Live Music Photography: Concert Capture Tips

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 8 min read

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner eager to dive into the vibrant world of concert photography, this guide is for you. We'll cover everything from selecting the right gear to networking with industry pros to help you capture stunning live music photos. So, let's dive in and turn up the volume on your concert photography skills!

1. Choose the Right Gear

Choosing the right gear is the first step in concert photography. The equipment you use will greatly influence the quality of your photographs. Let's look at the different types of cameras, lenses, and other tools you'll need.

DSLR vs Mirrorless: Which is Better?

Both DSLRs and mirrorless cameras have their merits in the world of concert photography. DSLRs, such as the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, are known for their superior battery life and extensive lens options. Mirrorless cameras, like the Sony Alpha A7 III, are lighter and quieter, making them a less intrusive option during live performances. When choosing between the two, consider your personal comfort, the camera's low-light performance, and your budget.

Lenses for Live Music Photography

When it comes to lenses, a fast lens with a wide aperture (think f/2.8 or lower) is a must for concert photography. This allows more light into your camera, which is especially helpful in the typically low-light conditions of a concert venue. Prime lenses, such as the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G, offer excellent image quality and low-light performance. Zoom lenses, like the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM, offer more flexibility in composing your shots.

Other Essential Equipment

Beyond your camera and lens, other items can enhance your concert photography. A sturdy monopod can provide stability in crowded venues. Extra batteries and memory cards are a must, as concert photography can quickly drain your resources. It's also worth carrying a lens cleaning kit to keep your gear in top shape amidst the hustle and bustle of live events.

Remember, while the right gear can facilitate great shots, it's your skill and creativity that truly make for captivating concert photography.

2. Know the Venue

Understanding your surroundings is a key aspect of concert photography. Knowing the venue can help you plan your shots, navigate the space more efficiently, and anticipate potential lighting conditions.

Research the Venue

Before the concert, do some research on the venue. Look for photos of previous concerts held there—this can give you an idea of the stage layout, the lighting system, and the overall vibe of the place. Take note of key features such as balconies, stage height, and barriers that could impact your shooting angles. If the venue is The Fillmore in San Francisco or Madison Square Garden in New York City, for example, you'll find plenty of images and information online to use as a reference.

Scout the Location

If possible, arrive early to scout the location personally. Walk around the venue to familiarize yourself with the layout. Identify any obstacles and find the best spots to shoot from. Keep an eye out for unique angles that could result in interesting shots. Is there a spot where you can capture the crowd's reaction along with the band? Can you get a bird's eye view from a balcony? The more familiar you are with the venue, the more prepared you'll be when the concert begins.

Remember, you're not just capturing the performers; you're capturing the atmosphere of the venue and the energy of the concert. The better you know the venue, the better you can convey this in your concert photography.

3. Master the Lighting

Lighting is a critical element in concert photography. It sets the mood, creates drama, and can turn a good shot into a great one. However, lighting at concerts can also be unpredictable and challenging to work with. Here's how you can navigate it:

Understanding Stage Lighting

Stage lighting can vary significantly from one concert to another. Some venues might have a simple setup with a few static lights, while others might have a complex system with moving lights, strobes, and colored gels. Understanding how these different lighting elements work can help you anticipate changes and adjust your camera settings accordingly.

For instance, red lights can be tricky to work with in concert photography—they tend to oversaturate the image and lose detail. Being aware of this, you can adjust your camera settings or position to mitigate the impact. Similarly, sudden bright lights can wash out your subject, so be ready to quickly change your exposure settings when needed.

Using Flash in Concert Photography

While flash can be a useful tool in many types of photography, it's generally considered a no-no in concert photography. Not only can it be distracting for the performers and the audience, but it also takes away from the natural lighting atmosphere that makes concert photography so unique.

However, this doesn't mean you should never use flash. There can be instances where a well-placed flash can add a creative touch to your image. But remember to use it sparingly, and always respect the rules of the venue and the preferences of the performers.

Mastering the lighting can be a challenge, but it's also what makes concert photography so dynamic and rewarding. So, embrace the challenge, experiment, and learn from each experience.

4. Capture the Moment

As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. In concert photography, this couldn't be more true. Your goal as a concert photographer is not only to capture beautiful images but also to tell a story. So how do you go about capturing those magical moments? Let's delve into it.

Anticipate the Action

Concerts are dynamic events. Musicians move around the stage, interact with each other, and engage with the crowd. Anticipating these moments can make the difference between a good shot and a great one.

Pay attention to the rhythm of the music—it can often provide cues to when a musician might make a dramatic gesture or when the lights might change. Also, observe the performers. Some are predictable in their movements and expressions, which can help you anticipate where to focus your lens.

Focus on Emotions

Concerts are filled with emotions. Excitement, joy, passion—it's all there, and it's all part of the story you're trying to capture. Focusing on these emotions can create powerful, evocative images that resonate with viewers.

A singer lost in the emotion of a ballad, a guitarist in the throes of a killer solo, the ecstatic reaction of the crowd—these are the moments that make concert photography so captivating. So, keep your eye on the viewfinder and your finger on the shutter button, ready to capture these fleeting moments.

Remember, concert photography is as much about feeling as it is about seeing. So, immerse yourself in the music, let it move you, and let it guide your photography.

5. Post-Process Your Photos

Once the concert's over and you've captured hundreds, maybe thousands, of images, your work is just beginning. Welcome to the world of post-processing, where your raw photos transform into polished, shareable works of art.

Editing Software Options

There are many software options available for editing your concert photos. Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop are two of the most popular choices among professionals. Lightroom is excellent for editing batches of photos, while Photoshop offers advanced tools for fine-tuning individual images. Other options include Capture One, GIMP, and DxO PhotoLab. Experiment with different software to find what meets your concert photography needs best.

Basic Editing Techniques

Post-processing concert photos can be a bit challenging due to the unique lighting conditions, but a few basic edits can make a big difference. Start by adjusting the exposure, contrast, and white balance to get the overall look you want. From there, you might want to tweak the highlights and shadows, adjust the saturation or vibrancy, and sharpen the image. Remember, the goal is to enhance the photo without overdoing it.

Advanced Editing Techniques

Once you're comfortable with the basics, you can explore more advanced editing techniques. This might include using masks to apply edits to specific parts of an image, removing distracting elements with the clone stamp tool, or even combining multiple images to create a composite. These techniques require more time and skill, but they can help you take your concert photography to the next level.

Post-processing is a vital part of concert photography. It's the final step in telling the story of the concert, allowing you to enhance the mood, highlight the emotion, and bring your creative vision to life.

6. Build a Portfolio

As a concert photographer, your portfolio is your calling card. It showcases your style, your skills, and your ability to capture the energy and emotion of live music. But how do you create a portfolio that truly stands out?

Selecting Your Best Work

First and foremost, your portfolio should only include your best work. This isn't a place for every single concert photo you've ever taken. Instead, carefully select the images that best represent your abilities. Ask yourself: Does this photo capture a unique moment or emotion? Does it demonstrate a particular skill or technique? Does it fit with the overall style and theme of my portfolio? If the answer is yes, it's a keeper.

Creating a Website

Once you've selected your best work, it's time to create a website to showcase your portfolio. There are many website builders out there, like Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress, that offer user-friendly interfaces and customizable design templates. Make sure your website is easy to navigate, mobile-friendly, and reflects your personal style. Include an "About Me" section where you share your story, your approach to concert photography, and any notable gigs or achievements. And don't forget to include contact information so potential clients can easily reach you.

A well-crafted portfolio can open doors and lead to exciting opportunities in the concert photography world. Remember, your portfolio is a reflection of you as a photographer—it's your chance to show the world what you're capable of and the unique perspective you bring to live music photography.

7. Network with Industry Professionals

Now that you've built a stunning portfolio, it's time to get it in front of the right people. Networking is a key part of building a successful career in concert photography. It can lead to valuable opportunities, collaborations, and friendships within the industry. So, where do you start?

Building Relationships with Bands

Start by building relationships with the bands you photograph. Reach out to them after the show, share your photos, and express your interest in working with them again. Bands are always on the lookout for quality concert photography to use for their promotional materials, so this can be a mutually beneficial relationship. Attend local gigs, music festivals, and industry events to meet more musicians and industry professionals. The more folks you know, the better.

Connecting with Other Photographers

Don't limit your network to musicians. Other concert photographers can be a great source of support, advice, and opportunities. Join photography groups, attend workshops, or engage on online platforms like Instagram or photography forums. Learning from one another, sharing experiences, and even collaborating on projects can enrich your skills and perspectives in concert photography.

Remember, networking is about building genuine relationships, not just handing out business cards. Be authentic, show interest in others' work, and be ready to lend a hand when you can. The world of concert photography may be competitive, but there's also a strong sense of community. Being a part of that community can only benefit you and your career.

If you're eager to dive deeper into the world of live music photography, don't miss Gabriella's workshop, 'Concert Photography - Everything You Need to Get Started'. This workshop will guide you through the essentials of capturing stunning concert images and help kickstart your journey as a concert photographer.