9 answers
Orion
Student
Rock Hill, South Carolina
10
Questions
Asked
1475 views
how do you get started as a band photographer?
I want to be a photographer for concerts, but I have no idea on how to get started, what would you say are the best tips for getting started in doing something like that. :)
Login to comment
9 answers
Zoie Bleau
Assembly and Test Technician
1
Answer
Worcester, Massachusetts
Updated
Zoie’s Answer
Orion, see if there are any local resources/classes on photography or related subjects. Many community colleges offer art classes that cover a wide range of topics. YouTube is also a great place to start with tutorials, these can be very useful especially for camera settings for specific makes and models. Know your equipment inside and out and it will elevate your craft. Many creators are surprisingly available for questions and networking as well. Art is a community after all - good luck!
Jeff Ball
Data Scientist
14
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Hi Orion,
I like the answers already provided and thought I would provide a different perspective. I'm not a photographer, but I've played in live bands for years. From my experience, we would typically have at least one (and sometimes two or three) photographers at a gig. They weren't hired by ourselves or from the venue; they were doing this on their own time. And, we would get to know some of the photographers if we saw them at several shows. We typically didn't hire photographers, but the benefit for them was 1) as we got to know them, we'd be willing to take posed photos or let them take photos from the side of the stage and 2) the photographers were building their portfolios. My recommendation is to go to some local gigs at smaller venues, take photos or videos, share them in social media with the band's hashtags, and that will open doors with some bands. Don't just follow one band; try to get a few different bands with different styles. More than likely, they'll be very willing to work with you and do things like give you poses when they see you taking a picture. (I'd mug for the camera often.) After all, you're helping their social media presence at the same time. As your portfolio grows, you can start showcasing your skills. And I agree with one of the answers that you don't need to start with fancy equipment.
Good luck and have fun!
I like the answers already provided and thought I would provide a different perspective. I'm not a photographer, but I've played in live bands for years. From my experience, we would typically have at least one (and sometimes two or three) photographers at a gig. They weren't hired by ourselves or from the venue; they were doing this on their own time. And, we would get to know some of the photographers if we saw them at several shows. We typically didn't hire photographers, but the benefit for them was 1) as we got to know them, we'd be willing to take posed photos or let them take photos from the side of the stage and 2) the photographers were building their portfolios. My recommendation is to go to some local gigs at smaller venues, take photos or videos, share them in social media with the band's hashtags, and that will open doors with some bands. Don't just follow one band; try to get a few different bands with different styles. More than likely, they'll be very willing to work with you and do things like give you poses when they see you taking a picture. (I'd mug for the camera often.) After all, you're helping their social media presence at the same time. As your portfolio grows, you can start showcasing your skills. And I agree with one of the answers that you don't need to start with fancy equipment.
Good luck and have fun!
Warren Lubow
More than 30 years in technology Industry with Over 20+ years at the Executive Level in Business Development & Sales, Also an expert in Automotive, Cloud, IoT, and more
56
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Warren’s Answer
It is always best to ask someone who is an expert already - start networking get in the right social and business Live venues local to you start small and build up to bigger venues, make connections to local bands etc.
https://www.photoworkout.com/how-to-become-a-band-photographer/
https://www.better-digital-photo-tips.com/become-a-concert-photographer.html
https://www.photoworkout.com/how-to-become-a-band-photographer/
https://www.better-digital-photo-tips.com/become-a-concert-photographer.html
Warren, thank you!
Orion
David Wuerth
Freelance Photojournalist/ Sports Photographer
114
Answers
Nampa, Idaho
Updated
David’s Answer
The first thing I'd do is research what a great concert photo looks like. You can do that on the internet by searching concert photographers. That way you will know how good your images have to be. You will have to own a decent camera and several lenses and be able to operate your gear to capture the images you see. I'd find a local band, or two, and shoot them to begin with. You can offer to trade images for the opportunity to photograph them. That way you can build a portfolio of only your very best images. A website, with your best images, will become your portfolio. Once you have some experience and some great concert images then you can look for paying jobs. You do not want to get the reputation of giving away your work for free. Now, after all that, you start marketing your self to anyone who needs concert images. That would be bands, promoters, venues, record companies and so on. You will find most of your time will be spent marketing.
Best of luck.
Best of luck.
Jeni Brown
Human Resources
9
Answers
Fort McMurray
Updated
Jeni’s Answer
Hello Orion,
Securing photography contracts can be a thrilling journey, and a robust portfolio can be your passport to success. To create a compelling portfolio, it's essential to have the right camera and lenses, especially for concert environments. The tips shared by Warren are a goldmine of advice!
Before you invest in top-tier equipment, consider exploring the myriad of photography courses and tutorials available. These resources can help sharpen your skills and bring your vision to life. Remember, the key to mastery is practice, practice, and more practice. As you accumulate a portfolio filled with stunning concert shots, you'll find more doors opening for you.
If you're already a seasoned photographer, it's time to shift your focus to networking. Local bands can be a great starting point, as they often have connections to other bands. These networks can be instrumental in propelling your career forward. Embarking on this journey to hone your skills and expand your network promises to be an exciting adventure!
Best of luck on your journey!
Securing photography contracts can be a thrilling journey, and a robust portfolio can be your passport to success. To create a compelling portfolio, it's essential to have the right camera and lenses, especially for concert environments. The tips shared by Warren are a goldmine of advice!
Before you invest in top-tier equipment, consider exploring the myriad of photography courses and tutorials available. These resources can help sharpen your skills and bring your vision to life. Remember, the key to mastery is practice, practice, and more practice. As you accumulate a portfolio filled with stunning concert shots, you'll find more doors opening for you.
If you're already a seasoned photographer, it's time to shift your focus to networking. Local bands can be a great starting point, as they often have connections to other bands. These networks can be instrumental in propelling your career forward. Embarking on this journey to hone your skills and expand your network promises to be an exciting adventure!
Best of luck on your journey!
Angie Holmes
Photographer
2
Answers
Tuscumbia, Alabama
Updated
Angie’s Answer
Photograph for free at venues that are hosting live events and performances- you can build your portfolio, experience and network from there-
When you are building up your reputation, don’t be afraid to work cheap, or at a buddy deal until you get your name out there, bc once your face and name has some recognition, you can charge your rates and pick and choose your gigs- until then, the more your put yourself out and “pay your dues” the faster you get your foot in the door-
People work with who they know - if they have seen your face,’or you worked with a venue they know well, or agent they trust, your golden ,‘that’s all they need to give you a shot !
Make a routine habit of being a regular at certain local venues -
While your doing your shots and clips, use that opportunity to meet and greet
Use a copyright release signature form - paper or digital- as a way to get your name across the ears of the performers, booking agents and venues as well as keeping legal and in good standing -
Use the opportunity to let the subjects know where they can go to find the edited content on your sites -offer them a product or service in return for the use of the publish of their image , also, ask for their work and promotion in exchange for promoting their work-
Ask to set up a shoot, and interview them, create a publication and get to know me feature to promote their talents- it’s a win-win !
When you are building up your reputation, don’t be afraid to work cheap, or at a buddy deal until you get your name out there, bc once your face and name has some recognition, you can charge your rates and pick and choose your gigs- until then, the more your put yourself out and “pay your dues” the faster you get your foot in the door-
People work with who they know - if they have seen your face,’or you worked with a venue they know well, or agent they trust, your golden ,‘that’s all they need to give you a shot !
Angie recommends the following next steps:
Annaleigh Niedzielski
Videographer, Producer, Assistant Director
65
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Annaleigh’s Answer
Hey Orion!
Getting started as a band photographer is super exciting! First, it’s essential to build a solid foundation in photography, so make sure you’re comfortable with your camera and know the basics of composition, lighting, and editing. Start by attending local shows and taking photos, even if you’re not officially working. This will help you practice and develop your style. It’s also a good idea to reach out to local bands and offer to shoot their performances for free or at a low rate; this way, you can build your portfolio and gain experience.
Once you have some solid shots, create an online portfolio or a social media account dedicated to your work to showcase your best images. Networking is crucial, so connect with musicians, promoters, and other photographers; they can often help you find more opportunities. Don’t forget to familiarize yourself with the rules of concert photography, especially regarding press passes and venue policies. As you gain more experience and build relationships, you can start applying for official gigs. Most importantly, keep experimenting and finding what you love about capturing live music—it’s all about having fun and expressing yourself through your photography!
Getting started as a band photographer is super exciting! First, it’s essential to build a solid foundation in photography, so make sure you’re comfortable with your camera and know the basics of composition, lighting, and editing. Start by attending local shows and taking photos, even if you’re not officially working. This will help you practice and develop your style. It’s also a good idea to reach out to local bands and offer to shoot their performances for free or at a low rate; this way, you can build your portfolio and gain experience.
Once you have some solid shots, create an online portfolio or a social media account dedicated to your work to showcase your best images. Networking is crucial, so connect with musicians, promoters, and other photographers; they can often help you find more opportunities. Don’t forget to familiarize yourself with the rules of concert photography, especially regarding press passes and venue policies. As you gain more experience and build relationships, you can start applying for official gigs. Most importantly, keep experimenting and finding what you love about capturing live music—it’s all about having fun and expressing yourself through your photography!
Houcine Lakhchach
Career Development Specialist | U.S Department exchange Alumnus | EFL/ESL trainer | Program manager
139
Answers
Kenitra, Gharb-Chrarda-Beni Hssen, Morocco
Updated
Houcine’s Answer
Hi Orion,
Embarking on a career as a band photographer can be exhilarating. To get started, focus on building a diverse and impressive portfolio showcasing your photography skills. If you haven't captured concerts before, include other relevant work, such as portraits or events, to highlight your technical and creative abilities. Attend local shows to gain experience and offer your services for free initially to build a network and establish credibility. Engage with local bands, introduce yourself to musicians, and express your passion for capturing live performances. Utilize social media platforms to showcase your work and connect with potential clients. As you gain more experience, consider reaching out to local publications or music blogs to offer your services, gradually expanding your reach and establishing yourself as a reputable band photographer. Remember, persistence and a genuine love for music and photography can open doors to exciting opportunities in this dynamic field.
Embarking on a career as a band photographer can be exhilarating. To get started, focus on building a diverse and impressive portfolio showcasing your photography skills. If you haven't captured concerts before, include other relevant work, such as portraits or events, to highlight your technical and creative abilities. Attend local shows to gain experience and offer your services for free initially to build a network and establish credibility. Engage with local bands, introduce yourself to musicians, and express your passion for capturing live performances. Utilize social media platforms to showcase your work and connect with potential clients. As you gain more experience, consider reaching out to local publications or music blogs to offer your services, gradually expanding your reach and establishing yourself as a reputable band photographer. Remember, persistence and a genuine love for music and photography can open doors to exciting opportunities in this dynamic field.
Amalya Sukiasyan
ESOL teacher at Washington English Center
297
Answers
Yerevan
Updated
Amalya’s Answer
In today's world, it is relatively easier to get started whatever you want. For that goal, you can use the internet as a great tool and resource. You can participate in different concerts and take impressive photos from their. Then it is a good idea to share them on social media, submit them to photography blogs and journals. After getting some reputation and experience in the field, you can also offer your paid services to others. Also, to be more professional in the field, you can get a degree in photography or take various courses to sharpen your skills.
Good luck and great photography journey to you.
Good luck and great photography journey to you.