Guide: Shooting Concerts on Film
MUNA By Madeline Walczak
SHOOTING ON FILM presents its own set of challenges and limitations, but the beautiful nature and feel of it always make it worth it. Concerts tend to present an added layer of challenges and a new level of uncertainty that sure can cause some anxiety, but it’s an area of photography that is incredibly rewarding. Shooting from the photo pit is an incredible experience and serves as a wonderful opportunity to expand your portfolio in the music sector.
As shows open up and we can get back to live shows, many photographers have the opportunity to get in the photo pit for the first time. Here’s some tips to ease any first-time anxieties and get you prepped for a great show!
Get Familiar
Regardless of what setting you’re in, your advantage will always be the knowledge you have for your gear. Whether you’re working with an SLR and need to know all the settings or you’re going with your good old point and shoot, make sure you know your camera like the back of your hand. Photographer Isabell Dowell notes, “You don’t want to waste your time figuring out what f/stop to use or how fast your speed is, so know everything inside and out.”
If you can, try to attend a show at the venue you’ll be shooting to ahead of time to get a better sense of what you’re getting yourself into in terms of lighting, spacing and overall navigating the space. Take note as to if they have a photo pit, if there are any good views from the crowd you can snap pictures from and even non-photography related things like parking so you can be stress-free when it comes to shooting a show.
Choose the Right Film
Ian Sweet By Sasha Gerber
The mix between low lighting and often backlit bright lighting doesn’t make for an ideal shooting setting but don’t be afraid. You can definitely still stick with fan favorites like Kodak Portra 400, but it’s worth exploring films with higher ISO, like Cinestill 800 or Portra 800. Make sure your both your camera and photo lab are equipt to handle whichever film you choose. Experiment with bumping up the ISO of whatever film if your camera allows, but once again make sure your lab is able to do so.
Confirm, Confirm, Confirm!
Alexander23 by Isabel Dowell
There are few things worst than not being on the list when you’re supposed to, so if you’ve gotten a photo pass from the artist or venue, double check that you’re on the list with the proper credentials to avoid any last minute situations that tend to leave you frazzled. Don’t wait to arrive till the last minute before the set you’re supposed to shoot just incase it takes longer than expected to get in. Most venues allow you to shoot the first three songs (no flash!), so every minute counts.
Look For Photos That Aren’t Just The Stage.
Everything from the marquee to people in the crowd can be a great opportunity for photos aside from the stage itself. Depending on the nature of the show and the artist you’re shooting, it can be worth asking if they’re available before or after the show for some quick portraits. This relieves the worry of “what if I don’t have any usable shots” and is a great way to get in some good pics.
Visualize and Frame Your Shot.
Omar Apollo By Athena Merry
When the lights dim and the curtain comes up don’t panic! Craft your shot as you would with any shoot and consider snapped a few in the same spot in case one doesn’t come out. Try to get most of your shots in when the lighting is on the brighter end and your subject has limited movement. Make sure not to stay in the same spot and allow other photographers in the pit to get their shot as well.
Have Fun and Experiment!
Big Thief By Jacob Dapper
Film photography is ultimately about experimentation and finding what works best for you. Don’t be discouraged if you get your first roll back from a show and only a handful of shots are usable. Overtime you’ll learn what gear and film are best for you and you're sure to pick up your own best practices. Start shooting at local venues and with smaller bands to get more comfortable and soon enough you’ll feel at ease in the pit.
