Elaine Tantra: Capturing Asia's Music Scene with Atarashii Gakko! and 88Rising

Elaine TantraPhoto byElaine Tantra

In July 2024, Elaine took on the official photographer and videographer role for the Japanese girl group Atarashii Gakko! (AG!) during their inaugural Asia tour. The tour included six performances in bustling cities such as Seoul, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Taipei, and Singapore, establishing Elaine as a prominent figure in Asia's music scene. Her strong work ethic and ability to produce high-quality content quickly became defining aspects of the tour. Renowned for her rapid turnaround, she delivered photos on the same night as each show and created a full recap video just two days after the tour ended, all while maintaining the quality and artistry of her work. This speed, combined with her keen attention to detail, made her an exceptional collaborator.

A standout moment was Elaine's knack for capturing the vibrant energy of Suzuka, one of AG! 's lively members. Suzuka's energetic performances involved frequent interactions with fans, and Elaine consistently documented these spontaneous, joyful moments with accuracy night after night.

Elaine's contributions went beyond just the concerts. She also provided striking photos during the group's meet and greets, winning over fans who valued the clarity and emotion she captured, even under tight deadlines. Atarashii Gakko!, aligned with 88Rising, is part of a more extensive network of Asian and Asian-American artists that Elaine has collaborated with throughout her career. Her portfolio includes partnerships with other notable 88Rising artists, such as Stephanie Poetri and Warren Hue. She documented the well-known Head In The Clouds festival in 2022 and 2023, highlighting performances by Poetri, Warren Hue, Grentperez, and Lyn Lapid.

Photo byElaine Tantra

Beyond festival coverage, Elaine has chronicled significant events for 88Rising artists worldwide. She captured Warren Hue's Party In West show in Jakarta, Indonesia, and photographed Stephanie Poetri's opening acts for Lyn Lapid in Los Angeles and eaJ in San Francisco. Her collaboration with Poetri extended to creating social media content for her song promotions, demonstrating her adaptability as a creative.

Elaine also works with artists beyond the 88Rising roster. Most recently, she joined Grentperez on his 2024 Asia tour, further broadening her impact within the Asian music landscape.

Reflecting on her experience, Elaine notes that many Asian and Asian-American artists have sought her out and welcomed her as an essential part of their creative teams. Her role behind the camera has become vital in their storytelling, helping them connect more profoundly with their audiences. Elaine is now deeply integrated into the vibrant community of Asian artists, both in Asia and internationally, where her creative influence continues to expand.

Based in Los Angeles and originally from Jakarta, Indonesia, Elaine Tantra is a music photographer and videographer recognized for her swift turnaround and emotionally compelling visuals. She has worked with prominent artists, including the Jonas Brothers, IU, Kyuhyun, Atarashii Gakko!, and 88Rising artists like Stephanie Poetri and Warren Hue. Elaine's portfolio encompasses tours across North America and Asia, playing a vital role in promoting artists like Andi through effective social media content. Currently pursuing a graduate degree in Digital Social Media at USC, Elaine continues influencing the music industry through her creative storytelling.