IN THE PIT: THE BEST OF 2025

W: Bertie Jackson

The energy of 2025 was defined by the chaos of the front row, and our "In The Pit" series was there to capture every sweat-drenched, high-voltage second. This year, live music photography transcended mere documentation, evolving into a raw, unfiltered art form that brought the pulse of the underground directly to the page. From the visceral mosh pits of Hellfest to the neon-soaked euphoria of the Manchester Psychedelic Festival, the photographers featured in our roundup didn’t just take pictures; they bottled the lightning of a live set. We’ve seen a shift toward the "beautiful chaos," where the grit of the venue meets the precision of the lens, proving that the most iconic moments often happen in the split second between a power chord and a stage dive.

This year’s roundup celebrates the titans behind the shutter who spent their nights navigating stage blacks and security guards to find the perfect frame. We spotlight the rising stars who have redefined the "ASBO style"—a blend of street-level authenticity and cinematic flair. Whether it was capturing the intimate intensity of Slipknot or the global spectacle of Boomtown, these photographers proved that the pit is more than a workspace; it’s a sanctuary for the rebellious spirit of the UK’s creative scene. As we look ahead to 2026, we salute those who continue to risk their gear and their hearing to ensure that the spirit of live music remains immortalized in all its raucous, unpolished glory.