someone else can.

Filip Košťálek