Behind the Lens: An Interview with Paul Monahas of Pmpx Media

I conducted an interview with Photographer Paul Monahas of Pmpx Media, during which we discussed his upbringing, how he entered the field of photography, the specific areas of photography he specializes in, as well as his hobbies and interests. I hope you find this an enjoyable read.

Amit Ahuja: I would love to hear more about your background and personal journey. Tell me where you grew up and how your upbringing influenced your values and perspectives. Additionally, I’m curious about your cultural heritage and how it has shaped your identity. What specific experiences or milestones have particularly impacted who you are today?

Paul Monahas: I grew up in Lancaster Pennsylvania, a city that is the birthplace of so many amazing artists and bands! Being the home of the Chameleon club (RIP) and other great venues i was able to attend a lot of different shows in my early years and that only deepened my love for live music! Punk music really influenced my views on life both from the music and the people that it brought into my life, good and bad.

Paul Monahas: I was raised by my Papou and Yiayia (grandpa and grandma in greek) and that helped make me who I am. Things weren't always the easiest but there was a lot of love from my papou that at times felt like it held us all together. It may not sound like much but a big thing that impacted who I am was getting my first skateboard and just learning to skate with my friends, as it gave me an escape from the stresses of growing up.

Amit Ahuja: We’d love to hear the full story of how you got started in photography. What initially drew you to the camera, and how did that passion evolve into shooting concerts, events, and skateboarding? Were there any pivotal moments, influences, or challenges along the way that helped shape your unique style and focus in these areas?

Paul Monahas: I feel like I've always been around a camera, my mom loved taking photos so that's where the snowball began rolling. I started getting serious about photography around the time that I got my first skateboard because I would take photos/videos of my friends and I skating. I loved looking at all the skate magazines like Transworld and Thrasher and knew that's what I wanted to do, even though we weren't doing anything that crazy. In 2015 I got the gopro hero+ and started a YouTube channel where I would film skating, concerts, and just about anything I wanted to post. 1 year later I got the Canon T6i and took an intro photography class at my high school. I still kept up with the skateboarding photos but the more I learned I really focused on portraits, I thought that was going to be my niche. That was until September in 2018 when I offically covered my first concert gig at the Chameleon club for a local band named imbued, that shifted everything i wanted to focus on. I sadly had to restart my concert photography journey on July 1st 2024 but I came back stronger than I was before! Summer slaughter at the reverb was my first big festival I shot for thanks to CI records! I kept reaching out to more bands and venues, which lead me to the Baltimore Soundstage and I've been shooting for them since!

Amit Ahuja: Let’s start with your brand—PMPX Media. Can you tell us about the overall vision behind it? What inspired you to launch this brand, and what does it stand for creatively or professionally? We’re also curious about the name itself—“PMPX Media” is unique and memorable. Where did the idea for that name come from, and does it carry any personal meaning or significance? Was there a story, a moment, or a message that led to its creation? We'd love to hear the background behind it and how it reflects what your brand is all about.

Paul Monahas: I wanted to document the energy that you get from going to concerts through portraits of each member and as i learned more, I focused on the crowd and getting more artistic shots. I appreciate you saying that, it's actually a pretty simple idea haha, it stands for Paul Monahas Pix. I made my logo based off the NYHC (New York hardcore) logo to pay tribute to the music I love.

Amit Ahuja: Have you ever come across a photographer whose work truly resonated with you—someone whose unique perspective, storytelling, or technical mastery left such a strong impression that it inspired you to pick up a camera yourself? Was there a moment when you saw an image or a body of work that made you think, "I want to create something like this"? I'd love to hear about the photographers you looked up to, whether they were iconic figures in the industry or lesser-known artists whose vision sparked your own creative journey. What was it about their work that drew you in—was it the emotion they captured, the use of light, the composition, or perhaps the stories they told through their lens?

Paul Monahas: The first person that comes to mind when asked this question is Atiba Jefferson, I've seen his work in almost everything since I was young, between his amazing cover photos on Thrasher or his work with concerts and sports, I strive to capture moments like him. I've listened to countless interviews and stories from him and tried to gain as much knowledge as I can. Obviously, there are a lot of great photographers like Atiba but the photographers i who helped spark my creative journey are the ones I've met covering concerts. Some of my closest friends I've met from doing photography. The list would be so long if I typed all of the names out but each and every one of them has taught me something so important about growing and improving my art!

Photo Credit to Paul Monahas of Pmpx Media

Amit Ahuja: Out of all the concerts you’ve been invited to photograph, is there one that stands out as your absolute favorite? I’d love to hear about what made that particular event so special for you—whether it was the energy of the crowd, the artist’s performance, the lighting, or just the overall experience of capturing those moments.

Paul Monahas: Disturbing the peace at the Baltimore Soundstage was one of my absolute favorites so far! The line up was extremely stacked and I got to see some of my favorite bands! The energy of the bands and the crowd were unmatched! Some of my favorite photos I've taken were from that day! Not only that I got to meet some of my favorite people in my life currently! I feel with the photos I took that day really express the community and energy of what hardcore means to people, young and old!

Amit Ahuja: As a concert photographer, what message or perspective do you hope to share with the world through your work? How do you want people to feel when they see your photos, and what do you want them to understand about the experience of live music and the art of capturing those moments?

Paul Monahas: I want people to feel like they're not alone! We all share a love for this music not knowing everyones story and sometimes it bleeds into my work. I want people to see the love and community that comes from this aggressive music! The happiness, anger, sadness resonates with us all and that can be shown from how the band performs to the way people throw down in the pit, but no matter what we're all there for one reason.

Photo Credit to Paul Monahas of Pmpx Media

Amit Ahuja: For someone who is passionate about music and photography and is hoping to break into the competitive world of concert photography, what specific advice would you offer in terms of building a compelling portfolio, gaining access to events, networking with artists or promoters, and mastering the technical skills required to shoot in challenging low-light, high-motion environments?

Paul Monahas: My best advice I would give is shoot small shows before you just jump into it, you'll learn so much from doing that. When covering a concert remember you're not what people there are to see, the band is, so try to not be in the way as much as you can. With networking just be nice and approachable, nothing bothers me more than a rude or judgmental photographer in the pit, were all there to do what we love and get the best photo we can. Create connections with other artists because that will better your skills and create a lot of different opportunities you didn't know would be possible! Be professional but don't lose your passion along the way!!

Amit Ahuja: Considering the demanding nature of concert photography—marked by late nights, constant travel, loud venues, and the pressure to deliver striking, publication-worthy images consistently—how do you personally maintain your creative inspiration and avoid professional burnout over time? Are there particular habits, practices, or mindsets that help you stay grounded, motivated, and enthusiastic about your work despite the intensity of the field?

Photo Credit to Paul Monahas of Pmpx Media

Paul Monahas: For me it's a really simple answer, this is what makes life worth living. I absolutely love what I do so it never feels like a job for me! I'm also drawn to all of the chaos of the field between the intensity of the bands with the crowd, the harsh lighting im forced to work with, dodging crowd surfers and other photographers in the pit. I want to have fun with doing it while also presenting myself in a professional manner.

Amit Ahuja: In addition to your work as a concert photographer, you also focus on skateboarding photography, which is such a unique and dynamic field. Could you share what initially sparked your interest in photographing skateboarding? Was there a particular moment, influence, or experience that drew you into capturing that side of the culture?"

Paul Monahas: like I said earlier, it's actually what started this journey for me. Skateboarding has produced some of my favorite photos of all time! It is such a diverse culture honestly, each skater I've met/photographed has their own unique style that you can tell that they have worked hard on. To capture that is to give them a spotlight for all of the fails and years they put into a trick.

Amit Ahuja: In your work, what kind of artistic approach do you strive for when photographing concerts and skateboarding?

Paul Monahas: I would love to perfect what I've been doing now and that is to make the viewer feel like they were there in that moment with me and get all the emotions that the band is projecting. As for skateboarding i want to create a more dramatic and storytelling scene using different angles and a wider lens. The end goal is to capture the artists/skater's emotion in that moment.

Amit Ahuja: When you're out capturing moments, do you find yourself more drawn to taking still photographs, or do you prefer recording videos or filming scenes to better capture the atmosphere and movement? What do you enjoy more, and why?

Paul Monahas: I've wanted to branch into the world of videography but there is a peace within photography that I enjoy a little bit more. Freezing a single moment just brings more satisfaction to me because that moment won't ever happen again.

Amit Ahuja: When it comes to photography, do you find yourself more drawn to the timeless elegance and emotional depth of black-and-white images, or do you prefer the vivid realism and expressive variety offered by color photography? Why does one appeal to you more than the other?"

Paul Monahas: It really depends on the band I'm covering for that show, when it comes to hardcore shows, I love taking the black and white direction to pay tribute to the roots of hc photography and you get to really focus on the chaos and emotions! When it comes to metal, I like bringing out the color and emotions of all the changing lights and strobes! I don't know if I could choose just one honestly.

Photo Credit to Paul Monahas of Pmpx Media

Amit Ahuja: What goals are you hoping to accomplish with your photography and brand over the next two years?

Paul Monahas: My biggest goal right now is to go on a tour and work as many shows as I possibly can! I would love to get more photos published and I have plans to work on a personal zine.

Amit Ahuja: Share three individuals who have significantly influenced your life, positively or negatively, and explain why.

Paul Monahas:

#1. My papou because without his support growing up i don't think I would be where I am right now in anything I do, like art, skating, music. He pushed me to be a better person and to be kind.

#2. My best friend Gavin because we have been through so much together between life, being in multiple bands together, or just straight up hanging out, I know he's there for me!

#3. My photography teacher Mr. Bischoff because of all the knowledge I learned in his class, he would let me stay in the photo room to edit after school so I could work on more projects and pushed me to do better.

Amit Ahuja: When it comes to movies, what are some of your all-time favorites? What is it about these particular movies that resonates with you? Is it the storytelling, the characters, the cinematography, or something else?

Paul Monahas: I have a very long list of movies that I love but the ones that come to my mind first are Nick and Noras Infinite Playlist, Lords of Dogtown, Short Circuit, and The Neverending Story. I absolutely love romcoms no matter how good or bad they are. I am a very emotional person so when the story can make me feel a certain emotion to the fullest extent, that really sticks with me.

Amit Ahuja: As for TV shows, which ones do you find yourself eagerly tuning in to? What about these shows captivates you—could it be the plot twists, character development, or the overall production quality?

Paul Monahas: I don't watch too much TV because I normally watch skate videos, interviews, concerts, or anime. Recently I just got into The Bear, the thing that caught my eye was the way it is shot. It is shot with so many different film techniques that if you know, you can appreciate it! The character growth and personality is so comforting to watch because it feels real and relatable!

Amit Ahuja: Regarding books, which ones are at the top of your list? What makes these books stand out to you? Is it the writing style, the themes, or the emotions they evoke?

Paul Monahas: I haven't read a lot as of recently, but a series that I read the whole way through was the A Court of Thorns and Roses. I will admit the first book wasn't my favorite but once you get to book 2 that's when everything picks up! The storytelling and world building was the thing that kept me reading, i am a huge fan of fantasy books and movies!

Amit Ahuja: What’s your go-to comfort food after a long day?

Paul Monahas: A sausage, egg, and cheese sandwich

Amit Ahuja: If your life had a theme song right now, what would it be?

Paul Monahas: It would definitely be Art School Wannabe by Sorority Noise

Amit Ahuja: If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Paul Monahas: Don't let yourself get so caught up in what other people think about you.

Amit Ahuja: What’s something most people misunderstand about your journey or profession?

Paul Monahas: You're not going to get into this field and start making a lot of money. From my experience there will be times when you question if you can keep up with the costs between camera gear, gas, tickets (if the artist or venue doesn't supply it) and that can really drag you down.

Amit Ahuja: What’s an intriguing, lesser-known aspect of your life that would leave people astonished, perhaps something unexpected that reveals a unique facet of your personality or experiences?

Paul Monahas: I'm a pretty simple guy honestly haha I might have to get back to you on that one! I wear all of my passions on my sleeve so I'm pretty forward with every aspect of my life!

Amit Ahuja: What’s been one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced, and how did you overcome it?

Paul Monahas: I have always struggled with my mental health, so I don't necessarily handle situations the best and losing my papou to cancer was the biggest challenge I faced in my life because it broke me to the point where I felt like i didn't want to go on. There are still times where I still get down about it, but I know if he was here, he'd be so proud of what I've accomplished and what I'm capable of! I push through the struggle and continue doing what I love because that's what he did with his tailoring till the end!

Amit Ahuja: I'd love to know which bands or music artists you're really passionate about. Additionally, could you share the story of the most unforgettable concert you've attended? Tell me everything—what the vibe was like, how the performance felt, what the venue was, and any little details that made it a standout experience for you."

Paul Monahas: It's so hard for me to pick one band Because I have an artist for each emotion haha but a really meaningful band to me is A Day to Remember! My whole top part of my sleeve on my right arm is my favorite adtr albums! I feel like if there was ever a movie written about me most of the soundtrack would be from them! I still have yet to do photos of them, but they are on my bucket list and I'm hoping to hear back from them about this September! They are a band I've seen the most because at their shows I can mosh, cry, sing along with the other fans and take in all of the energy around me! It's not necessary a concert but Welcome to Rockville in Florida was unforgettable to me! It had such an amazing line up the year I went! Running between the different stages across the Dayton speedway just to catch my favorite band added so much to the experience. With so many people who love the same music surrounding you is one of the most beautiful things you can feel in this life and Welcome to Rockville had that energy to it!

Amit Ahuja: If you could swap your current career for any other, what dream job would you dive into?

Paul Monahas: I would probably dive into the world of audio engineering, I feel like I've can't escape the world of music haha it's really my driving force in this life.

Amit Ahuja: Are there any particular hobbies, passions, or interests outside of your involvement with photography that really energize or excite you—things that you love to spend time on or that bring you a sense of purpose or joy when you're not immersed in your musical pursuits?

Paul Monahas: Outside of music and skateboarding I really enjoy spending time with my closest friends and my cat, Bean. Going to the gym and boxing are a huge driving force in my life too, I try to stay fit even with picky eating habits.

Amit Ahuja: How have you managed your mental health challenges? Share any strategies, coping mechanisms, or support systems that have helped you.

Paul Monahas: I'm going to be honest with you; I still struggle every day. The thing that keeps me going is my passions. You can't lose grip of that or else everything crumbles around you! Reach out to someone who you trust, it's never okay to let it bottled up. Whenever I start to doubt myself, I look back at where I began and know that there is change even if its small! Don't compare yourself to others either, we all have our strengths and weaknesses, I have to remind myself about that a lot!

Amit Ahuja: What advice would you give to others your age dealing with similar mental health issues?

Paul Monahas: There's still time to figure things out! It is okay to fail but you need to keep trying no matter what. If you need to restart your life for the better, DO IT!

Amit Ahuja: What message would you share with everyone if you had the world's attention for five minutes?

Paul Monahas: We need to stop with all the hate! In times like this we need unity more than anything, and I know that's not fully possible, but we need to at least try! No matter your race, gender, age, social status, it doesn't matter we are all human! Make a change no matter how big or small, it starts in your community!

Amit Ahuja: We extend our sincere gratitude to Paul Monahas of Pmpx Media for sharing his story with us today.

Photographer Paul Monahas of Pmpx Media

For additional works by Paul Monahas of Pmpx Media, please visit his Linktree below:

https://linktr.ee/PMPXMedia?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafsBoijo4bQYSDPG0QQyL0PCEpTQ9eeZwhDsJoaaGM7qR4i0PaqvteQyqYgow_aem_JWWyQjV5apuKEvIvnSI0cA

*** All images are the property of Photographer Paul Monahas of Pmpx Media, unless otherwise specified.**