From Fan to Photographer: How to Get Into the Photo Pit

If you've ever stood in a crowd at a concert, looked toward the photo pit, and wondered how those photographers got there, you're not alone. One of the most common questions we receive is about how to get photo passes. Even at shows when I'm standing in the photo pit, I can't tell you how many times I've had an audience member tap me on the shoulder to ask about how to get into concert photography.

The good news is that while it's a heavily saturated industry, it's not impossible to break into if you have the drive and a willingness to learn. Whether you're part of a publication already or just getting started, there are plenty of opportunities available for all experience levels.

Recently, we shared a short guide on social media explaining how photographers can obtain photo passes with and without a publication. The response was overwhelming, to say the least, so we decided to expand that conversation. So, let's get you on the other side of the barricade, shall we?

GETTING YOUR FIRST GIG

The first step, almost always, is to find a local band to work with. You can browse events at small venues near you and then reach out to the artist. You can reach out and let them know you're building a concert photography portfolio and are hoping for a guest list spot (or ticket compensation).

Your first few gigs should be local bands as you build up a portfolio in order to have something to show larger artists when you reach out. There are two bonuses to this method. One is that you gain experience in a variety of lighting conditions. If you can make that dive bar look good, you can do anything. And two is that if you build up a relationship with a local band and they end up getting put on a show opening for a larger artist or going on tour, guess who they call? You.

When you have a solid body of work to show, you'll want to create a portfolio website.

WHY DO I NEED A PORTFOLIO WEBSITE?

Do you absolutely need a website? No. Many photographers begin by sharing their work on social media. But if you want to take this seriously, having a website will be invaluable to you going forward.

A website gives artists, publicists, managers, and venues a professional way to view your work easily. It may not guarantee approval, but it can help you make a stronger first impression.

WAIT, ISN'T A WEBSITE EXPENSIVE?

It doesn't have to be! While you may want to upgrade to a paid website platform at some point, there are a few free options that you can start out with, such as:

• Pixieset
• Adobe Portfolio
• Carrd

For paid options, we recommend Pixieset's paid option ($15/mo) or SquareSpace ($25/mo or 50% off of annual plans if you are eligible for a student discount.) For a super straightforward budget option, you can also check out Carbonmade ($8/mo).

HOW DO I FIND THE CONTACT TO EMAIL?

The artist's publicist should always be your ideal point of contact, especially when reaching out on behalf of a publication. You'll want to look for words like "publicist," "press," "media," or "PR."

If you can't find the publicist, the next step would be management. While you may come across a booking agent's contact information, they typically don't handle media requests, so you're usually better off continuing your search.

You can usually do a Google search to locate a contact pretty quickly. For example:

[artist name] press contact

If this doesn’t work, you can also try:

• Ask in a Facebook group, such as Press Connect
• Search a site that is dedicated to press contacts. Even with a free account, you can often find enough information to Google further with. Examples include Booking Agent Info and Rostr.cc 
• Check the artist’s official website and/or Facebook page
• View the artist’s Instagram profile on a mobile device. Smaller artists often have the "Email" link populated.
• If you haven't had any luck through the previous methods, and it's not a massive artist, you can try sending a DM to the artist or a specific band member. You'll almost always have more luck getting ahold of a band member versus reaching out to the band's main account.

YOU FOUND THE CONTACT — NOW WHAT?

You want to send out the request roughly 1-2 weeks ahead for small/medium-sized artists and 2-4 weeks ahead for larger artists. Here are some suggested templates on what to include, but definitely feel free to make them your own!

YOU GOT APPROVED. NOW WHAT?

• Read the credentials email carefully.
• Arrive early.
• Follow the venue's and tour's photo rules, which are almost always "first 3, no flash, and no video."
• Even if the approval doesn't say no video, do not take video from the photo pit unless you have written permission to do so.
• Always be respectful to security, other photographers, and fans.
• Deliver any promised coverage in a timely manner.

HOW CAN I FIND A PUBLICATION?

Publications aren't for everyone due to the typical requirement of writing a show review as well. This is what publicists expect when you request a show on behalf of an outlet. You're asking to represent the artist as credentialed media, so they expect an article in addition to photos.

Here are some tips to finding an outlet:

• PhotographerTonight Publication Directory
• Ask in a Facebook group, such as Press Connect
• You can also search on Google and/or Instagram using terms like "music publication." If you come across one that catches your eye, look for their Contact page and send them a message. Be sure to include your portfolio in the initial message.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Getting your first photo pass can feel intimidating, but we all started somewhere. Start where you are: build your portfolio, develop your skills, be professional when reaching out, and don't be discouraged by rejection. Not every request will be approved, and that's okay. Resilience and professionalism will take you much further than any single photo pass ever could.

Most importantly, remember why you picked up a camera in the first place. Remember the joy of capturing the perfect moment, the passion and raw energy, and genuine moments of connection with fans.

We'll see you in the pit. 🫡 🤘