In one of my first posts (here), I explain how I fell into concert photography. It really was chance, luck and good timing. I am forever grateful that did happen as it has opened a whole new creative world for me. Something I do feel I have craved for a very long time. I now have somewhere where I can fully express myself creatively, scratch that itch, and feel a sense of pride in the things I am making.
I’m going to start diving into taking more video on my ventures to create Vlogs and build my YouTube channel. Please head there now and subscribe, I have some things in the works Im excited to share.
Though I don’t use it a lot since prioritising my Substack and YT, I occasionally post to my Instagram.
I am writing today to discuss promotional photography. I have always enjoyed looking at fashion and editorial shots. Even watching videos on lighting setups and portrait styling. At no point did I think I would be entering that world. Not fashion but promotional photography. It aligns with my concert work, as I have been building the courage to approach the bands I shoot and ask for a short moment of their time to get some promo shots. Now, in the smaller punk and hardcore scene, which I mostly operate I am yet to be turned down. Who wouldn’t want some group shots and a few portraits to promote themselves?
This is where it has subconsciously occurred to me that I do enjoy this style of photo making and have somehow pushed my way into taking them. Yes!
I have no experience in this type of work, and by all means, I am winging it. The interaction and now deeper connection with these artists is an added bonus. Am I pretending to know how to pose them and pick good locations for these shots? Of course I am, fake it to you make it? To a degree, but I think a large amount of exposure to all aspects of photography, combined with countless hours of YouTube videos and staring at books and magazines, provides me with some credibility. Most importantly, I have fresh emerging bands that are stoked to have these shoots take place and are very happy with the final results.
I have been doing this for a few months now and have started to build a rapport in my local scene. Bands are approaching me for my time. So I have progress made and word of mouth on my side now. Moving forward, I am a concert AND promo photographer. It’s great fun with the deeper connection the real winner.
The photo above is of a local Sunshine Coast Hardcore band called Two Seventy. They are 16 years old and extremely fucking talented. I am a big fan, among many in my community. They are on the verge of releasing their own material, and I am so very humbled and blessed to be shooting their promo work for the demo. It will include group and portrait shots.
This will also be my first paid work as a photographer, still cannot fucking beleive it. There is no part of me that set out on this creative venture to make a crust. I have a full-time job (that I actually like) that pays the bills. But in saying that, if my talents begin to be recognised and I am of use to others, I will take up the opportunity. It’s cool and makes me proud of the efforts I have put in. All I have ever wanted my whole life is to take photos and make videos. That all seems to be reality now. Will it someday lead to a full-time career, maybe. Wouldn’t say no to that.
One of the best things about Substack has been the community and new friends made. Friends who are very talented and have great ideas and feedback. So, as the title suggests, “Have You Shot Promo Work”?
What are the tips and tricks?
Things to really avoid?
How to secure more work and provide more services?
Please fire away in the comments, because as always, I am all ears and ready to learn.
PS. Huge shoutout to
Full amount up front, don't compromise on your morals
I’ve done a handful of promo shots over the years, but it has mostly been with artists that I had a relationship/friendship with. I’ve never been “excited” about doing it though, which is probably why I never pursued doing it more or practiced it. To each their own. If it’s part of your passion, run with it.