The great stage pit etiquette guide for music photographers

In the past, I've written about the stage pit etiquette, focusing on general courtesies in music photography. These include considerations like maintaining proximity with fellow photographers, handling your gear, and moving with minimal disruption. However, the scope of concert photography etiquette extends far beyond these unspoken norms.

Moving beyond the practical tips I've shared, let's dive into some deeper aspects of stage pit (NOT “photo pit”) behavior that every music photographer should be aware of. I'm talking about the biases, and instances of disrespect that can pop up based on factors like gender, race, appearance, or even the photo gear you're lugging around. These things aren't limited to just music photography - sometimes in the stage pit, it's kinda like a mini version of the whole wide society out there.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

So, here's the deal: We, as music photographers, need to step up our game. Let's make it a goal to constantly improve our behavior and actions. Well, it kicks off with one simple thing – respect for all your fellow photographers.

Equality

When you enter the stage pit, judgments and biases should be left outside. Upon entering the stage pit, remember, everyone has equal rights to be there and perform their work. Every individual sporting a photo pass is subject to the same rules and enjoys the same access.

The camera gear, age, attire, or any other factor should hold absolutely no weight. When the show is done, it's solely the quality of the images that carries significance. That's the true measure of our work, no question about it.

Awkwardness

It might sound obvious, but let's be absolutely clear - there's no room for weird behavior in the stage pit. Photographers are there to do their job and capture great images. That's the sole focus. Nobody's looking for a date in the stage pit or wants to talk about politics, religion, etc..

Behavior

Regardless of your client, whether it's a renowned publication like The Rolling Stone or even just a very famous artist, it's crucial to recognize that your images aren't inherently more valuable than anyone else's. Gatekeepers have diligently reviewed and approved photographers across the board, from well-established daily newspapers to prestigious national and international magazines to up-and-coming blogs.

In essence, if you're not granted special access, it's because you're on the same footing as everyone else. Special access is reserved for those who genuinely hold a distinct status or role. If you were truly very special, you'd get special access pass, like "Access all areas". If you're sporting the same pass as your fellow photographers, your entitlement is no greater and no lesser than every other photographer.

“Hello… !”

It's a simple gesture, but saying "Hello!" to a fellow photographer in the stage pit you've never met before can have a significant impact. Why? Well, despite photographers often being seen as lone wolves, this is how you can begin building a sense of community and fostering camaraderie.

Moreover, connecting with other photographers can shift your perspective. Engaging in a simple chat can help dispel the notion that they're your hostile competitors. It might seem like a small change, but this can do wonders for your mental well-being.

If you spot someone new, strike up a conversation. Ask them if they've shot in that venue before or if they've seen the band perform. If you're a regular at the venue or familiar with everyone else, make an effort to talk to the unfamiliar face. And if you're the newcomer, approach someone who seems well-acquainted with others. You don't have to become best buddies with everyone in the stage pit – but why choose enmity?

Photo gear

The camera gear you bring should never dictate how you're treated in the stage pit. The way you behave and show respect to others should remain entirely separate from the cameras or lenses you use. Let's ensure that any form of prejudice, homophobia, sexism or racism disappears at the very latest when you pick up your photo pass.

We're all aware that high-end camera gear can make the job more convenient, but it doesn't automatically elevate your status and your skills as a photographer. Your true talent is demonstrated solely through the quality of your photos, not by the size of your lens.

Mansplaining

Here's a straightforward request: Men, let's put an end to doling out unsolicited photography advice to women or anyone, really. Instead of appearing helpful, it often comes across as condescending.

When it comes to evaluating a photographer's skill, there's only one thing to look at - their images. Nothing else can truly speak to their level of expertise. Not their gender, height, race, personal relationships, age, faith, or appearance. Not their publications or whether they're getting paid. Even the gear they use is beside the point.

Speak up for others

If you see any of the objectionable behavior above, raise your voice. Whether it's from another photographer or a security guard speak up - because all should also know better.

When you see another photographer hassling a fellow photographer, speak up. If you notice security unfairly targeting women in the stage pit, don't hesitate to voice your objections.

Never condone disrespect or abuse when it's in your sight!
Take a stand for those who might struggle to raise their voices or perhaps too fragile to do so. This action becomes particularly significant if you're familiar with the person responsible.

Again, respect!

It's worth emphasizing - respect is the golden rule in the stage pit. Every action within that pit should be grounded in respect. Respect for your fellow photographers, respect for the artists gracing the stage, respect for the fans, and respect for all the individuals laboring to make the event happen. There are no exemptions to this principle!

Conclusion

If you're a music photographer, you're likely aware that many aspects of etiquette ultimately boil down to one core principle: RESPECT!
These aren't just practices exclusive to music photographers; they extend far beyond the confines of the stage pit.

The world of music photography is a community that we all collectively shape. In this community, ignorance and prejudice have no place. Concert photography etiquette is the linchpin that enables us to do out jobs effectively and with fun.

I implore all music photographers not only to envision the kind of community they wish to be part of but also to actively confront any wrongdoing they encounter. It could be as "minor" as someone belittling another photographer for their gear, questioning their credentials or because they are a woman. However, music photography community can only get stronger, when we establish an inclusive space, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.


Do you have any recommendations or personal guidelines that you find helpful?
Please feel free to comment and share your thoughts on “the great stage pit etiquette guide for music photographers”.

More knowledge

If you haven't had a chance to read it yet, I encourage you to explore my article titled "101 stage pit etiquette for music photographers". It offers a wealth of additional tips and guidance on navigating the practical behavior in stage pits, especially when you are working in a big crowd of photographers.

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BIG security risk - Photo passes on social media

Social media has an undeniable impact on our world and of course that includes the music industry, including the niche of concert photographies. As photographers in this field, we deal with visual media that ranges from showcasing our work to providing insights into our lives.

For emerging music photographers and individuals involved in live events may be excited to receive credentials. Whether it's a coveted photo pass, a tour laminate, or a festival credential, the inclination to share images of these achievements on social media is entirely natural. However, here's why you shouldn't.

Security measure

Passes serve as a vital security measure, designed to guarantee that only authorized individuals gain access to restricted areas. These include not only sensitive locations such as backstage areas, dressing rooms, rest areas, technical areas, parking for nightliners and trucks or the catering, but the events as a whole as well.

The passes are primarily important for the organizers of the event and the security. Because they are a fundamental part of ensuring the safety of the event staff and visitors.

Forged passes

The critical reason for refraining from posting photos of photo passes, tour laminates, and other event credentials is the ongoing issue of people attempting to counterfeit these items in order to gain unauthorized access to events.

A noteworthy incident from 2021 involved a TikToker who garnered attention for fabricating a pass for a Kanye Donda event. On camera, he boasted about securing a better view of the show than even Kanye's own family. This individual had discovered a social media post displaying the passes. He built a rough facsimile and made his way through the security easily.

There are special forums on Reddit communities dedicated only to the art of pass forgery and admission tickets. Additionally, there is a group of wannabe influencers who engage in pass counterfeiting as a means to attend concerts and other events -only to get attention in the social media.

More complications

Nearly every photographer has encountered situations where they received one set of instructions from an authority figure of the event organizer only for security to have conflicting interpretations. Then, despite previously clearly communicated and established rules, misunderstandings can arise. Access restrictions, limited time quotas and more are then the result.

Counterfeiting passes adds an additional layer of complexity and challenge for everyone involved. Whenever there is a perceived security risk, security measures are intensified, leading to increased scrutiny of all individuals. Publicly sharing images of photo passes on social media compounds this problem by amplifying the need for heightened security measures.

Security

Credentials play a vital role in facilitating access to secure areas, and it's imperative that only authorized individuals occupy these spaces. I'd rather not get into the most extreme possible consequences of publishing credentials on the Internet.

I implore you, let's prioritize the safety. Let's ensure the well-being of our peers, the fans, and the artists.

Therefore, please refrain from sharing photos of your event credentials online. This includes not just your photo passes but also your tour laminates, festival badges and also your ID.

Timing

When is it appropriate to share photos of passes? The safest timing would be once the tour has concluded. Credentials are routinely changed from one tour year to the next, precisely to enhance safety. After one tour concludes, the subsequent tour featuring the same artist will introduce entirely new sets of credentials with distinct appearances.

If you still decide to post a pass online, I strongly advise waiting until the tour or festival has wrapped up.

How to

If you wish to share images from your work while using a photo pass, it's advisable not to show it. Ideally, remove it and stow it in your pocket or somewhere discreet. Always make sure that the pass isn't easily recognizable.

For BTS photos, you can get creative by adding GIFs, stickers, or emojis over the photo pass to mask it. Basically, any method of hiding the pass is better than showing.

Conclusion

• Passes serve as a security measure

• There are individuals actively attempting to counterfeit passes

• Counterfeit passes pose a substantial security risk

• Fake passes and unauthorized entry attempts create difficulties for everyone

• Don't show your pass around swankily, when you're out in public

• If you do decide to post passes, then never during an ongoing tour or event

• Conceal passes within photos or cover them before posting

If you are new to music photography, welcome. Please share your photos - just not your photo passes!

Do you have any recommendations or personal guidelines that you find helpful?
Please feel free to comment and share your thoughts on “BIG security risk - Photo passes on social media”.

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Stage pit etiquette and tips for concert photographers

The stage pit, as any music photographer knows, can often be a very busy, narrow and crowded space. Whether you're squeezed into a tight stage pit in a club or amidst a sea of fellow photographers in a sprawling festival pit, the competition for limited shooting space and optimal angles can be fierce.

In such a setting, a dash of courtesy can work wonders and possessing a firm grasp of the proper etiquette can significantly enhance the experience of capturing concert moments as a music photographer.

This guidance is relevant to music photographers of all levels, serving as a valuable refresher for veteran professionals and an essential guide for those new to the world of music photography. By embracing these etiquette principles, you can move and perform in the stage pit with the professionalism of an experienced pro.

101 stage pit etiquette for music photographers

• Respect
  The number one rule!
  
  Every action you take in the pit should emanate from a core foundation of respect. It's respect for your fellow photographers, respect for the artists gracing the stage, respect for the passionate fans, and above all, respect for every individual diligently contributing to the success of the event. In this realm, there are no allowances for exceptions!
  
  All fellow photographers with a photo pass possesses the same rights to access the pit and capture their shots, without exception. We share a common goal – to capture extraordinary images. By entering the stage pit with respect at the forefront of your mindset, we can collectively enhance our chances of creating remarkable photographs without any unnecessary drama or conflict.

• Outfit
  This tip serves as both a courtesy to the artists and a consideration for the fans: Opt for black outfits!
  As a photographer, you hold a unique and privileged position at the forefront of the stage. You're often very close to the artists and quite literally stand between the performers and their devoted fans. The choice to wear black it a deliberate step toward minimizing the presence and distractions. Embracing black attire is an integral facet of maintaining a professional appearance as a music photographer.

• Pit access
  My advice is to go early to the show rather than be late and fight your way through the crowds when the concert venue/festival area is fully packed. Sometimes the photographers are escorted via a side entrance or the backstage area in front of the stage, directly into the pit. There will be a meeting point somewhere, which will usually be announced to you by the people who are also responsible for your accreditation or you will find out from the staff at the entrance. Unfortunately, you don't get into this comfortable position very often as a usual music photographer. Often there is only one solution - to torture yourself through the crowd. This is not always a pleasure, but most of the time there is no other way to get to the front of the stage and into the pit.
  
  When moving through crowds move slowly and plan you path. Avoid moving through areas where there’s much dancing, hopping, head banging going on. Let people know you are there by gently touching them on their shoulder. Be friendly and apologize if you step onto someone’s feet. Never push people aside but wait for gaps to slip through. Carry your camera gear above your head or visibly in front of you. Beware of burning cigarettes, beer cups, blood or vomit.
  
  On the way to the stage or exit, many venues can be quite dark. A proven solution for this scenario is a Mini-Maglite. With this small flashlight you can literally “light the way”. Please avoid to dazzling anyone. The Maglite should be used primarily as a visual aid.

• Gear
  Exercise vigilance when it comes to your camera equipment and gear while in the bustling stage pit. Understand that it's an environment where equipment can endure some rough handling. Little accident can occur. If you inadvertently bump into someone and their gear, extend a quick apology and continue shooting.
  To reduce the likelihood of such incidents, consider keeping your camera straps short, and if you're working with two camera bodies, ensure your second body and lens are snugly secured closer to your torso. Similarly, when navigating through the stage pit, carry your cameras close to your body to minimize the chances of accidental collisions.

• 3SNF
  Flash photography is typically prohibited at most concerts. The standard rule in most venues is “First three songs, no flash!” (3SNF). So an off camera flash has absolutely no place in the pits.
  
  Even if you have it mounted the flash but don't intend to use it, it's probable that you get hassled by security. Besides, having a flash in the stage pit adds an unnecessary obstruction for fellow photographers, hindering their ability to capture shots effectively.
  For ensuring a smoother and unobstructed shooting experience for all, please stow away your off-camera flash, while your are in the stage pit.

• Backpack
  Here's a significant consideration. In a densely packed stage pit, avoid wearing a photo backpack at all costs. Trust me - everyone in that pit will thank you for it! But if you do, I can guarantee that everyone else in the pit will hate you. Stage pits are often already cramped, and having a backpack on significantly hinders movement for everyone, including yourself. It's advisable to stow your backpack at the sides or under the scaffolding of the stage. As a general rule, avoid putting your backpack in any place where it may of being in someone's way.
  
  If you require quick access to lenses while shooting, opt for a belt with lens pouches or, at the very least, a messenger-style bag that can be worn on your side or front. This way, you can minimize your footprint in the stage pit while ensuring you have the gear you need at your fingertips.

• Oneself noticeable
  A small gesture of courtesy can have a significant impact. When you need to move past another photographer in the pit, a simple tap on the shoulder is all it takes. This allows them a moment to acknowledge your presence and make way for you, rather than you simply pushing through. This thoughtful approach can transform the stage pit into a more civil and cooperative space, and your fellow photographers will undoubtedly appreciate your consideration for both your own space and theirs.

• Work, not dance
  This guideline is quite straightforward. When you're donning a photo pass, there's an inherent understanding that your primary focus is your work while in the stage pit. However, should the music inspire you to dance or you simply wish to immerse yourself in a song by your favorite artist, it's courteous to relocate and find a spot along the side. This way, you can enjoy the moment without disrupting your fellow photographers.

• Move like a Ninja
  When you moving through a crowded stage pit, exercise a high degree of awareness. While it's essential to capture the stage action, it's equally vital to respect your fellow photographers. Whenever possible, opt to move behind them rather than in front, ensuring you don't obstruct their shots. If you must cross in front of someone, make a conscious effort to crouch down, minimizing any interference with their shots. This considerate approach helps maintain a harmonious and professional atmosphere within the pit.

• Overhead shots
  Stages can be quite elevated, especially at festivals. Right! So if you find yourself in the situation where you must shoot with your camera raised high over your head and do a "Hail Mary", I really kindly consider you doing it from the rear of the stage pit. If not, it will just create another challenge for everyone behind you.

• Film crews
  Like it or not, cameras from film crews take up a lot of space in the pit and on the stage. Apart from that, they are most likely right on the spot where you want to stand. They are often in your picture and all the cables can drive you crazy.
  Film crews can either come from a TV station or film at the request of the band. For example, for a live DVD/Blue-ray, a video clip, a streaming service or to show what happens on stage live big screens).
  
  As filmed footage always has a more direct and bigger impact for the artists and record companies than photos, the TV and film crews are more important than you. So don't get in their way, and stay out of their shot. Look out for all the cables on the floor and the tracks for camera dolly systems. You definitely wouldn't be the first to fall over them.

• Audience
  Always remember that people in the audience have paid a lot of money for their tickets. A photographer standing right in front of them or walking by all the time is not what they want. Be considerate to the crowd standing behind you and try to disturb them as little as possible. Have a little chat with them before the concert starts, and tell them you will be out of their way after the first three songs. If the hall is seated, you should crouch down and try to walk around as little as possible. The fans are also often interested in when and where the pictures can be seen. This saves you a lot of moaning, shouting or worse.

• Security
  One of the most pivotal facets of stage pit etiquette is demonstrating unwavering respect for security and venue/event staff. While security personnel are primarily focused on the artist's and fans' safety, they also have your best interests in mind. It's genuinely advantageous for everyone involved to exhibit the utmost respect towards security and all event personnel.
  
  When entering a new venue, taking a moment to introduce yourself to the security team can go a long way. For those who frequent a particular venue, fostering a rapport with security is even more beneficial. They can be your allies. Establishing a positive relationship with security is an asset you'll appreciate time and time again.
  
  While it may seem obvious, it's worth reiterating that security directives are to be strictly followed. They have the authority to remove you from the stage pit if safety concerns arise or if there's a sudden change in artist policy that hasn't been communicated previously.
  
  In the rare instance where security might make an mistake, such as miscounting songs, it's advisable to address the issue with the head of security in a polite and respectful manner. Anything less than that could result in you're going to get bounced.

• STAGE pit!
  The stage pit. Often also called photo pit - which is completely wrong!
  
  First of all, it is important to note that the stage pit has a safety function first and foremost. It should separate the band from the audience and leave the necessary space for the securities to pull people out of the crowd.
  
  The fact that you are allowed to enter the stage pit as a music photographer is a concession of the organizer and the securities, who are first and foremost responsible for the safety of the concert visitors and also for yours. Anyone who seriously believes that the stage pit is there especially for the photographers and that they have a legitimate right to use the pit, is badly wrong.

Conclusion

If I were to encapsulate the essence of "stage pit etiquette" in one word, it's unequivocally "RESPECT"!

As I wrap up, I'd like to leave you with this parting reflection - while much of this guidance may appear to be common sense, we can all benefit from a gentle reminder.

If you observe someone's actions negatively affecting everyone in the pit, consider engaging in a constructive conversation about how their behavior impacts everyone, instead of just grumble about it. We all have the opportunity to do better. After all, we're all in this together.

Do you have any recommendations or personal guidelines that you find helpful?
Please feel free to comment and share your thoughts on “stage pit etiquette and tips for concert photographers”.

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If you like my work or the free stuff and want to say thank you, please use this opportunity now and

THANK YOU, very much! 🙏🏻

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Donots at Rosenhof, JAK 2014

The Donots' JAK (Jahresabschlußkonzert = End-Of-Year Concert) at the Rosenhof in Osnabrück has become a very long and beautiful tradition. An amazing atmosphere and absolute exhaustion of the protagonists on stage, as well as of the fans, was once again the trademark of this special gig.

Although the band from Ibbenbüren not only celebrated their 20th anniversary this year, but also completed one of the most successful tours and recorded the new album (Karacho), the guys around Ingo Donot really put the pedal to the metal. The Donots performed a great concert and a very special evening filled with many memorable moments.

With "Karacho" (Vertigo Berlin (Universal Music)), the Donots will release an album in their native language for the first time in their career on 20. February 2015 and then go on tour a few days later. The tour starts on 03.03.2015 in Magdeburg (Alte Feuerwache) and ends on 27.03.2015 at the Reeperbahn (Große Freiheit 36) in Hamburg.

Special guests on this evening were Adam Angst, the new band around Felix Schönfuss. Many people will know the frontman from Frau Potz and Escapado. The self-titled album by Adam Angst (Grand Hotel van Cleef) will also be released on 20 February.

If you want to be at JAK 2015, you should get your tickets as soon as possible. Because they are always gone faster than you can imagine.