Street Photography At Concerts
keep your eye sharp
Before actively pursuing live concert photo opportunities, I would have in a very generalised term, categorised my photography exploits as street photography. That was what I was mostly doing when out and about with a camera. For many years, not even knowing what “street photography” was I would say that’s the style I have done most of my life. Both unintentional and with more intent in recent years. Without question, there is a current surge in street photography and I am all for it. I really do enjoy those once-in-a-lifetime shots the talented guys and gals of the world are getting today in pursuit of the legends that preceded them. But man, does it take up so much time. Time with a camera, I find I have less of than say 4-5 years ago. Work, family and other of lifes commitments understandably replace this potential photo time. That is why when I’m at a show to take photos, I will also let this be an opportunity for me to do some personal work. Try to capture some street-style photos at a live music show.
Gear-wise, I tend to just shoot with whatever I am using to capture the show, but have been dragging along my film point-and-shoot recently for variety. This makes me more intentional when looking for street photos. I am not much of a camera hoarder and prefer to buy, use, and then sell for another. This leads to me trying a lot of cameras until I get to ones I will keep. I frequent op shops (thrift stores for my US audience) weekly and sometimes come out with some big scores. The point-and-shoot I refer to and a camera I will never sell, and potentially re-buy come failure, is a Canon PRIMA Zoom 70F. It’s so small and light but also really fast, which is important. I have used an Olympus MJU a few times in the past and stick with me here… I kinda prefer the Canon. Price for one and I just like the way it sits in my hand. Only a fraction bigger than the MJU, but I have found the images to be super sharp. On writing this, I thought I would check the price of the Canon and shit, prices be going up. I got mine for $20 AUD, beaten up and very much pre-loved.
Conflict in the streets is a real hurdle for most, I struggle with it sometimes but will ultimately fire away to get the photo. Taking photos of strangers is daunting and some days I couldn’t be bothered with that. Now, insert yourself at a music festival or show and you need to kindly tell folks, “Sorry, I can’t take your picture today”. Rolls are completely reversed and punters will literally jump in front of your camera and occasionally into you. This removal of conflict, coupled with the addition of being able to say, “I’m taking photos for the band, venue, etc.” Unlocks a way to be able to satisfy my street photo exploits while also getting the job done by shooting the music.
It’s been a fun exercise approaching live music events with the same intent when I’m out attempting some street photography. Looking for quirks, funny things are generally something that will make the viewer stop and examine. That’s what I think makes a great street photograph. So, I am not even sure if this can be classified as street photography or if it may come under something completely different; nevertheless, it is fun and not something I have seen a lot of.
Here are some of my favourites so far, including above:
Awesome. One of my fav things to do is shoot crowds at festivals, were these shots at one festival or several?
This is great!! Would love to see and shoot more of this— thanks for sharing ✨