From Fan to Fotog: Mastering the Art of Concert Photography

The music pumps, the crowd roars, and the stage lights cast an electrifying glow. It's a concert, a night of pure energy. But for some, it's also an opportunity to capture the magic in a different way: through the lens. Concert photography is a unique and thrilling discipline, demanding quick reflexes, an understanding of low-light settings, and the ability to capture fleeting moments of raw emotion.

So, you're ready to ditch the audience singalong and grab your camera instead? Here's a crash course to get you started:

Gear Up for Low Light:

Concert venues are notoriously dim. Ditch the flash (it'll annoy everyone, including the performers), and embrace a fast prime lens (f/1.8 or lower) to let in more light. A high ISO will also be your friend, but be mindful of grain at higher settings. Take into account any stage lasers, lighting or even sparks you could use to light up your subject.

Rabbit in the Moon performing at Insomniac's NYE Countdown celebration in San Bernardino, CA

Finding the Perfect Spot:

Mosh pits might be fun, but not for photography. Ideally, you'll want to be near the front with a clear view of the stage. Talk to security beforehand and explain your purpose (don't forget a photo pass if required!).

Capturing the Energy:

Fast shutter speeds are crucial for freezing motion. Aim for 1/250th or higher to avoid blurry shots of jumping musicians and headbanging fans. Wait for the artist to approach you to get intimate shots directed towards your lens. Don't be afraid to experiment with panning techniques to create a sense of movement.

This image of Billy Strings was shot on a FE70-200mm lens, F2.8, f/3.5 and 1/8000 second shutter speed

Beyond the Stage:

The concert experience extends beyond the performers. Capture the crowd's energy, the stage lights reflecting off faces, and the raw emotions of the music. Look for interesting compositions and tell a story with your photos.

Post-Processing Magic:

Concert photos often benefit from a touch of post-processing magic. Enhance the colors, adjust white balance to match the stage lighting, and add a touch of grit or vibrance to match the concert's mood.

I've found that low light / shutter speed photos that turn out blurry look especially dope in B&W

Respect the Artist and the Audience:

Be mindful of the performers and other photographers. Avoid blocking their views and don't constantly fire off flashes. Remember, you're there to capture the experience for everyone, not just yourself.

Concert photography is an exhilarating challenge, a blend of technical skill and artistic vision. Embrace learning experiences that feel like they're mistakes (trust me, their not!), vibe with the energy of the crowd, artists and fellow photogs, and you'll surely be rewarded with some amazing shots for your portfolio.