Here is a recap of my Concert Photography 101 series and links to older posts. Music and photography are my two biggest passions – no wonder I am so passionate about music photography.

Getting Started taking Concert Photos: The equipment needed to produce quality live music photos (click for post)
Basic Camera Settings for Concert Photos: I discuss my baseline camera settings for concerts. Also, discussed is ISO and various lenses. (click for post)
Photo Credentials: This was no doubt the most anticipated part of the Concert Photography Series. What is needed before you request photo credentials. (click for post)

What am I missing? Please let me know what else you want to know about taking Concert Photos. I am willing to post and share whatever knowledge I have – so please post a comment with questions or suggestions.

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