Elaine Tantra: A Prominent Star In Music Photography And Videography

Elaine Tantra’s journey from Jakarta, Indonesia, to Los Angeles has been nothing short of remarkable. A talented music photographer and videographer, Elaine has swiftly made a name for herself in the music industry. After moving to the U.S. to study film production at Emerson College in Boston, her passion for visual media truly flourished during her time in the school’s LA program.

This experience laid the groundwork for her thriving career in music and visual storytelling. Following her graduation in 2022, Elaine took advantage of the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program to remain in the U.S., where she has worked with both emerging and established musicians, steadily building an impressive portfolio.

One of Elaine’s most significant moments came when she had the opportunity to photograph and shoot videos for the Jonas Brothers during their Jakarta, Indonesia show on The Tour. This opportunity held personal significance for Elaine, as it marked her first international gig, and it was a full-circle moment—working with a major artist she had admired growing up in her hometown.

IMAGE: ELAINE TANTRA

True to her reputation for efficiency and quality, Elaine provided the Jonas Brothers with high-quality photos and videos on the same night, allowing the band to quickly engage with fans after the show. Her ability to deliver in a fast-paced environment without compromising quality has become a signature of her work.

Elaine has also been fortunate to work on some of the biggest music video sets in her career, collaborating with renowned directors Drew Kirsch and Kai Saul. Drew Kirsch, whose award-winning work with Taylor Swift includes a VMA award, first connected with Elaine in 2022 when she shadowed him on the set of YG and Tyga’s “Run” music video.

This experience led to a continued partnership, and in 2023, Elaine joined Kirsch again—this time as his behind-the-scenes photographer on the set of a PetSmart commercial starring Lucy Hale.

Elaine’s network expanded further when she met Kai Saul, the director of photography on the YG and Tyga set. Kai Saul, known for his cinematography work for renowned artists like Shawn Mendes and 5 Seconds of Summer, as well as for the film A Man Called Otto, brought a wealth of experience to the project.

A few months later, Elaine found herself working on Beyoncé’s set, where she gained invaluable insights into high-profile productions. These experiences not only broadened Elaine’s expertise but also solidified her reputation as a trusted and talented photographer and videographer in the industry.

Elaine’s story is one of passion, dedication, and a deep connection to her roots. Her work continues to elevate her profile, and her journey from Jakarta to Los Angeles is a testament to her ambition and talent in the ever-evolving world of music and visual media.