Concert Photography Techniques

Spring is finally here, which means your favorite bands are gearing up for tour. But what does this mean for you photographers out there? Consider this an opportunity to become part of the action! Concert Photography is not only for the experts; anyone can participate. I will guide you through the basic techniques used to photograph bands on stage, producing pictures similar to the ones below.

Photo by Matt Platz. Tim McIlrath of Rise Against (Click to Enlarge)

Use Manual Mode

I have been in the habit of linking you to Cambridge in Colour’s explanation of Shutter Speed, Aperture, and ISO. Understanding how these three camera settings impact your photograph is important to Concert Photography. The action on stage can happen very fast, and knowing how to quickly adjust these settings will result in better quality images.

The use of automatic settings is not recommended. The constant fluctuation of stage lighting may cause your camera to choose poor settings, ruining your photographs. Switch your camera to Manual Mode by turning your dial to M and follow my recommendations below for indoor concerts. (If the concert is taking place outdoors, visit SLR Lounge for more information on outdoor photography.)

Camera Modes

ISO Recommendations

As I mentioned in my previous blog post called The Streaking Light Effect, your camera will have ISO numbers ranging anywhere from 100-6400 and up. The lower the number, the less digital noise will be present in your photograph.

Typically, the range in ISO that I have found to be acceptable during an indoor concert is anywhere between 100 and 400. Digital noise starts to become more apparent at ISO 400, so I would advise against using a higher number.

ISO: Digital Noise

Aperture Recommendations

Choosing an aperture number is mostly an artistic decision. Depending on the type of shot you are going for will determine the aperture number you will choose. If you are shooting close up portraits of each band member on stage, then you might choose a lower aperture number to blur the background. If you are capturing an image of the audience or the entire stage, you might want to choose a higher aperture number to keep everyone in focus.

Photo by Matt Platz: The Rave in Milwaukee, WI (Click to Enlarge)

Shutter Speed Recommendations

The shutter speed you choose is situational. If you are photographing a rock band who tends to run around on stage, then you may want to choose a higher shutter speed to freeze their movement. If you are photographing a mellow acoustic band who sits on chairs the entire concert, then you could possibly get away with a slower shutter speed.

Generally, the slowest shutter speed you should use during handheld shooting is 1/50. This will eliminate any motion blur caused by holding and handling your camera.

Photo by Matt Platz. Zach Blair of Rise Against (Click to Enlarge)

The Photo Pass

So what takes photographers behind the scenes at some of the most exclusive events? The Photo Pass! This is essentially their VIP ticket that allows them past the gates and into the heart of the action.

If your event requires a Photo Pass, visit IShootShows for excellent advice about securing your spot as a photographer at a concert.

Photo Pass

Four Steps for Concert Photography

Now that you know more information about Concert Photography, here are four simple steps you can follow to help guide you through the photography process of a concert:

1. Select a lower ISO

2. Choose an aperture number for your situation

3. Choose a shutter speed above 1/50

4. Take as many pictures as you can!

Call to Action!

Now that you understand how to photograph a concert, go out and give it a try! Post in the comments what band you will be photographing, and offer any feedback for people trying this for the first time!

Send your pictures to mattplatz@hotmail.com and I will feature them on my blog!

Tune in next week for useful techniques on photographing for time lapses!