first time shooting a gig with a press pass - help!

[tjs]

like the title states, i am soon shooting my first gig which requires me to have a press pass. luckily, the artist was more than happy to let me have one. however, despite shooting gigs in the past, i have always shot in small clubs and bars, meaning i didn't need a pass, and i therefore have no idea what to do to get mine!

i assume that i ask for it at the door, and prove who i am, and then saunter up to the pit at the front and show the pass to get in?

if not, what do i do!? and then also, due to the '3 songs, no flash' rule probably being in place, will there be someone to tell me when i finish and escort me out? i'm a sucker for timekeeping!

 

[desantnik]

Ask them all those questions!!!

We can't answer those, there are lots of ways things can be done and all are wrong except the way they want you to do it.

If in doubt ask, nobody will mind...

 

[Jamesbuk]

It depends on the gig - some gigs Ive been to, we picked the photographer pass up at a media gate on the way in, others we just said we were media and were escorted through to the media area where we picked up our passes.

Best thing to do is email the person who has organized this pass for you and just ask.

For the "3 songs" rule, there is normally a list 'somewhere' which lists who can and cant stay for more than 3 songs. Depends on the size of the gig though.

James

 

[itsdavedotnet]

probably easiest to play it by ear to a certain extent, if there is a set procedure for what's meant to happen re: your pass, then it'll probably become immediately apparent... and vice versa, if the whole thing is a shambles, you'll quickly realise from the blank look on the doorman's face when you mention media

having confidence, obviously not being a punter (dressed exactly like you wouldn't if you're going to a gig - generally all black, and not being drunk), and having a camera bag, tend to work as generic press passes anyway with most members of security Smile/nod at security, and obviously 'be on their side' and it works wonders, if only in terms of them staying out of your way in the pit.

for rules etc, if it's all well organised, there will probably be a pr rep working for the event venue to manage the band, and basically keep them happy - this person is to be your best friend

be nice to them, and ask what the band's cool with you shooting. If you're shooting for a publication, this is the person who will sort out interviews etc with the band too.

Push/ask for flash if you want, a nice backup I guess, though I hate using it for stage stuff, it takes away from the lampie's hard work, and generally makes your shots look pretty atmosphere-less...

oh, and earplugs!

 

[Jamesbuk]

Maybe its just me, but I wouldn't ever just turn up to a gig not knowing where Im getting my pass from..

Take the Download festival for example, we were supposed to receive a press parking pass, otherwise we wouldn't get into the car park, we presumed 'Oh we pick it up on the day' but when we asked the magazine they told us they had sent it out to us in a spare mag. After searching through the bins we managed to find the spare mag and get the pass.

Theres too many jobs-worth security guys to ever rely on them just letting you through because you have a camera.

Pre Planning and Preperation Prevents **** Poor Performance.

James

 

[LKavaney]

Maybe its just me, but I wouldn't ever just turn up to a gig not knowing where Im getting my pass from..

Totally agree and can't stress this strongly enough. Know exactly where the pass will be and who on their end to contact should it not be there when you arrive AND take print out of email confirmations as proof of your entitlement to the pass.

I've seen all too many times that when you arrive the person on the door/gate hasn't a clue where there passes are or who is meant to have them, if you have your confirmation email with you they can't really turn you away and if you've travelled any distance it pays to be prepared for these eventualities.

As for the 3 song no flash rule, I can't stand flash in live music photography to me it ruins the ambience so I won't go into that but if the band is big or too big for their boots (you choose depending on who your seeing ) you will know how long your allowed and if you outstay your welcome you'll soon know too hehe. Generally the bouncers are very friendly and helpful, just ask.

Looking forward to seeing the results!

 

[ditchdigger]

Maybe its just me, but I wouldn't ever just turn up to a gig not knowing where Im getting my pass from..

Take the Download festival for example, we were supposed to receive a press parking pass, otherwise we wouldn't get into the car park, we presumed 'Oh we pick it up on the day' but when we asked the magazine they told us they had sent it out to us in a spare mag. After searching through the bins we managed to find the spare mag and get the pass.

Theres too many jobs-worth security guys to ever rely on them just letting you through because you have a camera.

Pre Planning and Preperation Prevents **** Poor Performance.

James

sound advice take an email confirming and a mobile no it helps

 

[DizMatt]

the bouncers are normally great if you're being nice to them
if you're in a rock gig keep an eye out (if you have ear plugs in, recommended sometimes) you won't hear them
if they need to get past you, they will move you..be aware and it's nothing personal.
3 songs? they'll wave at you and just respond without taking the mick
the head bouncer will know about the flash rule, just ask and learn his/her name.
be ready to get covered in drinks or splashes...of anything.
ring the venue beforehand...I did once and they said it's on the door, it wasn't,,,took some messing about, and met the tour manager etc..got in as he was a lovely chap!