By Amy Howe
Jeremy Scherle’s path into music photography wasn’t planned.
“I never intended to be a photographer,” Jeremy, who is from Joplin, shares. Yet, today, he’s known for capturing the raw, unfiltered essence of life on the road for musicians—a skill that sets him apart from others in the field. His journey is a testament to the idea that sometimes the best opportunities arise from unexpected circumstances.
Jeremy’s story begins not with a lifelong passion for photography, but with a pivotal event: the Joplin tornado in May 2011. “I was just documenting what I saw,” he recalls. His images of the tornado’s aftermath were powerful enough to warrant a self-published photo book, which he sent to Allan Tannenbaum, a renowned photographer who has captured some of the most iconic moments in music history. “I got a postcard back from Tannenbaum saying he thought my work was great and gave me a referral to someone at Polaris Images that might be useful to me,” Jeremy says, “but I just sat on it for nearly 10 years.”
Instead of immediately pursuing photography of artists and events, Jeremy spent time working at a radio station as the station photographer, where he learned the importance of networking with publicists, agents and bands. This experience, combined with his growing interest in photography, eventually led him to start his business, Jeremy Scherle Productions and Regional Entertainment.
Jeremy’s first experience as an event photographer was a mix of excitement and unexpected challenges. “Back in 2011, flip phones were still considered high-tech, and a 5-megapixel camera was top of the line,” he laughs. He spent countless hours trying to make the most of the rudimentary equipment available at the time.
One of the biggest challenges he faced was breaking into the tightly knit world of event photography.
“When you’re in a photo pit, some photographers won’t even talk to you,” Jeremy recalls. “There’s a lot of ego in this field, but you can’t let that stop you. You just have to keep networking and building relationships.”
His advice to aspiring photographers is simple yet profound: “Never think there’s not room for you. Every photographer will get different angles and shots, but your photo might just be the one that gets picked.”
Jeremy’s career might have started by accident, but his success has been built on the relationships he’s cultivated along the way. Over the years, he’s developed close friendships with many of the artists and bands he photographs, especially The Boxmasters.
“They’ve been more than just subjects— they’re mentors and friends,” Jeremy says. “Working with bands, you develop friendships that most people don’t get to experience. Whether it’s the venue staff, publicists or the band members themselves, they like you, and they keep inviting you back. It’s all about the networking.”
One of the most memorable moments in Jeremy’s early career was photographing Paul McCartney at the BOK Center in Tulsa. “That was a game-changer for me,” Jeremy remembers. It was at this event that he met Vernon Gowdy III, an Oklahoma legend who provided invaluable advice on copyright, licensing and contracts. “Vernon really helped shape my perspective on the business side of photography,” he says.
Throughout his career, Jeremy has had the opportunity to photograph a variety of legendary artists, bands and events, including Sammy Hagar, The Doobie Brothers, Willie Nelson, Collective Soul, Andy Dick, Dogstar, Quiet Riot, multiple Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl parades and countless others. “Each experience is unique,” he notes. “You learn something new every time.”
As Jeremy’s career has evolved, so has his approach to photography. “The industry changes so fast,” he notes. “You’re always learning something new, whether it’s technology or different tactics for getting the shot you want.” Despite the rapid changes, Jeremy remains grounded in his original passion for capturing the real, unglamorous moments of life on the road. “It’s those candid, behind-the-scenes moments that really tell the story,” he says.
Looking to the future, Jeremy is excited about exploring new directions in his work. “I haven’t used a mirrorless camera yet, but it’s on my bucket list,” he shares. He’s also interested in focusing more on selling signed prints and possibly setting up his work in a gallery to showcase his accomplishments. Unlike many photographers, Jeremy doesn’t mass-produce his images. “I usually just create a handful of prints that I have signed,” he explains, “making each one a unique piece of art.” During the holiday season, he donates signed prints to local non-profit events, giving back to the community that has supported him throughout his career.
When asked if he would do anything differently, Jeremy’s response is characteristically grounded. “Camera equipment wasn’t great when I started, but you can’t change that. What really made the difference was networking,” he reflects. It’s clear his success has been shaped by the relationships he’s built, the opportunities he’s created and the passion he has developed along the way.
An interesting twist in Jeremy’s story is his future aspirations—he’s considering running for governor of Missouri in 2028 as an independent. “I know it sounds crazy, but it’s something I’ve thought about for a while,” he admits with a grin. For someone who’s built a career on unexpected opportunities, it seems perfectly fitting.
In the end, Jeremy Scherle’s story is a testament to the power of following your passions, even when they lead you down an unplanned path. “Every day is a learning experience,” he says. “You just have to be open to where life takes you.”
Whether he’s behind the camera or perhaps one day on the campaign trail, Jeremy continues to capture life’s most authentic moments, one shot at a time.
For more information about Jeremy Scherle and to see his additional work, you can find him on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube by searching Jeremy Scherle Productions.
“Never think there’s not room for you. Every photographer will get different angles and shots, but your photo might just be the one that gets picked.” – Jeremy Scherle