Photographer Geloy Concepcion has come along way. From his early start as a street artist to his best-known image series, Things You Wanted to Say But Never Did, Concepcion has always wielded the visual as his ideal means of connection. But on October 221 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, he found himself backstage at the inaugural Filipino Music Awards (FMAs) to capture iconic moments beyond the mainstage.
The FMAs honored the very best in the music industry, making history as one of the country’s highest recognitions of musical excellence. The ceremony showcased the undeniable range and talent of artists across a variety of genres, and while the awards ceremony unfolded on the mainstage, Concepcion spent the evening roaming the hallways of MOA Arena. As he took intimate snapshots of high-profile guests, often away from the stage’s bright lights, he captured the vibrant energy that made for a memorable night.
“Siyempre, masaya ako,” Concepcion told Rolling Stone Philippines, “dahil nga rin na kakilala ko rin naman ‘yong mga artista, mga banda, o mga musicians. Pero alam mo ‘yun, I just needed to document the day.”
Concepcion described how the loose and free-spirited the energy of the artists was behind the stage. “[Sinubukan] ko makuha ‘yong mga feeling na mahirap makunan ng iba. Parang ako lang ang nakakakita, at lahat sama-sama sa isang malaking party.” He also noted that his favorite moment of the night was capturing SB19 posing with their trophies backstage.
“Nagpopose sila ng mga kalolokan,” said Concepcion.
