Concert photography is a unique field of photography that offers the opportunity to connect with artists and provides immense satisfaction. However, like any specialized form of photography, it requires a basic understanding of its fundamentals. You might be wondering how to get started. Is it as simple as bringing your camera to a concert and taking pictures? Unfortunately, it's not that straightforward. Concert organizers usually have restrictions on image and sound recording, requiring you to obtain permission or accreditation. If you're not affiliated with a music-related newspaper or website and you're an independent photographer, the organizer may ask for your portfolio. In such cases, it's beneficial to create your own website or publish your work on social media. But at the beginning of your journey, when you don't have much to showcase, it's worth reaching out to local clubs or bands, exploring local events, and seeking initial opportunities. These smaller local concerts will also allow you to understand the specifics and challenges you may encounter at larger events.
Always remember to seek permission from the concert organizer or the band. Inquire about any conditions because artists generally prefer not to be photographed with a flash, as it can disrupt their performance. In many cases, you may only be allowed to photograph the first three songs from close proximity and then from a greater distance afterward, although this may vary. It's essential to be aware of such limitations and strictly adhere to them. Some concerts may have a designated area in front of the stage, separating it from the audience, where you'll have a set time to stay and capture photos. However, always remember that the artists are the stars, and the audience has paid to enjoy the show. Therefore, strive to be discreet, avoid obstructing the stage for the audience, and position yourself in a way that doesn't steal the spotlight.
Pay attention to other photographers as well. Typically, you'll try to capture photos from different locations to cover each artist. Collaborate with fellow photographers or, at the very least, avoid hindering their work. Remember, you might encounter them at another event. When attending a concert as a photographer, I always strive to be inconspicuous, not only through my behavior but also through my attire. I don't want to stand out from the crowd, and unless required by the organizer, I dress appropriately for the type of concert I'm attending. For a metal event, I might wear a black band t-shirt and boots, but for a jazz concert where seating is available, I might opt for a shirt or a blazer.
So, now that you have permission to photograph, before preparing your equipment, I usually try to familiarize myself with the artists. I listen to their music, watch videos of their concerts, which allows me to envision what to expect. It's also essential, if possible, to gather information about the concert venue. Are there any YouTube videos showcasing the location? Are there any photos available from previous concerts? This will help you choose shooting locations and visualize the lighting and overall conditions in the venue. When watching videos of past performances, I always look for recurring patterns, interesting behaviors, and memorable moments during specific songs or parts of the performance. It could be an intriguing play of light or a captivating interaction with the audience.
Once we're familiar with the repertoire and the faces of the artists, we're ready to prepare our equipment. We'll discuss this in the next article. If you have any questions, feel free to join the discussion.
Seb from BLKCorner
My concert photo gear choice:
In the next article, we will delve deeper into the equipment needed for concert photography. We will discuss each essential component and begin the preparations. Join us as we explore the tools of the trade that every concert photographer should have in their arsenal. From cameras and lenses to lighting equipment and accessories, we'll cover everything you need to capture stunning moments on stage. Stay tuned for valuable insights and tips on how to gear up for a successful concert photography experience
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