Concert Photography
Of all the types of photography ever invented, I would claim that live concert photography is up there among the most difficult ones. You have five thousand fans behind you, and there is a band in front of you. Nobody stands still. In fact, even the notion of standing still ruins the idea of a good music photo. The bouncers hate you, because you are in their way. The crowd is jealous of you. Crowdsurfers will kick you in the head. The band thinks you’re annoying. The lighting is never bright enough, and changes so frequently that you’re screwed even in the few moments that it is.
And nonetheless, concert photography is one of my all-time favourite pasttimes. It’s hard. It’s unrewarding. But it’s deeply gratifying on a personal lever. It’s about capturing the mood. Capturing the looks. Capturing something the audience is feeling.
Of course, it’s also something I know something about - I’ve done my share of concerts…
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So, how can you take photos at a concert successfully? First of all, remember the “standard” rules for most concerts:
- No flash photography
- First 3 songs only
- What the security guys say is Gospel
The first two rules are a blessing and a curse rolled into one. No flash photography is a nightmare at many venues, but it is often better to take photos without. You don’t get the “feel” of the gig without the stage lighting. The “first 3 songs” rule is a bugger - most bands look the most energetic towards the end of their set. On the other hand, it means that you have a very clear time limit: You’ve got 10 minutes (or so) to get the photos you need. If you screw it up, well, you’re unlucky. But there is no saving film, you obviously have to make the best of the time you have.
Using the available lighting is a challenge, but can be rewarding, especially if you manage to cotton on to the pattern of the lights. Photo of a local band, The Cribs
Equipment
Personally, I have done all all my concert photos with a Canon 60D, 10D or 20D. Don’t even bother trying with a compact camera - you’ll look like an idiot, and the photos will come out rubbish. (Granted, I have worked with a few photographers who have proved me wrong on this point, but why make your life more difficult than it has to be?).
My lenses of choice are a Sigma DX 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, which is great for getting in close, a Sigma 17-35mm f/2.8-4.0 lens which is great for overview shots, and a Canon 50mm f/1.4 fixed length lens. Notice a pattern? Damn right - go for brightness all the way. If you can’t afford zoom glass that is bright enough, then get a 50mm f/1.8 lens. it is normally the cheapest piece of glass you can find, and focussing is a bitch, but you need all the light you can get when doing this type of photography.
Try to capture the artists in the moment where they are most “into” their song. Photo of Eighteen Visions.
How to get in the pit
The first problem you are faced with is that unless you have credentials, the bouncers are unlikely to let you into the venue with professional (i.e anything beyond a compact) camera equipment. So you need a photo pass.
They don’t hand these out to everyone and his dog, but there are a few ways you can get them. Personally, I was shooting for an agency, so they sorted out the photo pass for me, but you can call up your local rag and ask them if they would like concert X photographing. Offer to do it for free. When they say they want the photos, call the venue, and tell them that you are photographing it for the local rag. This isn’t going to work when Metallica comes to town (the local newspaper will send their own photographers, no doubt), but for smaller bands, it usually works: The small bands are thirsting for publicity, the newspaper wants photos, you want into the pit and to get some experience. Everybody wins.
The second avenue is to become an in-house photographer for a venue. This doesn’t work with all venues, and it means you need to get friendly with the managers of the venue. Expect to photograph crappy small local bands for a while, but once they see what you can do, and they start to get faith in you, you may do better.
Finally, you can just call the venue anyway. Tell them that you are a budding photographer, and would love to take some photos. “you have ‘no’, and can’t get a ‘yes’ unless you ask”, as my mother used to say.
Photo of Tarja, of Nightwish.
Tips to taking good photos
So, you are in the photographer’s pit in front of the crowd. Well done. Now, you need to actually take the blasted pictures.
First of all, select an ISO value on your camera that is as low as you can get away with. ISO 200 will give you far better photos than ISO 800, but if all your photos turn out blurry because of lack of light, then you would have been better off with ISO 800 after all.
Second, observe. Concert lighting move in patterns, and you need to try and snap the photo of once the lighting is exactly right.
Always shoot in fully manual. It’ll be too dark for your auto focus, and the rapidly changing lights mean that your light meter is worthless. You need to be good, but your instincts will save you. If you can’t “feel” how a photo is going to turn out before you look at your digital display at the back of the camera, perhaps you aren’t ready for concert photography quite yet. There’s no shame in that - just keep practicing.
Take a lot of photos. Personally, I throw away 99% of my concert photos. In fact, some times, I come home without any really good photos - it isn’t always your fault. The lighting can be particularly tricky, etc. And you can’t plan for any of it - you have to roll with the punches.
Change your vantage point. You can walk all the way back and forth in front of the stage. Do it. If you are in your face enough, chances are that the lead singer will show off for the camera a little - they may even look at your cam for a fraction of a second. That is your cue. Get the photo.
Finally, get as close as you can. I guess this is mostly a personal thing, but I prefer photos where I get really close. Action portraits, if you will: photos taken of an artist at work.
If you manage to get in close enough, you may capture a moment of out-of-character intimacy. Personally, i feel those are the photos that tell most about an artist or a band. This photo is of The Darkness
Inspiration
Check out Lithium Picnic’s concert photography galleries, or talented music photographer Andrew Kendall’s photo gallery.
We’ve also done a separate article on ‘more on live concert photography‘ and ‘concert photography at smaller venues‘, both of which might be of interest to you :)
Making money off your concert photos
Originally, we had a lot of information here on how you could monetize your concert photography, but it all became a bit wieldy. I would strongly recommend you have a look at our seperate writeup on event photography, and our making money off your photos article.
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Categories: Concert Photography | PC articles
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This entry is © Haje Jan Kamps / Photocritic.org, and was posted on Sunday, May 28th, 2006. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
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#1 - May 29th, 2006 at 04:12
Awesome article.
I love concert photography, but unfortunately I only have a point-and-shoot for now. However, I was able to get some pretty good shots at a recent Rhett Miller concert, check out my site and let me know what you think.
#2 - May 29th, 2006 at 06:38
Concert photography
How can you take photos at a concert successfully? Here are some great tips.
…
#3 - May 29th, 2006 at 10:28
Hi,
I read your tips with interest. I am devoted to taking concert photos and do so on a Panasonic DMC LZ1 which, after trying several other cameras is the best for taking low light photos.
I already have intuited two or so of your rules in that I always get close, never use flash and take a million shots, often in continuous shooting mode. One or two of the continuous mode shots generally turn out well and give one an interesting picture of the artist in action.
I live in Australia and carrying a small camera into venues is never a problem. I always get there early to grab a good postion up close to the stage.
#4 - May 29th, 2006 at 14:50
you should check out: http://www.andrewkendall.com/pages/photogallery/favouritephotographs.php
there’s a great podscast about gig photography on his livejournal too: http://andrewkendall.livejournal.com/
#5 - May 29th, 2006 at 19:25
Nice article. I think it mostly applies to rather large venues though, where there is actually a separate pit for the photography people. Though I’ve only started recently, I’ve only done more indie bands which play in smaller venues. This means there’s no separate photography pit and you’re in the middle of the audience. In my opinion, the rules then change.
Which is why I wrote my own guide a while ago, geared mostly towards people like me: just starting out, with smaller bands. :) It’s here:
http://on-no.net/concert-photography/
#6 - May 29th, 2006 at 22:55
[…] Nu las ik net hier een leuk stukje dat probeert in te gaan op hoe je nu goeie foto’s maakt. En, hoewel de schrijver veel dingen zegt die waar zijn, heb ik toch enkele bedenkingen een aanvullingen. […]
#7 - May 30th, 2006 at 00:29
Could you describe the technique you used to convert the digital color to black and white? I used to shoot concerts in college and shot w/ a Minolta X7-A using either a 50mm f1.4 and a 70-210 f4-5.6 using 400ISO Ilford pushed to 1600 w/ a 1/60 exposure and the lens wide open. Some day I’ll have to sit down and scan a bunch of my old work. Great photos.
#8 - May 30th, 2006 at 00:49
Nice tips, I’m just getting into photography with my new Nikon D70s, and events are something I’m interested in.
I guess the fixed focal length 50mm lens would be best if you get get close!
#9 - May 30th, 2006 at 01:22
Definitely some good advice there about getting better at concert photos. I wrote something a little similar on my blog - but concentrating more on the technical and technique side of things.
http://www.boudist.com/archive/2006/02/08/tips_for_live_music_concert_photography.php
#10 - May 30th, 2006 at 01:23
Interesting read although I have managed some great shots with a lesser camera and no front area access but I enjoyed reading your experiences. The last concert I went to was Depeche Mode. Had an older digi that did me proud considering ;) Here are an example of some of the shots- http://www.creativeemotion.com/DMshow/index.htm - again, not like the pros but all things considered it worked great and put together in a group gave me a kick ass 30×40 poster as well as a lot of single 8×10s =)
#11 - May 30th, 2006 at 01:47
You make some good points. I like what you say about getting in with the venue. I take alot of live reggae photos-club shows. However I personaly allways use flash. Only one reggae artist in 4 years has said something. It makes a difference. Being in the front row has been the best advice I have got. It means going an hour or so early to the show and waiting often. One thing left out here is to ENJOY THE SHOW.. dont let the pictures ruin your good time. Thanks for the info / good read !
Bean
http://www.reggaetraders.com/gallery
#12 - May 30th, 2006 at 01:53
I’ve been shooting concerts for over 4 years now. I started out with a disposable camera and slowly worked my way up to a decent camera. I’m after a top of the line Canon as my next camera. With only 24 shots you need to be selective and on point. As I got better I learned what the clubs and bouncers will let you get away with, how to interact with them and the band and I made it back stage over 90% of the time. I completely agree with the original post and have these 2 rules in addition to what was said already…
1) Be cool with everyone and act humble. They remember you and will treat you as you deserve. If you have a digital camera and get a pic of a chick flashing, show the bouncers, you will be their best friend!
2) Don’t be a paparazzi. Your name will be dirt and you will be hated by all. If you get that $5000 shot, tough. I have many and I don’t want to bring myself down to that of pond scum.
#13 - May 30th, 2006 at 01:55
[…] Since taking good pictures at a concert is always on my mind when I’m going to a concert, I thought it’d be nice to share this little article about how to take good concert photography. As a bonus, there are two fantastic galleries at the end of the article to great concert photos. […]
#14 - May 30th, 2006 at 02:10
Thanks for some great advice. It didn’t take me long to realize the most important thing in ANY setting is the speed of the lens; I picked up the Canon 50mm f1.8 and see why the extra speed is so important, but now I have my eye on the f1.4. I’ll second the “don’t bother with a crappy camera”, I managed to spend a night processing a picture from my original Digital Elph of The Skydiggers and Gord Downie from The Tragically Hip, but it is more computer generated than actual photograph…
#15 - May 30th, 2006 at 02:10
Nice article, but The Cribs aren’t really a “local band” anymore, they’re quite big in the UK!
#16 - May 30th, 2006 at 02:17
Love the photo of Tarja… Nightwish is one of my all-time favorite. The black & white usage is phenomenal as well.
#17 - May 30th, 2006 at 02:29
The last picture is of the former bassist of The Darkness. He is a real asshole that tried to split the amazing rock group up. Just thought I would throw that in there.
Nice pictures, and great write up!!!
#18 - May 30th, 2006 at 02:34
I guess using digital cameras is discouraged, but what about just for bar bands. I was thinking of doing this for http://idahofallz.com for our local bar bands.
#19 - May 30th, 2006 at 02:43
Excellent article! I’m actually photographing a stage production of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, but shooting conditions are just as horrendous. Low light, fast action.
#20 - May 30th, 2006 at 03:04
I just began shooting concerts (well I did alot in college, but starting over again 20 years later) Here are some recent shots. The Glenn Miller pics were all available lighting, the punk bands were flash due to really crappy lighting
Glenn Miller http://web.mac.com/boj/iWeb/Music/Glenn%20Miller.html
Local Punk Bands: http://web.mac.com/boj/iWeb/Music/Reno%20Divorce.html
#21 - May 30th, 2006 at 03:37
Great article, thanks for the tips. How long have you been photographing professionally for?? I look forward to more of your great pointers!
#22 - May 30th, 2006 at 04:12
why the 3 song rule? is that a venue/band rule?
#23 - May 30th, 2006 at 04:13
“Full manual” might mislead some readers? You aren’t setting f-stops manually, are you, given the changing light?
Renting good glass is a wonderful option. I rent the Canon 70-200/2.8 stabilized lens ($30 from Saturday a.m. to Monday 5 p.m. from Keeble & Schuchat in Palo Alto - not bad for a lens that costs $1700).
Sharpness is everything: better sharp + grainy than unsharp + smooth. The Canons you mention, with theire CMOS chips, are so smooth even at ISO 800 and 1600 that graininess is really a non-issue.
OK, with the stabilized lens, high ISO, and a monopod (many stage venues allow them), it’s pretty hard to get fuzzy results. Finally, that big, expensive Canon lens focuses - I’ve never had a problem shooting in autofocus mode. (I’ve shot stage events for 30 years, but most of the concerts I shoot are fairly sedate…)
#24 - May 30th, 2006 at 05:11
I disagree with you about flash photography. If you don’t know what you’re doing with your flash, or if you dont know what your flash can do, then its a bad idea to use it. However, if you want to capture some really unique moments or get a certain effect, using the flash can be a very effective tool. Of course, I’m not saying use the flash constantly. Surely you’ll want to get clean pictures of the artist/band members, and that’s when you turn it off. However, if you have a good flash and a good diffuser (a lightsphere is a blessing) you can pull off some really amazing shots that look like you’re using available light. What’s even better is, if you use rear shutter sync, you get some really great photos that convey different emotions depending on the type of music or how active the singer/band members are. Flash photography is great if you know how to take advantage of it. If you don’t know what you’re doing and you’re shooting your flash directly at your subject or bouncing it off a low ceiling, then obviously your photos aren’t going to be so great.
Just my 2 cents, but a great read nonetheless.
#25 - May 30th, 2006 at 07:22
High ISO in B&W gives some good results, check out what I’ve done from the crowd for:
- radiohead: http://flickr.com/photos/philchambers/sets/72057594139688516/
- primal scream: http://flickr.com/photos/philchambers/sets/72057594124166303/
The 135mm f/2L is good for this type of work… just remember to hide your kit!
#26 - May 30th, 2006 at 09:55
This guy takes the best photos of the most recent “big bands” I seen in along time. Check out his site! It’s called I Shot Your Band.com
Http://www.ishotyourband.com
#27 - May 30th, 2006 at 12:41
Great article! Photos of concert/nightclubs/discos/lightshows is awesome. :-)
What cameras/CMOS chips should a poor student go after if you want low grain but high ISO? In the price range $500-$1000.
Thanks
#28 - May 30th, 2006 at 12:54
Good article on getting close that is helpful.
Never underestimate the use of good B&W film, or color, as an alternative to high digital ISO. I have found. I have had good luck with Tri-X @ 3200 and Portra @ 800. A good film body matching the EOS line can be picked up fairly inexpensively and IMO is a better choice for low light.
http://www.pbase.com/rmlupu/minnesota_music
#29 - May 30th, 2006 at 16:01
in response to matty, the first 3 songs rule is because many bands are distracted by flashes. in many concert environments, flashes and photographers in general tend to detract from the experience had by paying concert-goers and this should also be taken into account. I think part of it may actually also be that many bands would actually feel self-conscious if someone was pointing a lens at them for 30-45 minutes straight.
and as others mentioned, as good as this guide was, it mostly applies to larger concert halls with stage lights. smaller venues with no lights or, *gasp*, no stage, almost require a flash. someone also mentioned using the flash creatively. this is the key. by either using a mini-softbox, bouncing the flash off a low, white ceiling or going handheld with the flash and aiming it in a way other than straight on can definitely help make photos more interesting. but yes, this is true only when a band in playing a space where there isn’t enough available light to alone create an interesting effect.
when shooting bands in these smaller spaces - especially bands that are heavy on the mosh - another tip for photographers would be to look into a good insurance policy. it is a risk to take a $2000 tool into a sea of bodies and the last thing you want to is be without protection after something awful happens.
#30 - May 30th, 2006 at 18:04
well i just wanted to say that i absolutely love your article. I also do a lot of concert photography at local venues. I work for a record label which is how i get passes to events like these. But pretty much everything that was said was right on target. I’m glad someone finally wrote about this, i honestly havent seen much about concert photography.
Great work.
#31 - May 31st, 2006 at 01:22
I noticed you said you used the Sigma lenses. I have a 20d and was wondering about the qualiy of pics using the sigme lenses versus the same canon lenses? Obviously the sigma’s are cheaper, but just wondering.
#32 - May 31st, 2006 at 05:45
I take all the photos I want using flash. I usually bring 2 or 3 disposables and take all the pics I want.
#33 - May 31st, 2006 at 16:54
Nice article.
For Canon SLR users with a few bucks in the pocket, I would also recommand the Canon f2.8 24-70 L lense for that kind of shooting. The Sigma equivalent is nice, but really heavier and a bit slow on the autofocus (but something like 800 euros cheaper).
#34 - May 31st, 2006 at 22:48
Really nice article and pictures !
On my side, I’m using a Canon EOS 5D and lots of the pictures you can see on my blog are taken with the 50mm f1.8.
#35 - June 1st, 2006 at 16:33
I have been lucky enough to have been allowed to bring my 15 year old son to a few of his favorite bands; SlipKnot, Shadows Fall, Lamp of God, Unearth, As I Lay Dying, when I was hired to shoot some concerts. The first concert was at the Xcell Center in St Paul Mn. The security was way cool for this one. They let me shoot for the first three songs, but since they laughed that it’s hard to tell when some of their songs are finished, they were relaxed on how long I was there. I also was allowed to take more pictures from around the arena. I use my small built in flash on my Nikon D70 only when the concert lights are in flash mode. Kind of blurs the fact whether I actually used my flash. The same for when I did SlipKnot at the Roy Wilkens Center in St Paul, also. There security was pretty strict. After 3 songs I was out of there and they stopped me when I tried to take more pics around the arena. That’s cool, that’s part of their job. I shoot 1600 ISO using the small flash when needed. Grain is not a problem if there is lots of color contrast. Usually for the first three song, they keep the lights down low, kinda sucks, but wait until the light hits your subject and shoot away.
I use a Nikon D70 with a Tamron 28-135 (converts to 42-190 mm) and a Nikon 70-210 (converts to 105-315 mm). I have a small camera backpack (extra padding) that wear to carry all of my stuff, keeps it close to me and I don thave to leave it anywhere. Usually you are lower than the subject so you either have to stand on your toes or lift the camera up above your head to get straight on shots. This position also allows you to shoot the subjects while they are backlit by the spotlights. It adds to the concert coolness look.
http://www.metalreview.com/ViewConcert.aspx?ID=20036
http://www.metalreview.com/ViewConcert.aspx?ID=20045
#36 - June 4th, 2006 at 22:19
[…] DIY Photography has an article about concert photography. One of the people commenting on this article mentions the rules change when you’re in a smaller venue and I agree. […]
#37 - June 7th, 2006 at 01:10
Hi hope you can help with my query!
As an employee if I took photos of the factory I work in, can I use them or publish them on a web-site?
Hope you can shed some light
Thanks
John
#38 - June 11th, 2006 at 15:59
hey, thanks for all the tips… my home town has a thriving small venue scene, and i take A LOT of photos, some of which turn out truely amazing… only problem is that i use a digital compact shitey kodak which EATS batteries…
i’m having the oposite problems to most budding photographers, i know a lot of small venue owners, theese are also the people who put on larger local gigs in out music hall (2000 + capacity) i have been offered photopasses for a few concerts, so i need to get myself sorted out with a decent slr…
any advice? im talking digital here as i know jack shit about film, i need s decent slr, and a few decent lenses, only problem is that i am on a very tight buget (being 16 and in full time education) i have maximum of a few hundred quid to work with
cheers
ross
#39 - June 11th, 2006 at 20:15
what “compact” cameras would you suggest for concert photography for someone who isn’t on the level of gaining press access and would like something to take great photos.
#40 - June 14th, 2006 at 00:30
Anyone have any suggestions on how to photograph the drummer? They’re usually covered up by either their own drum set, or other members of the band (since they’re shoved to the back of the stage.) So unless you can somehow get higher than the stage they’re usually impossible to get a picture of. Thoughts?
#41 - June 15th, 2006 at 00:06
Man , I could not disagree more. Like most photo sites you are recemmending following photography rules. Uhg! Boring! Try something new. Check out the band photography at shannoncorr.com. Learn your own techinques.
#42 - June 15th, 2006 at 13:45
I am amanaboutadog’s chief photographer…
My ’standard lens’ is a Nikon 200 mm / f2 - (very) expensive but it really does give something extra - you can get very close with this (monopod required). Definitely never flash; 400 or 800 ASA film; Nikon F3 HPs (I wear glasses) with MD4s - generally there’s no time for anything so I go in with four bodies all loaded up and ready to go. Motordrives (MD4s) mean you don’t have to take your eye off the action.
I’ll have something like an 85 mm f1.4 or 50 mm f1.2 (go for fast lenses) on one of the others. Keep it simple and if in doubt take the shot!
My top tip is to concentrate (at least to start) on the (visual) leader of the band - probably the vocalist - definitely Claire in amanaboutadog…get to know one band really well - it takes several gigs to get grooved into what they / you want. And yes - about 99% of the frames go in the bin…
Pete
#43 - June 15th, 2006 at 23:32
Hi,
I agree with Shannon. Rules are what you follow if you want your photos to look exactly like everyone elses. Change it up! Use a slow shutter…and with flash! (if you can). I have two pretty good ones in particular at:
http://www.ProRockPhotography.com/live1.html
I also try other things like white silhouettes, and zoom with slow shutter speeds. These are things you really need to try if you don’t have the pretty colored lighting. Otherwise you just have the same photo over and over again.
So try new things and stand out. That’s why clients will choose you over others.
Lisa Wareham
Director, Pro Rock Photography
lisa@prorockphotography.com
http://www.ProRockPhotography.com
#44 - June 23rd, 2006 at 11:40
Great article…lots of helpful hints.
I take lots of concert photos because I work at a venue. Sometimes I have good luck and sometimes I don’t. But it is great practice.
Cindy
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ctatunderground/
#45 - June 23rd, 2006 at 22:07
Is it at all posible to take good concert photos with this: Minolta Maxxum 300si, AF 35-70 0.5m lens? It does have manual focus, but the rest is pretty much all automatic. I realize that’s not ideal, but what combination of setting/film should I use?
#46 - June 24th, 2006 at 20:42
[…] Great Concert Photos: Large Venues […]
#47 - June 25th, 2006 at 18:56
[…] For more on concert photography, read these good articles from Photocritic and on-no.net. · · · · · · · · · · · Posted by markku Filed in Tutorials, Links, Techniques […]
#48 - June 28th, 2006 at 19:53
Nice article, thank you.
For spanish speakers, here you have my own tutorial. It’s in printer friendly pdf format and, I should apoligize, written in the chimical era.
http://www.denaflows.com
Thanks again
#49 - June 30th, 2006 at 08:17
I’ve enjoyed your article, and thought I would like to sahre how I capture my photos in convert events.
ISO 1600
Low F-Stop that I rattle between 10/15 and 60 - depending on the light and hte movement.
My camera - now I use the Can-DrebXT 350D - I chose it over the NikonD70 because my hands just arent that big. with a flash module, you dont want a heavy camera, and the features on the dreb-xt are amazing and easy to adjust on the fly.
No flash in concert - as one of my inspirers once told me, let the God’s of stage lighting do their magic.
he was right, check out my pics on my site (this message left 6/30/06)
God Bless
#50 - July 4th, 2006 at 04:53
“but you can call up your local rag and ask them if they would like concert X photographing. Offer to do it for free. ”
That’s the best way to devalue the profession, while simultaneously getting in the way of shooters who are actually there to make a living.
#51 - July 4th, 2006 at 06:26
Hoss: Not being funny or anything, but how did /you/ get started? And how do you feel would be a better way to entry into the business?
300 words in an email to post@photocritic.org, I’ll be glad to post it here on the site.
#52 - July 8th, 2006 at 10:35
figure out the brand of camera you like and do not change to other brands. not all cameras have the same ‘feel’ so find the brand you like best and stick to it. including accesories, etc. my brand is nikon. during the 80’s i got talked into using canon and hated them. plus, they could not take the punishment my nikons could… be loyal to the brand you choose and you’ll be happier with your outcome and overall use.
#53 - July 23rd, 2006 at 17:33
Hi.
I’d like to offer an alternative view on this subject. First, the author over-simplifies the notion of getting a photo pass. I have been photographing concerts for 30 years and to this day have not wrangled a pass out of anyone. Like most everyone, some of my stuff is really good and some not. For many non-arena shows, you can pretty much walk in with what you have and fire away.
So let’s look at things from the non-photo pass perspective. Trying to sneak in a camera that even appears to be pro-level is pretty much a crap-shoot. Most venues will tell you to put it away or to leave. Nowadays, major venues have posted a new rule on their forbidden item lists; no profession cameras. That means you can pretty much fire away with a point and shoot. The author comes off a bit high-brow when he says…”Don’t even bother trying with a compact camera - you’ll look like an idiot, and the photos will come out rubbish.” That’s just a clueless statement. I have point and shoot pics that rival that of my classic Olympus OM-1n. Lighten up sir.
If I even tried to pull out my Olympus with a 200mm lens, I’d be bounced out. So let’s get over ourselves and concentrate on how to get the best pics with a point and shoot. Unless you’re right up front, you’ll probably need a 4x or higher zoom factor. Combine that with a 5mp or higher camera and you have the basics you need. The next problem is settings. Auto does not work well. You’ll want to go to a local club and experiment with your settings. Open up the aperture (F2.8) and go with a slow shutter speed (1/60th). Using a monopod will help stabilize the shots.
Now it’s just a matter of trial and error. Would a DSLR be better? Sure it would! However, there are many obstacles to their use at concerts. Read your point and shoot manual, experiment, and give it a try. Dont let anyone tell you that you cant get something done simply becuase you dont have the best equipment, or the best access. I have never had either and I have many pics that could easily be considered pro-level.
Good luck.
#54 - July 27th, 2006 at 22:53
Greetings,
I have been trying to break into concert photography for a little over a year now. Pretty much impossible. Although, the more shows that I got to, I keep meeting people with “connections.” It seems that this will be my best bet. My 20D and collection low light level lenses will be waiting in the que.
So in the meantime, I will keep buying the great seats and keep using the point and shoot. The results are pretty impressive. And the 8×10 prints look terrific – pro quality. Well, pro enough to frame on out walls.
Actually, I have been contacted by many fans and even some of the bands/artists.
The camera we currently us is the Canon SD550. Turns out beautiful shots.
Since this is the digital age and our photo albums are not getting filled anymore, I developed a brand and made a website. Take a and have some fun. I pretty much post everything I can. I remind you, that this is a fan site only. We just do it for the fans and the love of music.
http://www.tourbuslive.com
#55 - August 13th, 2006 at 20:47
Cool article, thanks very much!
#56 - August 25th, 2006 at 12:34
I really loved this article. I was looking for some help in how to photograph bands or live gigs and I found this.
Thanks a lot for the wonderful help.
I love photographing and I have been doing in my garden for a while, but taking pictures of bands and singers is my new passion.
I’ll keep on trying to get my best shot…not easy though.
Thanks a lot.
Solange
#57 - September 2nd, 2006 at 21:38
My heartbeat quicened and my eyes were glued to the story about concert photography which described how I felt exactly. The challenge of getting a great shot under difficult and changing-by-the-second conditions is the hard part, but is also what makes it so rewarding when you get a shot that captures a split second emotional expression of a performer. I don’t yet have a really good camera and have been challenged with taking photo’s with 2 really cheap compact cameras-a Kodak cx6330 3.2 meg and a FugiFilm 3 meg. I’ve relied on post photographic digital editing to try and make up for the lack of quality in camera equipment and hope that I’ve at least come close to something worthy of looking at.
Steve http://www.cdimage.ca
#58 - September 11th, 2006 at 10:58
[…] An interesting article about how to get a press pass, what equipment to use, and tips about how to get the good photos.read more | digg story […]
#59 - September 28th, 2006 at 02:56
Thank you for this great article. I am still learning but recently was contacted by a band who wants to use my photos from a recent show. What about pricing? Any advice?
#60 - September 29th, 2006 at 18:54
I am going to a very small concert at a college and want to get some good photos for my class, photo1. I am going to use Tmax3200 and am a bit concerened that you sugested slow film. I am really new at this and it bieng my first class I am in a little conflict over what the teacher says and what people cay to do so I just want to clarify something, when you say te the light meter is useless does that mean the I should use F4.5 (wich i believe is as large as my lens goes) @ 1/500 and not worry that the line in the view finder that he says should be as close to 0 as possible looks like the pic. will be way underexposed?
#61 - October 26th, 2006 at 07:59
To everyone saying “break the rules!” “use a flash!”, that particular rule has nothing to do with photographic dogma and everything to do with courtesy.
As a bands frontman, and a concert photographer/music journalist, I have experience at both ends of the lens. Flashes can suck, ruin the experience for the crowd and can cause problems for the musicians. The other thing to thin about is that you aren’t the only photographer there. The bands will frequently have their own with them, and other pros will be in front.
The pros have most likely signed an agreement stating that the use of flash is forbidden (it’s part of what you have to do to get a photo pass) and if you don’t have a pass yourself, playing nice is the best way to avoid trouble.
That said, if you have an agreement with the band, and are doing pics for them, then speak to them about it and of course, encourage them to let you break the rules.
Remember, they aren’t doing the show so you can get clever pics. You are a guest at someone elses party.
#62 - October 26th, 2006 at 12:30
Thank you for the excellent article, exactl;y what I was looking for. I have my first chance at gig photography tonight and I may, just may, get a couple of good shots out of it now!
I have managed to get a photography pass from the band’s (Zero 7) management simply by emailing them and explaining who I was;
Amateur photographer looking to increase his experience and protfolio.
That I’d be as unobtrusive as I can, no flash etc (big venue, good lighting).
That the photographs would simply be to expand my portfolio.
So they came back with the pass, an opportunity to speak to the lighting technician beforehand, and they would like a DVD of the photographs!!!
Will let you know how it goes.
#63 - October 30th, 2006 at 02:11
[…] Tips for live music / concert photography (boudist.com) Concert Photography (photocritic.org) Understanding Camera Metering and Exposure (cambridgeincolour.com) Concert photography (on-no.net) […]
#64 - October 31st, 2006 at 02:56
I have a little advice..get to know the security guys …even just for the night….give them your card and tell them you’ll send em some photos of the show…they have all been pretty excited…the most recent was where the security guy told me when and where the artist was entering the building .. and I was able to get some shots….
and my new fav…is the 1.4 50mm
I just got it a month ago…i’ve been able to shoot in just about the darkest stage lighting senarios…word…
http://greenwoodimages.blogspot.com/
#65 - October 31st, 2006 at 15:22
OK, SLR cameras are what you should use when taking pictures at concerts. However, in my 10 years of concert photography I have only ever taken photos with a compact camera - in the past 5 years I’ve used a digital compact (albeit in manual mode).
All the concert photos on my site were taken with a Minolta and a Fuji digital camera…. And the results are pretty damn good. Click on Photo Albums 01/02/03 to see more shots.
#66 - November 6th, 2006 at 19:25
I’m looking for ways to get a photo pass for a pretty well known band at a large venue in the coming month. I’ve already emailed the bands press manager. I’m determined to shoot this show, I want in. Any pointers?
#67 - November 8th, 2006 at 07:50
I love how half of the people who bag you here who have been shooting concerts for a while have reasonably shit photos.. Pathetic really..
This is a great guide, only a guide and not steadfast rules, that will give you a really good starting point to get into the industry.. Thanks for putting the effort into writing this..
#68 - November 12th, 2006 at 20:29
Great tips for concert photography.
Check out some of my photos here- http://www.kingpinphoto.com
#69 - November 19th, 2006 at 08:19
nightwish u r like my all time fav band i would like it if u guys came to perth all played for us and i would so can SO come and see u guys cos us r the greatest band eva made U ROCK???
#70 - November 27th, 2006 at 00:31
My question is, why “First 3 songs only”. Who set that rule?
#71 - November 28th, 2006 at 03:49
Would love to get your feedback on my work at http://www.girishmenon.com … I’ve shot 5-6 concerts and want to do this for a living. Thanks for this article!
#72 - November 28th, 2006 at 16:49
I absolutely loved this article - i was looking for some advice on lenses (i recently bought a Nikon D80 - a switch from my Canon 300D) and desperately need some insight on a good fast lens to shoot with (as i too shoot without flash - mostly because i have to!)
I’ve been taking live shots for about a few months now and i have to say i agree with everything this article said! With the photopass it really is about chatting to people and dropping the odd email to the venue/bands press etc and chancing your arm - sometimes it really works!
I sadly haven’t sorted my website up but i have a few shots on the ol’ myspace here: http://www.myspace.com/lucylovestodance As you can see i’m still a amateur so thank you for the advice!
#73 - November 28th, 2006 at 17:10
[…] Question, then: Are you a concert photographer, interested in getting involved in making money off your concert photos? […]
#74 - December 2nd, 2006 at 20:49
Great article. A question though.
I know I few bands and managers but other then that I cannot get photo passes. I try taking pictures from the front row….but that is where the mosh pit is, so I just give up. I have asked all my local venues and they all say “ask the band’s manager” and when I ask the manager they say “ask the venue” Is that normal? Who else could I ask?
Thank You
#75 - December 13th, 2006 at 02:21
I have become the house photographer at the venue 8 in Rapid City South Dakota and I am really enjoying it.
As a musician it is only natural my photography would move towards capturing music on stage.
Nice artical
#76 - December 18th, 2006 at 14:55
Hello, i love http://www.photocritic.org! Let me in, please :)
#77 - December 28th, 2006 at 04:24
Well, so far it sounds as if I am doing almost everything right regarding my camera. I used to have an advanced point-and-shoot digital, FUJIFILM S7000. The shutter delay REALLY bugged the crap out of me. I recently acquired a Canon EOS Rebel XTi, and I am truly excited to start using it at all the local venues. The shutter delay is practically nonexistant, so hopefully I will get the pictures I meant to take. One virtue of learning on a point-and-shoot is that I have been able to hone my anticipation skills.
I always try to get close to the stage, and I HATE using flash - it takes away all of the ambiance. I can hardly ever get a clear image without it - I have been asked to not delete most pictures, though, because my subjects like options. I do like motion, I just wish I could get some clear shots.
Any tips for photographing an energetic drummer?
#78 - December 28th, 2006 at 04:50
I have some pictures on my “myspace” site.
#79 - December 29th, 2006 at 00:54
http://www.myspace.com/seekthesacrifice
#80 - December 30th, 2006 at 00:35
[…] I’ve mentioned him before, as part of our writeup on concert photography, as the guy is a fantastic concert photographer. That only deals with a tiny fraction of where his real skills lay, however… […]
#81 - January 8th, 2007 at 23:42
Nice site actually. Gone to my favourites. Thanks for creation.
#82 - January 10th, 2007 at 02:41
Concert photos are so much fun while doging security and trying to not piss off your neighbor while flashing towards the stage. Take a look at some of my collections over the years. Metallica, Motely Crue, Tim McGraw, Korn , Kenny Chesney and many more, I like this one [URL=http://entertainment.webshots.com/photo/13 . Digital is the only way to go . I wood sugest that you join the bands fan club and you can get a private meeting after the show and probably get them to pose with you or for you at least. Hot chicks usualy seem to get the best results for asking them to hold still . check out my view , I find the lighting quiet acceptable. [URL=http://entertainment.webshots.com/photo/223 Rolling Stones Rock!!!!
#83 - January 10th, 2007 at 07:38
[…] Bloody hell, we didn’t half open a can of worms! It seems as if everyone, their dog, and their uncle have views on concert photography. Great, of course, but not all of it makes sense. In the past we’ve covered live photography at big and smaller venues, and both of those entries attracted a lot of insightful comments (you may want to go back and re-read the posts and comments, because there really is a lot of good going down there). […]
#84 - January 21st, 2007 at 21:47
I recently acquired a canon digital rebel xti, and I am very new at SLR cameras. I am taking a photography class, and have purchased a few guides as well, just to learn as much of my camera as humanly possible. I work at a radio station so we constanly need concert photos. I am trying the trial and error method, but I would like a physical guide to go by if possible. Are there guides out there for taking concert photos? I have been searching and can’t find anything. Maybe there isn’t anything. It’d be a money maker if there was. Please advise if you’ve seen or heard about anything. Thanks…..Ryan
#85 - January 23rd, 2007 at 18:36
Thanks! i found this very easy to read for a beginner like myself! I am still confused though because everyone seems to say one thing or another! For example, some believe in low ISO while others swear by high ISO. I guess i will just have to try each out and figure it out for myself.
#86 - February 3rd, 2007 at 05:24
I recently purchased a Nikon Digital Scanner so I could scan into my computer 30+ years of slide and negative photography. Approximately 400 rolls of that film is of concerts I photographed mostly between 1977 and 1983. As a matter of fact, the reason I purchased a 35mm camera in the first place was to photograph concerts. I have photographed about 125 bands from ACDC to ZZ Top (6 times). Tonight as I was scanning a roll of ZZ Top from the El Loco tour in 1982 I decided to google concert photography and you came up. I have something to add to your rules. Position is almost everything. Know your band and how they are going to be positioned on the stage before you get there so you can get an advantageous position. (Note: Almost all of my photography was done in the old general admission days.) If you are not positioned well you will not get good shots. If you are mainly interested in guitarists as I was, you will need to position yourself to the guitarist’s right (if he is right handed, reverse if left) or facing the guitarist to your left. This is because you will be working with shallow depth of fields. This way the neck of the guitar will be furtherest away from you. This doesn’t sound like much but if you shoot into the neck it is likely that the guitarist will be in focus but the guitar neck will not be in focus. I don’t take to many photos at shows any more although I did shoot Peter Frampton this year (I too old now and stick out like a sore thumb) but I tell you shooting concerts although very tough to do from a concert crowd was some of the best times of my life. I wish I could go back and do them all over again.
#87 - February 27th, 2007 at 17:36
[…] we recently posted our guide to concert photography, someone rightly pointed out that the tips were mostly geared towards larger venues with […]
#88 - March 7th, 2007 at 01:24
I’m definantly NOT a pro when it comes to photography, but I’m going to school for it and always end up at shows taking photos of my friends bands. It’s one of my favorite things to do, and when asked at school what kind of photography I’m working towards, my response is always that I’m really into concerts. I don’t think half of the people I talk to understand it.
I LOVE THIS ARTICLE!!
I’ve been wanting to ask photographers that actually do concert shots about how they do their magic. I’ve come up with some great photos, but I want to get more personal, and learn how to deal with the lighting.
This article just opened my eyes! Thanks!
#89 - March 9th, 2007 at 20:20
Yesterday I shot my first concert photos (http://www.flickr.com/photos/t3mujin/sets/72157594578043123/) and I was able to confirm one thing: a fixed lens really is a damn cool lens for concerts!
#90 - April 26th, 2007 at 20:53
[…] ‘tut’; konser fotoðraflarý Etiketler: konser, konser fotoðraflarý, nasýl yapýlýr, howto küçük ve büyük mekanlarda konser fotoðraflarý çekmenin sýrlarý. poponuza tekmeyi yememek için standart […]
#91 - May 7th, 2007 at 04:59
Just picked up a Nikon D40 myself and have been looking for some advice on shooting my buddy’s hip-hop band at local bars. Right now I’m using the kit lens (18-55mm f/3.5-5.6) and I’m constantly searching for more LIGHT! I’ll keep in mind a 50mm f/1.8, but for really intimate settings, where I have free run of the bar to get any shot I want, would a 35 or 28mm be a better choice?
Check out some of my first live concert shots with my new d40:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/trompen/collections/72157600134510487/
#92 - May 9th, 2007 at 07:56
the 28 is always gonna be more light but with “digital” you don’t need to worry as much about that. if you use a film camera, sometimes i will use fill flash or i will “push” the film a stop or 2 if it’s a really dark bar.
the 28 is gonna be a wide angle… if that’s the effect your looking for. you can use the stock 18-55mm just as easy if you know a few of these tips.
i don’t carry extra lens when i shoot a concert i carry extra cameras… all nikons of coarse but sometimes i
will carry up to 5 cameras at a particular event. 2, 35mm professional bodies and maybe 2 or 3 smaller mom & pop shooters like the 4600 or whatever to get a different “vibe” or look and feel… gonzo style.
be creative, go do a few test shoots, see what works best for you. be artistic and you’ll see even bad photos may have a certain charm. hope this answers a few questions for you.
good shooting.
#93 - June 22nd, 2007 at 06:01
Hey, great article!
It’s good to know there are others out there who love shooting concerts as much as I do.
Check out the concert shots on my site.
#94 - July 5th, 2007 at 18:09
Bob
#95 - July 6th, 2007 at 12:33
Hey!!
I love this article!!!
i always take photos to all concerts I go! I have a cannon 350-d with 18-55, 28-200,75-300!!
soyviaje4@yahoo.es (my email)
I tell you my space,there I have photoconcerts!!!
a hug
#96 - August 23rd, 2007 at 02:14
I abosoluty love this article! I do concert photography and no one understands why I do it or why anyone does it. But some of the best pictures come from being in the crowd, rockin to the music and gettin shots. I use a Nikon Coolpix and its been great for me! I use a variety of cameras but that the “usual” grab.
The shot with James of Eighteen Visions is one of my favorite pics. I’ve seen them live several times, met them and some of my best work been of them. I’ve seen a lot of pics of bands from live shows and its hard to find those that grab your attention and make you want it forever.
Awesome article once again!
I have a website with my concert photography coming just like a lot of others lol
http://www.stillcoda.com
#97 - October 10th, 2007 at 19:45
Thanks for a great article. After year of being responsible for “not providing enough light” for you snappers, I am trying my hand at gig photography. The help is appreciated.
#98 - November 1st, 2007 at 21:01
fantastic blog, concert photography is great. I have a local venue which i cover, unfortunantly the extent of the lighting is about the same as that of a maglite! still some photos are good! by far the best i have ever taken were at the liverpool summer pops photograhing whitesnake, i didn’t have any photo pass so i got bouncered what made up for it though was some 1st class photos of david coverdale!
thanks for the advice!
i particulary liked the 3 rules however i don’t agree with the first three songs, i notice pro photographers doing it at weddings as well as concerts. I just think its arrogant, you miss the atmosphere
#99 - November 12th, 2007 at 05:47
Thank you for the tips. Very helpful. Check my site out I have just started out after taking several classes in Photography. Would love to have some input. http://www.freewebs.com/purephotography
#100 - November 14th, 2007 at 05:08
I’m really glad I came across sites like this before I took my camera to too many shows. My first few attempts I was that annoying jerk with the flash going off every 3 seconds. I’ve since bought a 50mm 1.8 for my Nikon D80 and am able to get decent shots without a flash at all. I don’t necessarily abide by the 3 song rule, but I usually only take photos at small gigs where the band probably enjoys as must exposure as they can get (pun intended…).
Check out my photos of Wintersleep live in Toronto here:
http://www.wolveshawksandkites.com/2007/10/18/live-in-toronto-drug-rug-cut-it-up-and-wintersleep-welcome-the-night-sky/
Thanks for the tips!
#101 - November 20th, 2007 at 13:27
I used to go on the road with Matchbox Twenty as my X was their production manager, so I got to go where I wanted and go crazy with my camera….My LOVE!! I love photography and I got some incredible shots that I think would be t shirt, poster, jacket worthy. Incredible lighting that iA caught under an incredible bright blue light wiht Adam on guirtar and Rob Thomas on the piano. GREAT photo really, im very impressed with my skill there. I have many more that I cherish and that no one has seen (aka have never been in a magazine) they are mine and mine alone and my pride and joy. I was able to wonder anywhere I wnated because of the fact I was engaged to their production manager for years so I got to go behind the ropes. Many would say “youre so lucky to get so close” I only thought of it as I got to take these incredible pictures tht no one else could take unless you were the photographer for MTV, and mind you my photos look if not better or just right up there with a simple camera, but the heart a passion of a photographer. Not to meantion I got some signed after I had them printed to my expectations. I will never forget how I had the oppertunity to take photos so close to a band I love and they came out better then “known photographers” because I had WAY more passion for the actual photos I was taking!! Believe that Zoie85022@yahoo.com
#102 - December 15th, 2007 at 17:33
Photos of Placebo in concert - Montréal / Québec
#103 - December 17th, 2007 at 19:40
I am the photographer for http://www.concerttickets.com. The bottom line for good concert photography is being as close to the stage as possible. Even front row seats can place you 25 feet from the performer. Other points is that if you are in a venue that where seats are set up on a grade, it is good to know how many rows to be up to be level with the performer. This can provide a straight on view. We often get back stage passes and get very interesting photography. But when we are out front, close is key.
Mark Johnson
Senior Photographer
http://www.concertickets.com
#104 - December 29th, 2007 at 22:20
Hi
been reading this blog for a while now has been very usefull .
Ive been lucky enough to take many photos of some big name rock bands over the last few years
some of wich can be found here
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v331/R1FSR/DREAM%20THEATER%20-%20Manchester%2007/
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v331/R1FSR/SATRIANI%20-%20Manchester%2006/
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v331/R1FSR/SCORPIONS%20Manchester%2007/
and was wondering about getting my name into some agencies to open up the chances of more photo passes…is there any in particular that i should contact , any info would be apreciated .
cheers
Paul
#105 - January 24th, 2008 at 06:30
Hi.
I’m not sure who wrote the original article, but I just wanted to throw in my 2 cents regarding camera positions at a concert, as I have somewhat different advice, and probably more experience than any living person on the planet:
1. DON’T get as close as possible.You will only limit your photo possibilities…..WIDEN OUT….. Let your frame “breathe”.
2. DON’T shoot where everyone else is shooting from.
3. DO shoot from where everyone else ISN’T- even if all you’re shooting is the back of the band. I guarantee that your pictures will be infinitely better than anyone else’s.
-Neal Preston
#106 - January 26th, 2008 at 15:33
You’ve missed something out there, if you get into the pit IT WILL BE LOUD!
EAR PLUGS ARE ESSENTIAL!!!!
Just something worth noting if you value you’re hearing as anyone working in and around stages will tell you.
#107 - February 18th, 2008 at 21:13
[…] Photocritiq.org - Concert Photography […]
#108 - February 19th, 2008 at 14:13
Before you go to your gig, try and find out, through the internet (Youtube, band website, fan forum), if there is live footage of the current tour. That’ll give you some indication of the band and stage set-up, and perhaps even a playlist.
If you have a playlist for the current tour, try and find out which are the first three songs. Familiarise yourself with these tracks before you go so you know if there are any emotional or tense bits that might be good moments to capture the band or the singer performing.
#109 - February 29th, 2008 at 02:16
I have been fortunate to photograph a lot of great musicians. I would appreciate it if you would check out my work.
My Webzine: Brain Dead Media
Personal Myspace: Dave Williams Myspace
#110 - March 3rd, 2008 at 19:00
I never use flash, take tons of photos and usually use a high iso which gives me a good shot for the web.. but not really for printing purposes. I’m only a point and shoot guy with a panasonic TZ1 which offers a 10x zoom - The closer the better obviously - I only ever look for a couple good shots from the night. If anyone knows this camera at all and can suggest different setting options please do. Other suggestions for point and shoot cameras with 10-12x zoom I am looking for also with good video clip features. I take photos and clips for my reviews site.
thanks
Jeff
#111 - March 8th, 2008 at 21:47
I just wanted to come on here and comment on how great your site is. Ive been little bits of live photography for awhile and just started getting the right equipment to do it well. Great helpful hints to really get started and focused on the right stuff, since concert stuff is so much improve, you really have to have to fundamentals down. Thanks
#112 - March 9th, 2008 at 06:21
Gotta love it!
#113 - March 11th, 2008 at 10:56
Nice article…
One thing I do differently.. I think autofocus works fine if you’re close enough to the action and it’s light assisted. Without auto, accurate focus must be a nightmare with those wide aperture lenses.
Check out my results a http://www.gigshot.co.uk and feel free to drop me a line via the site
Cheers
Martin
#114 - April 4th, 2008 at 18:59
[…] read this article that gives tips and insights on how shoot photos at concerts. Share and Enjoy: These icons link […]
#115 - April 22nd, 2008 at 22:02
Just found this by accident while surfing. I am glad to read that pretty much all that I experienced in the 70’s and 80’s still applies. Very straightforward information and exactly how I shot all my work on my concert photography website. Of course mine was film, long before digital and autofocus,but still, no flash, three songs ( you hope) road managers from hell, crowd jealous, get credentials, work the light, manual exposure, shoot with the music, shoot tight and watch for them to find the lens. I would only add that for bigger shows, arrive well before the lights go down, make friends with the T-shirt security so they aren’t wasting your three songs checking to see if you belong.
grateful for anyone to check out my site.