Mmmkay, folks! Recently, I've been getting tons of questions regarding my job so I'm going to just answer it in one place for those of you who are curious. If you're looking for advice, I hope this helps. I know that I usually look mean and unapproachable when I'm shooting at shows but I promise that's just because I'm super focused. You can always come up to me at shows and talk or ask for advice or whatever- I love meeting you guys. FYI, I feel like my current demographic is mostly comprised of people who have never shot a show or have very minimal experience so that's who this is aimed for!
Rule number one: don't be a jerk. Never forget that.
You can't just waltz into a major show expecting a photo pass. Start locally. Many dive bars and local concerts don't mind if you bring in your camera. You should build up a portfolio of artists that are easily accessible.
Make yourself a website with your work. There are tons of free hosts (like Wordpress). Get a professional email address and make social media accounts dedicated to your photography. Having all that to show to potential clients makes a world of difference in getting the job or not.
Everything is about connections. Be kind to everyone you meet- you never know that kind of strings they can pull for you. When you meet people, make them remember your name. Business cards are a grand idea.
Work on getting yourself onto a publication's team. A publication is like a magazine or an outlet. Aside from a select few, most of the festivals and major shows that I've shot have been because I work for magazines. Getting onto a publication's team is so much easier than most people think. I emailed eight publications and was on three new teams within 48 hours. It's not hard and it shouldn't scare you. Simply Google "{music genre} music publications". Browse through websites and figure out what you like and go from there. Find a contact, typically under the "Contact" or "About Us" tab then shoot the publication an email. Include in your email a kind greeting, a short introduction of yourself, where you're based, a link to your portfolio and that you can send them more information if they need it.
Keep digital communication short and sweet. No one wants to read something as long as this blog (except you guys because you looove me and want to learn from my wise little brain).
You don't need a $3,000 camera body and a $1,000 lens to take good photos. You need talent and passion. The usual rig that I use for shows costs less than $800. I don't want to get into a gear breakdown right now but if there's one thing you should take to every show, it's earplugs. I have tinnitus so when I first started shooting, I didn't care too much about looking out for my hearing but honestly, shooting for hours on end in front of those super loud speakers on stage es no bueno for your ears. I usually use the squishy little cheap ones or a pair of tactical ear plugs. You will thank yourself in 20 years when you can still hear.
When shooting from the crowd, be respectful of the fans. Try not to get in their way and if you do want to shoot from their spot, just kindly ask. Never go anywhere in the venue without permission. That's a super easy way to get in a heck of a lot of trouble- and possibly dangerous situations.
You have to figure things out some things for yourself. The music industry and the photography business are both extremely tough. Combining them? Even harder, but doable. If you truly believe in yourself, follow your dreams and hustle, you will make it.
If there are any questions you still have, drop them below or reach out to me via social media and I'll get them answered!