I am really into photography and want to go to some concerts and take pictures. I have a dslr and everything. I am going to a one direction concert in the summer and really would like to bring my camera. I was planning to get some experience with photographing concerts then get a job taking pictures for a local radio station of something so I could get a press pass. I am 15 would they allow me to have one? Thanks!
I don't understand why new photographers gravitate towards Music Photography but here's the jist of it. 1.To shoot music, you must first understand light and what it does under specific camera settings and then master that. Unless you are working for the band, you have 3 songs to get your shots for publication. And these shots need to be good or you're never going to work for that publication again. Music photography is a small very small business, but there are 100 other photographers who want to be where you are, and you are replaceable. 2. Unless you're working for a publication you won't be able to get a press pass. Because of your age you won't be able to get into Bars to build of a portfolio, and judging by your taste of music (from what you showed us) you won't be going to a local post-hardcore show where you will be able to bring your camera into. 3. Keep at it with photography, go to shows (you don't need to like the music to shoot it), make connections, and then capitalize on those. The music industry is a tough place for a women, but keep at it. Hard work pays off.
You have three problems here: 1) Your age works against you, as the first answer said 2) It is likely that you won't be allowed to bring a DSLR into a concert. 3) By the time you're old enough to be looking at a concert photography job, One Direction will have been long forgotten...fortunately.
Sierra, unless you are already very talented...no one will entertain your desire for a press pass. At an event there is a lot that goes on in the background...the last thing anyone needs is an inexperienced photographer getting in the way. Every teenager dreams of what you are asking...the reality is that photography isn't as glamorous as you imagine...it's hard graft. For a press pass you would be expected to have a complete understanding of photography techniques...it would also help if you had some evidence to support your experience...like student ID...an evening or weekend class in photography would be a great place to start...this helps you meet people that can guide you towards the best route for your goals...camera clubs and photography groups are also a great source of advice and experience...great for building contacts that might be useful in the future. If you want to learn how to photograph concerts or gigs then keep your eyes and ears open for local community events and use these for practice...my reasoning for this is...it helps you realise exactly what goes on in the background to support an event...if you can manage to pull off some decent shots it helps build a portfolio at the same time...if you can't get the shots you dream about then you wouldn't manage to get them at one of your idols concerts either...and you might want to consider your next scheme. If you are determined to go in this direction then ask one of your teachers to help you with your approach and contact a local community newspaper to ask if there would be any chance you could shadow one of their photographers...even a church newsletter is worthwhile experience if it uses your images...you need to start somewhere...not many 15 year olds start with getting a press pass.
At age 15, no. They do know that you're too young to be employed by a newspaper or magazine. Press passes are given to those who are doing paid gigs with articles for publication. Local radio is not going to use much for visuals, tv or newspapers or even locally published magazines would but radio, by definition, is sound based. Their own staff take the images they need for their station's website. I'd say try asking about internships (they're generally unpaid volunteer work) but you're too young to employ even with a work permit. You have to be 16 in most states to have one of those.
If you do manage to get a press pass (unlikely, see answers above) then you must practice camerawork at simlar gigs before you go to the concert. Local bands, local discos, anywhere that has passable lighting effects and has live musicians playing. That will help you not waste your time whe 1 D are on stage. Make sure your batteery is fully charged, and that your camera memory card has plenty of space. One further tip, sorry to have to mention it. Dress fairly soberly, and wear slacks, not a dress or skirt. If you are on your own backstage you will be sexually vulnerable.
