The amazing Ellie from Slashed Seat Affair

Here’s some advice to those starting out in music photography.

My golden rule; be brave, be creative and take risks. This rule applies to all aspects. When I shoot, I am respectful to the band and the audience, but I have no problem being in a fan’s line of sight if I can get the great shoot I am always looking for.

• Network and mingle at local gigs. Unless you have a really famous rock dad you won’t be photographing the Foo’s anytime soon so find local venues where unsigned bands are performing. Find them, talk to them and offer your photos for a very small fee or for free.
• Be prepared, know the environment you are shooting at. Don’t try and wing it during the gigs.
• Having the right equipment is essential. Don’t bother with a point and shoot camera unless you’re shooting in broad day light; even then I would strongly recommend a budget SLR with a fast lens. In the UK,  you can buy a reasonable setup
  • Nikon D40x (which is my backup camea) for under £350 ($700US) if you shop around
  • then get yourself a Nikon 50mm F1.8 for around £70 (£140) which is a very cheap and fast lens
  • and finally, if your budget can stretch to it, buy yourself a decent flash. I have only ever used Nikon’s SB-800 which are top of the range Flash units, although it has been recently superseeded by the SB-900. If the SB-800 is anything to go by, then you can’t go far wrong with the other SB flash units.
• Get cards printed, that is essential. If you’re going to do this seriously then commit to it; the very least you can do is get some business cards printed. I had 250 printed for £15 with VistaPrint.
• Keep in touch with the bands you like and (more importantly) photograph well. Many of them are on Facebook or MySpace so once you have initiated that then the rest is easy.
• Keep asking what the bands are up to, offer your services. Building a strong relationship and reputation is just as important as being a great photographer.