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This is one of the best videos on concert photography that I have come across in years, and I've been in this game for... let's just say a long time. I ESPECIALLY appreciated the details on the contracts and limitations on shooting mainstream artists & venues, and cannot agree more whole-heartedly that the local scene is where it is at 99.9% of the time. YES, it's very cool to have a famous name in your portfolio, but those shows are WAY, WAY (let me emphasize WAY one more time) less fun than being up-close and intimate with artists and their fans in small situations. The downside there is that lighting can be absolutely brutal - literally, the most challenging of any photography environment, and equipment IS a factor. I have a lot of respect and appreciation for fans that show up with an SLR camera, with or without a flash, dreaming about capturing the epic shot of the night, but it's a simple matter of science that older cameras perform poorly in low-light conditions, and flash photography is a fine art of its own, that even the most experienced in the business can struggle with in an otherwise poorly lit room full of people thrashing about. My approach personally was A) exactly as the video explains - consider it a hobby, not a profession. and B) Use the photos as journalism, covering the local scene, connecting with fans, hyping shows both past and present, and using social media as a place to interact, not just broadcast. Since the end of the pandemic, I have taken over 100,000 photos exclusively in Portland, OR, published a few hundred features, and developed a local reputation, yet have only recently started to receive paid opportunities, and I still see those as a way to help pay for new equipment rather than a means to pay the rent. It's a labor of love, and a very challenging one at that, but a way to contribute to the local music scene authentically, without having to master a musical instrument. I will also note that I used to take pics of very well-known celebrities, from Kanye West to Taylor Swift (while they were fueding), but my salary came from marketing services more generally, managing their websites, handling fans, ticketing, online merch sales, and all the rest. Photography was just a slice of what I was paid to provide, even though it was my favorite aspect of the experience. If you want to make money with your camera, shoot weddings. Maybe professional headshots. If you want to live the rock & roll dream, stay local and do it for the love (as most of those musicians do themselves.) If you think shooting a famous person at stadium show is the pinacle of the art, I wish you the best of luck in achieving that goal, and have no doubt that you'll find yourself appreciating what might have been waiting for your in your own back yard the whole time. Great video, and right on the mark. Cheers, y'all!
My high school years, roughly the early 80’s, I was sneaking my camera into shows and almost getting thrown out for concert photography. I made it to the front row many times. VH, the Police, Asia, Priest, Bowie, U2, etc… all as a hobby! Some shots came out pretty good for a 15 year old using 400 ASA film on a completely manual Canon AE1. Photos are all mine, never published. Love your work, BTW.
It's nice to see a behind the scenes look at concert photography. A guy I knew that used to run a local music equipment store in my hometown who had a side gig as a driver for musicians. The stories he would tell were eye opening and sometimes hilarious.
If you want to start photograph and take shots of bands, start out by going to DIY shows that have bands you like. Being a photographer for 10 years from the Midwest, I've met bands and was able to bring my camera gears and take pictures of artists I really enjoy.
Great job, Luke! I began shooting in the Seattle area for about a year and a half now and this was a perfect on-point video. I've been watching your videos since 2015 and this was just what I needed to see. Local bands have been very appreciative of my work and I'm currently still building something here. I've been quite fortunate meeting a lot of awesome people but have also had my fair share with toxic people too. I know the road is rough but it's one I'm willing to take. -Max from Seattle
Great video, Luke! 👍🏿 The incels you mentioned reminded me of the movie _Nightcrawler_ where Jake Gyllenhaal plays a (violently) competitive paparazzo who starts committing crime just to get good footage. Thanks for making this primer about both the good and the bad in the industry.
I've been doing concert photography for the Jacksonville, Florida punk and metal scenes for 3 years now. Every piece of advice in this video is pure gold and truly eye-opening! I can't stress enough the importance of starting small with photography at local shows. Start with equipment you can afford, and don’t hesitate to pick up gear from places like Best Buy. A personal rule of thumb I've always followed: if it doesn't feel right in your hands, don't use it. Here's hoping that one of these days, I get to shoot at some of the bigger festivals!
As a hobby photographer, I really appreciate this kind of video. I'd love to shoot a concert someday and this gave a lot of insight into this field. Thanks, Rocked.
Great information. I’ve been shooting concerts in Houston for about 10 years. I shoot mostly local bands, but I have shot national acts. In my experiences I enjoy the local shows much more. You were 100% on point that local bands appreciate your work more than any national band. They also ask you to work their shows and you get paid more often than not. Would love to see you do a more in-depth video on your experiences.
This video was killer and I second all of it! Don’t be discouraged though friends. if this is something you wanna do, start small, build a portfolio, network and most importantly, be cool to everyone you meet and be a good hang.
Speaking as somebody who's been wanting to add concert photography as another string to my bow, this video was helpful in a lot of ways. I'm not sure what the rules are for concert photography over here in the UK and Ireland, although I can imagine that they're similar to how things work in the States. Thanks for the heads up and warnings, although they certainly won't deter from pursuing this outlet.
I appreciate this video. Concert photography is something I want to get into for sure, simply for the love of music and shooting photos. It’s just been hard for me to find the door. You’ve definitely given me some good tips that I hope can help me get in with the right people!
Hey mate, nice vid. I've been into photography since about 6 years now, and I'm into concert photography since last year (I've shot about 6 concerts or fests and more than 20 bands or artists). Just recently I started getting paid for it (we're talking small bands, also I'm in Venezuela so not a lot of pay to ask for, for obvious reasons). Mostly it's been pretty good, you get to know a lot of artists and have a great time. In my case I've been the main photographer for the whole gig and I kinda know what a musician would like to see of themselves. The main issue i've had is bad lights or really small spaces with lots of crowd. Lots of purple and red lights. Also I use a 2012 Olympus E-M5 with a 70s Helios 44-2 and some other vintage lenses. Gear doesn't matter that much if you know how to use your tools. And yeah, I've also suffered the 'really?' sights when I bring out my small camera with small lens. But I think I get better results than local concert photographers even though I don't use the latest Sony gear and such lmao. Anyway, I wanted to ask... Why do you hold your lenses like that? (Hand over the lens I mean). I've always held my lenses from down under and you get a lot of stability (but if you're using fast shutter speed I guess it doesn't matter). Have you noticed any differences in this matter?
It's crazy how much has changed in the biz. I started out as a teen in LA assisting Ross Halfin and Neil Zlozower in 92 and those were the 120 film days. They hardly need assistants for anything now. My first skill was reloading Mamiya backs in under 20 seconds for studio shoots and not screwing up and loading BW instead of color transparency (might've done that a time or two). No more lab runs, contact sheets or light tables.
I used to do a lot of gig photography for local bands where I live, however nothing to this level, I think my main issue was I never put my name out there to build up a portfolio. I eventually stopped around the pandemic but when I look at my collection on Facebook I'm proud of what i achieved.
So glad I’m not doing this today. I did some concert photography in the 70s for a large city daily. Totally different world back then when press credentials enabled almost unlimited access, no releases, weren’t treated like a pariah by the minimal security, etc. My hat’s off to you for persevering will all the BS you have to deal with.
As someone who is taking a Digital Photography class in college right now, I find this video very interesting and I'm going to show my photography professor this video.
I've been a concert photographer for 5 years now, I'm lucky to work for an outlet that has easy access to concerts (radio station) and there is a very polite and helping community with all the photographers from the city I'm in (San Diego) but I have had experiences with other photographers being rude from outside the city or when I go and cover shows in Los Angeles. I have noticed that most of the Release Forms come from the older acts and most of from soundboard so I've been avoiding those recently. This video was very informative and already sharing it with people that want to get into concert photography, I do it for the love of it as it's a "perk" at my job to do it, it's not payed. Hope to share the photo pit with you someday and shoot a festival outside my state.
Maybe another video for people wanting to start that covers things like. What is important for your equipment starting out? What would programs and general tips for photo editing? A tip for people working on their SEO (I work in digital marketing). H1 & Meta tags are key and don't forget to write tags for your images, it isn't just about the words on the page (although they are import.
I’ve been in the events industry for just over 11 years now, and I can honestly say he’s 100% correct when saying it’s drive, networking, paying your dues and luck all mixed together. I started out djing, and audio mixing, then took on event management and operations management for different production companies. Now my current company I got thrown a camera in my hand and now I’m shooting artists like deadmou5. Moral of the story, follow your dreams… I promise they will take you places you never thought possible.
Thank you for this helpful video. Have been into concert/event photography for 2y now. Rough hits the nail on the head. Artists who want to edit the (already nicely done) photos themselves, only few nice words and feedback, I already had a creative burnout last year...ending up starting again but being more aware what I want to achieve. I turn down offers when I know lighting will be bad or if too far away for me to reach easily....I am not giving more than I can expect to get back, your photos will be taken for granted anyway. I am a bit disheartened but still love the challenge of ever-changing stage situations and artistic expressions.
As an aspiring concert photographer. I greatly appreciate this video Luke! Thank you so much for all The content you provide us & all the hard work that goes into this. It’s greatly appreciated!!
I just like taking pictures and videos with my phone to provide some documentation of all the shows I go to. I like how doing it for fun keeps me out of this kind of drama, where the only things I have to worry about are tall people not getting in the way, not getting hit by the pit, and the lighting not being too bright or dark for my phone to pick up.
Yeah sort of likewise however would be cool to shoot on some better gear. In this case I've gone and invested in a Sony RX100 so I can get better zoom quality however didn't take it to a gig last night to avoid any issues as it was a new venue for me
I was just recommended this video. Glad it showed up. I’m about to shoot my second festival ever and this was a good video to follow. Thank you for this.
Oh it's that oogly-eyed camera photographer again! (Referring to the picture of the oogly eyed camera) Also, I had no idea that there was such a limit in how many pictures you can take into the set. I originally thought you got to be there into the entire show taking shots, but three songs? wow
I shoot and write for an online music zine - thing about most arts journalism, they're almost always volunteer based. You get nothing out of this aside from being able to attend the show and then you have a nagging deadline hang over you that you're not getting paid to meet.
I started in a similar way, except I had a bridge camera and had been doing nightclub photography on the local alt. scene. Was nice to get on press lists and noticed by some labels, but I'd always make sure to chat to the venue staff as well as other togs on the event, would often make for an easier night (chatting to security would sometimes get us a little more time in the pit). If there is a band (even if they are hella small) that end up liking your work it is always worth getting in touch to see if you can perhaps cover other gigs of theirs. I ended up being buds with a band named Esoterica and managed to get involved in their live DVD because of this. Live photography might not pay in money, but the memories you can make are priceless. Oh and lastly, don't be one of those togs that brings a shit-tonne of kit. Find a set up that works for you, no more than 2 lenses and there is little to no point in bringing flash guns, 90% of the time they aren't allowed to be used and even when they are allowed you'll often find it's easier working without them. You don't want to be lumbered carrying around a bunch of stuff you'll not use, so leave them at home to lighten your load. Besides, last thing you want is said pieces of kit stolen (something I have seen happen, however that dude had it coming as he'd set up 2 remote flash guns on either side of the stage). Just keep it tight, keep it friendly... oh and be reliable. Don't sit on photos too long as then you might miss your chance to have them shared by labels or musicians, let alone get them onto a review.
Dude I didn't even know you did this! The photos in the background of your videos make more sense now lol. I shoot cars for a living (it's a marketing job but photography is the bulk of it) - compared to this it's a cakewalk. Skill is definitely more important than gear, it's not as simple as pointing and shooting. Big respect to you and all that you've accomplished!
Have a friend who's worked in concert photography for years and has only finally been moving up the ranks and joining big name rock bands on tour. She's done a ton of photo work with Nonpoint and The Tea Party, and I think she's on tour now with Godsmack as a photographer. It's a grind, but if you love it just keep at it.
I hope she never finds herself alone with Sully or at least one that can take of herself. Maybe he's changed since '06 but back then when I was only 17 he was creep. Dude didn't even bat an eye at the thought of hooking up with a teenager. I'm sure your friend is probably used to being hit on and can handle douches pretty well. I'd love to see someone with actual nerve stand up to one of these cocky Rock Stars roaches.
@@vixxxenfoxxx3660 yeah I'm no fan of Godsmack but just happy for her, and she knows how to protect herself and wouldn't give in to those creeper advances. In any case, I doubt Sully would try to hit on a girl taller than him (she's quite tall).
@@Volkaroar bwhahahahahaha....oh, that's too funny. Yeah, I was only 5'4, so you're right on the mark there. I'm so glad to here she can definitely kick some a$$, especially after hearing how nasty this field of work can be. I wish her nothing but the best of success and some epic memories made along the way.
Great overview, and full of insights that really ring true, and that I try to live by. IMHO and from my personal experience, the best take-aways are: 1/don't be a d*ck - whenever possible, be nice to everyone you encounter - this doesn't mean don't be assertive when appropriate, but be nice to everyone. 2/Hard as it might be, walk away if they want you to sign an agreement that basically renders your whole purpose for showing up useless. 3/shoot and treat new and/or local bands like they're rock stars as part of your mix-for all the reasons Rocked mentioned. Thanks, dude, for this vid!
Great video. I also fell in to concert photography and have been surprised by how quickly it snowballs. I appreciate you commenting on the sexism in the field as well. I’m a 25yo small town girl that moved from Texas to Seattle, so the culture shock is real. But I will say, I have been pleasantly surprised by the welcoming energy and the open conversation about women in the industry. It’s cut throat and rough, like you perfectly describe. It’s scary as a woman too, but there are a lot of great people pushing to keep it an equal space for everyone. There are plenty of gatekeepers and nasty sexism, but amazing opportunities and people fighting against it. Thanks for the realness. Keep it up. ❤️🔥
I shoot high school sports for a newspaper for eight years now, along with writing. I usually think the lighting in my gyms and fields are bad, but can't imagine trying to get good photos at a mostly dark concert with erratic lights constantly moving. Although I have only ever used the old cameras the paper has given me which was not new when I got there and have never gotten an upgrade so I don't know what I'm missing. My boss thinks I take good pictures because I know how to shoot on manual and I give a crap so the bar is low. I always have respect for professional photographers at events I go to now since its technically half my job now.
I just started shooting concerts this year. I've covered local bands and some bigger named bands like Nonpoint, Taproot and Atreyu. Most of my contacts at the moment is through the local rock station and an up and coming local band called ALBORN (shameless plug). I've received nothing but appreciation from all these acts and the one theme I hear from all these people is, "you're here because you take great images and you're not a Douche.".
We have almost the exact same path in Music Photography. I am a House & Artist Photographer/Videographer covering New England. I would give the advice of learn your gear on manual, Practice composition on fast moving objects, Learn editing techniques to help define your style and improve workflow. Most of the time you will need to have photos ready to go within the next 24 hours.
Love this. Any photography market whether concert, wedding, portrait, journalism and the like, is overly saturated and extremely hard to break into. I freelanced for 12 years before getting a full time job. While working as a freelancer, be consistent and reliable, be kind, network while working and send in your best work, 3 excellent photos are better then 12 average photos. I don’t have a degree in photography, I landed a full time job because a client I work with as a freelancer hired me when a full time job opened based on my work ethic.
Con- You will occasionally take a half filled plastic beer cup to the back of the head, also grow eyes in the back of said head to look out for crowd surfers.
Yep. The full truth. Doing it for 5yrs as a hobby at my own expense. Getting into concert photography requires imho luck - being at the right place at the right time and meeting the right people. Otherwise it stays a hobby. And even after having luck making a full time living just by concerts will probably not work.
Years ago I was shooting a few bands at a band contest. At the end of the event when the winner was announced a couple of dudes who worked for a local newspaper shoved us aside telling us that "the professionals are here to do the work properly". I've never seen any of that attitude from supposed "amateur" concert photographers. Funny how that works.
Oh boy - I know who that '5 songs', 'no close-ups', and 'FOH only' band is. One of the worst/most boring shoots I've had this year. At least the openers were fun!
God yeah. I did it for a year in the twin cities for JUST local punk shows. I've posted maybe a third of what I filmed in 2023. All recorded on my phone, with minimal editing. I'm calling it done in 2024 because I just... couldn't sustain it and stay healthy.
I remember in the mid 2000's, the ushers would tell you that you couldn't hold your phone up in the air to record. They'd allow a pic every so often. Now, you can't even enjoy a concert because EVERYONE has their arm up with a cellphone recording the whole thing. They even stream them live on social media. This era is so fortunate but very spoiled. They have no idea what the stress levels were when trying to sneak in a camera, hoping you weren't busted.
I have some questions and even though they are probably obvious but it's for curious's sake: If you're contracted, are you paid to go to these festivals? Like travel costs? If you're an attendee of a concert/festival and you're a photographer, is there like a safe place to put your camera since you're returning to the audience? Have you actually gotten a nod from a musician for some of your photography work?
-If contracted, then it's a job or position so you are comped for travel and food along with payment for work done. -Most venues have a place to set your bag/gear to the side, but smaller venues and clubs don't. You just have to carry it with you. -I've had many musicians, bands, and labels share out and use my work over the years. this includes social media work, website work, tour promotions, and even getting a photo in the liner notes of an album. I'm thankful for all of it.
Great podcast on rock and roll bands and how you guys put it together I just want to say everyone the cameraman the people behind the scenes the narrator great charisma this is hard work I just want to say you guys nailed it Jesus Loves You
sexism input here! i get hit on at probably around half the shows i work. its exhausting. im literally working why does someone feel the need that their provocative comments are more important than my work.
@@RockedNet well..let me start with monotone-ness of your voice (BORING) the 2007’s like video production quality, the thumbnail is hideous, there are no timestamps for convenience, even the font you chose was terrible! EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS VIDEO SUCKED!
Just like it'd be so much better if our government wasn't owned by billionaires and corporations, just imagine how much better the music industry would be if bands, artists and content creators in the space weren't having their full potential shackled by huge record labels...
