How to become a concert photographer
If you want to become a concert photographer, it can seem like a daunting task. But don’t worry — you don’t have to be a professional photographer from day 1. Take it step by step.
CAMERA
The first thing you'll need is a camera. If you don't already have one, then go out and buy one now! It doesn't matter how much money you spend on your camera body or lens — just get something that works well in low light conditions (most concerts are held at night) and has enough megapixels so that when you blow up your photos they look good on print or online.
The first thing you'll need is a camera. If you don't already have one, then go out and buy one now! It doesn't matter how much money you spend on your camera body or lens — just get something that works well in low light conditions (most concerts are held at night) and has enough megapixels so that when you blow up your photos they look good on print or online.
GETTING INTO A CONCERT
Next, you need to get into your first concert. This sounds obvious but it's actually not as easy as it sounds. You can't just show up at the door and expect to get in; you need a photo pass. The best way to get into a concert is through the artist's management company (if they have one), or their record label if they're signed to one. The best way to find out who these companies are is through the artists website or social media pages.
Next, you need to get into your first concert. This sounds obvious but it's actually not as easy as it sounds. You can't just show up at the door and expect to get in; you need a photo pass. The best way to get into a concert is through the artist's management company (if they have one), or their record label if they're signed to one. The best way to find out who these companies are is through the artists website or social media pages.
Artists that are just getting started or in the pre-show of another band are more excited to have a photographer at their gigs. So you can also send them a message through their website or instagram.
PREPARING FOR THE CONCERT
So now you have an invitation. The first thing you need to do is research the band you want to shoot. Find out where they're playing, look up the venue on Google Maps and get a feel for what it's like. Then check out some YouTube videos to know the type of artist you are dealing with. What makes them special and how do they move on the stage? The more you know about your subject, the better prepared you'll be when shooting them!
So now you have an invitation. The first thing you need to do is research the band you want to shoot. Find out where they're playing, look up the venue on Google Maps and get a feel for what it's like. Then check out some YouTube videos to know the type of artist you are dealing with. What makes them special and how do they move on the stage? The more you know about your subject, the better prepared you'll be when shooting them!
AT THE CONCERT
Now that you've got everything ready to go, figure out the rules. Are you only allowed to photograph for the first three songs? Is there a photo pit? Or if not: how close you can get to the stage without obstructing anyone else's view or getting kicked out. Try to take photos from different angles and distances and don’t forget to photograph the vibe.
Now that you've got everything ready to go, figure out the rules. Are you only allowed to photograph for the first three songs? Is there a photo pit? Or if not: how close you can get to the stage without obstructing anyone else's view or getting kicked out. Try to take photos from different angles and distances and don’t forget to photograph the vibe.
And one of the most important things: enjoy the concert!
EDIT YOUR PHOTOS
Being a concert photographer also means: editing! If you want to take professional-looking shots without spending thousands of dollars on gear, then invest in learning how to use Photoshop or Lightroom software instead of buying expensive equipment right away. These programs allow you to edit photos and make them look as professional as possible with little effort from yourself or time spent learning how to use them properly.
Being a concert photographer also means: editing! If you want to take professional-looking shots without spending thousands of dollars on gear, then invest in learning how to use Photoshop or Lightroom software instead of buying expensive equipment right away. These programs allow you to edit photos and make them look as professional as possible with little effort from yourself or time spent learning how to use them properly.
Do you have more tips? Let us know!