Top Tips for Photographing Live Music in Venues of All Sizes: Essential Guide for Concert Photographers

Happy Landing / Photo by Stephanie Heath / Smiling Eyes Media

Top Tips for Photographing Live Music in Venues of All Sizes

As a music photographer, capturing the energy of a live performance is one of the most exhilarating experiences. But let’s be real: it can be a challenge to photograph live music, especially in unpredictable lighting or tight spaces! Whether you're shooting in a small club, a mid-sized theater, or a huge festival stage, having a clear strategy makes all the difference.

Here's a guide packed with concert photography tips to help you get amazing shots in any setting. Let’s dive into the essentials—from packing your gear to positioning yourself for the best angles.

Laura Lee from Khruangbin / Photo by Stephanie Heath / Smiling Eyes Media

Packing Essentials for Live Music Photography

Preparing for a live music photoshoot means making sure you have everything you need to capture the best shots without missing a beat. Here are the key items to pack:

• Camera Body: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with low-light capabilities is ideal for live music photography.

• Lenses: Bring a selection, like a 70-200mm lens for close-ups, and a 24-70mm zoom lens for wider shots. Fast lenses with wide apertures (like f/1.8 or f/2.8) will help you handle low light.

• Extra Batteries and Memory Cards: Concerts are unpredictable, so always pack spares.

• Ear Protection: Essential if you’re frequently near loudspeakers.

• Notebook or Phone for Notes: Keep track of the setlist, performance notes, or interesting lighting changes that may help with post-editing.

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Megan Thee Stallion / Photo by Stephanie Heath / Smiling Eyes Media

Setting Up Your Gear: Tips for Live Music Photography

Your camera settings are crucial for concert photography. Lighting can be inconsistent, so be prepared to adjust on the fly. Here are some foundational settings to consider:

• Use Manual Mode: It gives you full control over exposure and allows quick adjustments to changing light.

• ISO Settings: Start around 1600 or 3200 in low light, but be mindful of potential grain. Experiment and adjust as the venue lighting allows.

• Shutter Speed: Aim for a fast shutter speed (1/250 or faster) to freeze movement, especially with energetic performers.

• Aperture: Choose a wide aperture to create beautiful bokeh and separate the subject from the background.

Remember, the more familiar you are with your settings, the quicker you can capture great shots as the performance unfolds.

Kacey Musgraves / Photo by Stephanie Heath / Smiling Eyes Media

Positioning Yourself for Success in Every Venue

Positioning is crucial for capturing the best angles and moments in concert photography. Here’s how to maximize your vantage point in different venues:

• Small Clubs and Bars: In intimate venues, be mindful of the crowd. Moving around discreetly lets you capture both close-ups of the performers and wide shots of the atmosphere.

• Theaters and Mid-Sized Venues: With more room, find spots along the sides or near the soundboard. Consider using a telephoto lens to capture close-ups without disturbing the audience.

• Festivals and Outdoor Stages: Arrive early to scout the area. Outdoor stages offer more freedom, so consider experimenting with unique angles like shooting from a lower or elevated position.

Remember to respect the audience and avoid obstructing their view whenever possible.

Neal Francis / Photo by Stephanie Heath / Smiling Eyes Media

Hiatus Kaiyote: 14-24mm lens at the top row

Mastering Lighting Challenges in Concert Photography

Concert lighting can change in an instant—from vibrant stage lights to dimly lit moments and quick flashes of color—creating both opportunities and challenges for concert photographers. Successfully adapting to these lighting changes is essential for capturing unforgettable concert photos.

When it comes to stage lighting, anticipate the light patterns and adjust your settings quickly to match the mood and energy of the performance. Aim to capture peak moments when the stage is fully illuminated, which allows for clear, vibrant images. Low-light photography tips for concerts often include raising the ISO or switching to a fast lens. Embrace the artistic potential of low-light settings, as the graininess and shadows can add an authentic, raw quality to your concert photos.

While flash photography can sometimes solve low-light challenges, most concert venues restrict flash use to preserve the natural atmosphere of the show and avoid disrupting the performers and audience. Instead, rely on the venue’s lighting, experimenting with creative settings to get the best shots.

Bad Guru / Photo by Stephanie Heath / Smiling Eyes Media

Flash Photography in Concert Photography

In cases where flash photography is permitted, it can help fill in shadows and enhance details in very dark settings. However, using a flash in concert photography comes with pros and cons. Advantages of flash photography include better lighting for dark environments, reduced image noise, and simpler editing. On the downside, flash can be distracting for both the performers and the audience, so always confirm with your venue contact before using it.

If I need to use a flash, I opt for a 24-70mm lens to allow flexibility from wide to zoom shots, or occasionally a 14-24mm wide-angle lens for crowd scenes or capturing the full stage. Be cautious with wide lenses like the 14-24mm; while they offer great coverage, they can cause body distortion, which may not be ideal for every shot.

By thoughtfully considering whether flash is necessary, you can enhance your concert photography while respecting the environment and experience of live music.

Teskey Brothers / Photo by Stephanie Heath / Smiling Eyes Media

Bad Guru / Photo by Stephanie Heath / Smiling Eyes Media

Communicating with Venue Staff and Artists

Before each shoot, it’s wise to communicate with the venue staff and artists if possible. Get clarity on any photography restrictions, stage access, or potential timing cues. Building a rapport with staff not only helps with smoother access but can also provide unexpected vantage points.

Taking Back Sunday: 24-70mm from the photo pit

Editing Your Live Music Photos: A Key Part of Concert Photography

Once you’ve captured the magic of the show, it’s time to edit. Here are a few editing tips to enhance your photos:

• Increase Contrast and Vibrancy: This helps bring out the stage lights and make performers pop.

• Reduce Noise: Especially useful if you have to shoot with high ISO. Programs like Lightroom or Photoshop have tools specifically for noise reduction.

• Crop Strategically: Don’t be afraid to crop to emphasize your subject, removing distractions or enhancing the composition.

With these tips, you’ll be able to elevate your photos and convey the energy of the performance!