CONCERT PHOTOGRAPHY 101 : Photo Credentials
Feb 15, 2010 Concert Photography, Photography Discussion
In the first two parts of my Concert Photography 101 Series (Getting Started & Basic Camera Settings) we discussed the basics of Concert Photography. I have received numerous emails asking how do you get your equipment into the venue.
[In my opinion concert venues have a skewed idea of the professional camera. Locally, venues define a professional camera as a camera with detachable lenses. Ridiculous, but that's another post for another day.]
There are many photo friendly venues here in the Phoenix area. Before you attempt to take photos from the photo pit start at the bar / nightclub level. Talk to the band and get their permission and then fire away. Hone your chops and get really good at taking music photographs. It will save you a lot of frustration, headache and disappointment.
Once you feel confident about you photography skills I would try to align myself with a local publication (either print or online.) If you are successful at aligning yourself with the press – you will have no problems getting photo passes and most of the time you will not even have to make the request. Make sure you honor any commitments you make regarding deadlines – if you lose credibility with the photo editor you will not be sent out to cover an event again.
Freelancing is a little different. Before you contact a band’s publicist (HINT HINT – who to contact for credentials) make sure you have a professional portfolio. A professional presence will increase, but not guarantee your chances of gaining access to the photo pit. I spent a lot of time developing my website (through Photoshelter) to the have necessary online portfolio presence. (www.grtaylor2photo.com)
If all else fails – ask someone at the venue. Try and go back by the buses and ask to speak to the tour manager. There is a slight chance he may override the venue rules and allow you inside to photograph the show from the crowd. This situation may not be ideal but it’s better than not getting a chance to shoot the show.
Recap of Tips For Photo Credentials
1. Make sure you have the portfolio to back up your request
2. Align yourself with a local publication
3. Get creative – ask the the tour manager the night of the show
4. Honor all deadlines and commitments
5. Have fun – you may have the best seats in the house for at least three songs
Did I leave anything out? Let me know how you have been successful gaining access to photograph concerts?
To view my complete photography portfolio please visit www.grtaylor2photo.com
Tags: arizona photgrapher, az photographer, concert photo, Concert Photography, getting photo credentials, live music, Marquee Theater, music photography, photo credentials, photo how to, photo passes, professional photographer, professional photography, Randy Rogers Band, RCPM, tempe, tempe photographer
February 16th, 2010 at 2:12 pm
Thanks Greg for a timely post!
I’m just starting out in music photography (live shoots and portrait shoots) and am at the portfolio building stage. Only when I’m happy with the quantity and quality, will I start approaching publications.
I intend to spend this year working for mutual benefit (ie; free, I get opportunities to build a portfolio, the bands and venues get a set of images) then I can take it from there whilst holding down the daytime job.
I’m covering everything from theatres to poorly lit dives for the experience.
When you got started, how difficult did you find it to get a publication to back you?
I’m finding that 90% don’t reply, 5% say thanks but no thanks and the other 5% comes from a little persistence without being too pushy.
Any tips on how to approach publications, as in how to word it?
Thanks again for a great post!
Steve in Bonny Scotland.
February 16th, 2010 at 2:30 pm
I’ve been exactly where you are – I’ve shot more shows in dive bars with terrible lighting than I care to remember. I admire your walking before running with building a portfolio that you are proud of before putting it out there.
The best way to get in with the publications is by networking. A handful of times someone has responded to me because I reached out to them but more often than not a referral into the pub is what is needed. In my opinion the keys to getting in with music publications is having a solid body or work (experience), being persistent and/or a referral. Don’t be afraid to contact the photo editor more than once – at least you’ll demonstrate your passion for your craft. Thanks for the comment – GRT2
March 19th, 2010 at 12:49 pm
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