6 Tips to Start Your Concert Photography Journey
Panic! at the Disco at Madison Square Garden
Begin modestly and think creatively
My path began when I couldn’t buy a ticket to watch one of my favorite bands, Streetlight Manifesto, while I was in college. I had recently gotten a camera so I decided to take a shot (no pun intended) and emailed the band, asking if they would include me on the guest list in return for the photographs I took during their concert. Despite my amateur status, they agreed to let me attend, marking the start of my thrilling adventure in concert photography.
Tip: Approach local bands and propose your services. This can aid you in gaining experience and developing your portfolio.
Become part of an online publication
Following my photography experience with Streetlight Manifesto, I became a member of a small online publication (now defunct) called Circles and Soundwaves. This association granted me access to additional concerts and helped me expand my portfolio. It also facilitated networking with fellow photographers and music aficionados.
Tip: Look for online music publications or blogs in your area and volunteer your photography expertise.
Lawrence playing Webster Hall years before they were playing on National TV
Focus on smaller venues
I began my journey by photographing concerts at smaller venues, such as The Studio at Webster Hall in NYC, where bands appreciated receiving quality photos and no one at the venue cared if someone brought a camera in (even without a photo pass). This autonomy allowed me to experiment with various techniques and angles, even venturing onto the stage at times (though definitely don't do this without permission).
Tip: Concentrate on building your portfolio and reputation by photographing smaller gigs and local bands. This will enable you to gain valuable experience and establish credibility in the industry.
Paradise Fears at The Studio at Webster Hall
Launch your own publication (or work with a bigger publication)
As my portfolio expanded, I decided to establish my own online publication, Behind the Scene Press. This decision not only granted me greater control over my work but also enabled me to assemble a team of skilled photographers and writers to work with and gain inspiration from.
Tip: Join forces with other creatives in the field
Blink-182 at Jones Beach Theater
Move onto larger concerts and venues
With an ever-growing portfolio and reputation, I gained access to more prominent concerts and venues, such as Madison Square Garden. Bands began to approach me for my photography services, and my network continued to broaden.
Tip: Persistently challenge yourself to cover larger events and concerts as your portfolio and experience expand.
Paramore at Barclays Center
Capitalize on your connections
A few years later, a college connection who worked at Carnegie Hall reached out to me regarding a job opportunity. I had to submit my portfolio and interview but ultimately I got the job. This resulted in me photographing concerts at esteemed venues like Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, unlocking additional opportunities within the concert photography realm.
Tip: Foster your connections and establish relationships with individuals in the music and photography sectors. Opportunities may emerge when you least expect them!
In essence, the path to becoming a thriving concert photographer entails starting small and crafting a robust portfolio. Concentrate on capturing outstanding images of local bands and events and solidify your reputation in the industry. Bear in mind that progress may be gradual, but with perseverance and enthusiasm (and a lot of late nights and hard work), you may eventually find yourself photographing concerts at iconic venues, realizing your dream as a concert photographer!
