I get asked a lot by people about how I got started as a photographer and how I’m able to shoot all these shows. To be honest, it really isn’t that hard; in fact, this might be the easiest part.
I would like to preface the importance of knowing your intentions and end game for being a music photographer. Are you only in it for free admission to shows or are you truly passionate about being a part of this industry? The field is already saturated enough, and to be able to get far, you need to know where the finish line is.
How To Get Started
You need to build a portfolio with your best work. This can be Instagram, your own independent website or use a subdomain from a popular website builder. Your initial work can be anything, portraits or lifestyle and more, as long as it displays your skillset. It all comes down to actively shooting photos, learning basic editing, and networking.
Some people do it all by themselves while others choose to meet people who can help provide those first opportunities to shoot. If you want to shoot at shows to enhance your portfolio, your first step is networking with the local promoters and venues. Ask how you can be of value to them, either as part of their team or as a fan/music lover, then start creating.
How To Shoot At A Concert
To reach out about covering a show, you’d want to direct your email to the artist’s management or publicist. Most of this information can be found online. Also, a seemingly stupid but important tip is knowing how to send out a professional email that’s relatively short and concise. A good or bad email can make a big difference and may increase or decrease your chances of getting a pass. If you don’t know what this looks like, send us a DM on Instagram and we’ll help you out.
Now let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of when you’re at a show.
Something that I’ve seen, that other photographers do is to familiarize themselves with the venue. They meet the security, being friendly with them. I don’t personally go out of my way to befriend them, but the general idea is to be on good terms since you’re bound to see these people again.
This goes for photographers as well. It’s always a good idea to be friendly to other photographers that you meet. The music photography industry is smaller than you think, and you’ll run into many of the same people at future shows again. Follow basic pit etiquettes to avoid a bad impression and potential conflict with other photographers.
Other Tips & Pointers
Connections are a big part of being a music photographer. Who you know combined with who they know, will often present major opportunities and open doors. Making a lasting impression on the artists you’re shooting is a vital piece to progressing as a music photographer.
My tip for other photographers is to not try to force a connection or friendship with artists. Let things happen naturally. One way you can do this is to make sure that you enjoy the artist you’re working with so that you are passionate and devoted to the work being produced. Don’t fret if you don’t have a consistent artist to work with yet. It’s more important for you to focus on releasing your best works.
Being a music photographer can also be difficult due to the window of time where the pictures perform best online. I follow the rule of having pictures from a show done within a week, and within 24 to 72 hrs on special occasions. People care most about the pictures within the first couple of days (even hours), and that’s when those images matter the most. Creating a consistent and efficient workflow will help others trust you, plus it’s a good foundation to establish.
For all the women who are reading this, you might get offered shortcuts here and there in exchange for favors and more. I strongly encourage you not to take many of them. Nothing worthwhile comes easy. It’s a better idea to progress through the industry with transparency, honesty, and integrity. Shortcuts in the music industry typically don’t end well.
To end it all on a high note, I wouldn’t worry about the rate you’re progressing, as long as you’re putting out your best work and seeing growth. I am here to reassure you that great things are ahead and that you just have to continue working hard. Good luck to all of you in this tough field and I hope you find what you’re looking for.
