Five Steps to Photographing your first Concert.
1: find a media outlet to shoot for, even if it is a small local paper, a
weekly, a website, etc...
Offer your services pro-bono if you have to.
2: contact the PUBLICITY DEPARTMENT of the label; tell them that you want to
shoot the show for the aforementioned media and that you need a ticket and a
photo pass. Ask them what the photo restrictions are. This alone will make you
sound like a pro. Do not sell yourself. They don't care who you are as long as
you have a media affiliation; unless of course you are a notorious concert
shooter know to them.
3: At the venue, you will deal with the PROMOTER who doesn't always like
photographers, especially if you're dealing with Clear Channel. Don't take
anything personally. Just in case there's a problem at will call, where you
would retrieve your pass and ticket, make sure to bring a print out of your
e-mail exchange with the publicist. You will need to show this to the TOUR
MANAGER. The promoter will have no idea who the publicist is.
4: Most bands in larger venues have a first 3 songs only, no flash rule. If you
have a photo pass but no ticket, you will probably get escorted out after. If
you have a ticket, you will be asked to secure your gear back in your car or in
the security office of the venue. Don't [whine], don't negotiate. That's how it
is.
5: make sure to follow up with the PUBLICITY DEPARTMENT after the show once the
coverage is out. A thank you note never hurts. They are middle men (and women),
and like to feel appreciated. In addition, if you distinguish yourself without
kissing too much [tail], they will make it very smooth for you the next time
around.
Article submitted by Los Angeles Photographer Stan Kind