Photographing the Queen – Mary J. Blige at North Sea Jazz

Photographing Mary J. Blige at North Sea Jazz was unforgettable, and not just because of her legendary status. From the moment she stepped on stage, the entire venue screamed their lungs out. The crowd went wild. Honestly… so did I. But I had to stay focused and get the shots.

While I didn’t have a photo pit pass this time, I did have full access to bring my camera across the festival grounds. That meant photographing the show from within the crowd — no 'three songs, no flash' rule, just the freedom to capture the entire performance. Sure, it was a challenge to work from within the packed crowd, especially with multiple cameras, but it gave me the freedom to shoot the entire set. And when it’s Mary J. Blige on stage, every minute counts.

She opened the night in a stunning all-white outfit: sleek white pants, glossy high-heeled boots, matching lacquered gloves, a fitted top, and a dramatic hooded cape draped over her long, curled hair. She even wore sunglasses at first — as if to remind us she doesn’t just step on stage, she arrives. Regal, radiant — like she knew she was about to own that stage. And she did.

After the first few songs, she left the stage for a quick change — and returned in a black glittering mini dress that caught every beam of light. Another look, another moment. A reminder that a Mary J. Blige show is more than just a concert — it’s a statement.

The setlist was a blend of timeless hits and newer anthems, all sung back word-for-word by an audience that clearly grew up with her music. From front to back, the show was electric: powerful dancers, flawless lighting, a phenomenal live band, and at the center of it all, Mary J. Blige — the undisputed Queen of Hip-Hop Soul and R&B.

There’s something special about photographing an icon. You’re not just capturing a moment — you're freezing history. And for one night in Rotterdam, we all got to witness greatness.

Thank you, Mary. 👑

Concert photography