Being a Gig Photographer
Okay, here’s the science bit
Clients who are savvy in how the photography BUSINESS works know how much time is spent preparing, shooting and editing the photos which can take up to 70% of the total amount of time to deliver the photos to a professional grade. It is a notoriously time consuming process but something this is necessary. On top of that there are equipment costs starting with THE top of the range Nikon equipment.
For those that might be interested I carry the following with me, but not necessarily all the time!
- Nikon D3 DSLR
- Nikon D300 DSLR
- 24-70mm F/2.8 Lens
- 70-200mm F/2.8 Lens
- 14-24mm F/2.8 Lens
- 50mm F/1.8 Lens
- 10.5mm F/2.8Fisheye Lens
- 18-50mm F/2.8 Sigma Lens
- NexTo portable backup device
- Macbook Pro Laptop
As well as the Cameras there are editing tools, software, computers and archives; incidentally all my files are TRIPLE backed up so I do have a strong redundancy solution in place in case anything happens.
But most of all, my clients are investing in a creative artform that is not a science but I take all the guess work out of it. My expertise and many years in digital creativity is at the top of the list when people need my skills. Literally anyone can buy an expensive Digital Camera, but I have witnessed first hand they do not appreciate nor understand the business.
The Emotional bit
L-O-V-E. I am sure everybody uses that word when they describe something they are passionate about. I believe saying it is one thing, but living it is completely different. I recently covered an Event and someone I knew asked me “Why do you keep doing this? Surely you have enough photos already? There can only be so many shots you can take!?”, and I asked him “Why do you keep playing the Bass guitar? Why do you keep rehersing, travelling, buy new equipment…why keep doing that?” and with that we completely understood each other, and with a knowing smile on his face he said “…because I love it!!” He looked right at me, shook my hands and walked away understanding what drives me about Photography.
The End bit
So there you have it. If you are interested, then please call me on 0787 429 6806 or email me on terry@gigphotographer.com for more information!
Terry.
hiya terry,im kim im 28,and have been working as a wedding assistant for 2 years now,with a company called vale photo’s.i love my photography,it is my passion and its what drives me.i’d love to get into gig photography but havent a clue where to start and wondered if uyou can give a lil advice.
the equipment i usually use is canon.i have a eos mark 1,10-22mm 1.8,70-200mm 2.8,and my trusty 50mm 1.8. i havent a fisheye tho(v expensive!)
i look forward to hearing from you
kim x
Hi Kim,
I’m also interested in getting in to gig photography.I’ve been going around music venues taking pics of new local bands (mostly free entry) talking to the staff at the venues and the bands.I was told it’s mostly about getting your work and name about.
Another suggestion was to put pics of bands on cds and send them as examples of your work to venues.Offering to take pics for local bands,is a good way to build up a portfolio ,experience and networking .I’ve been emailing local festivals and events offering to take pics for them.
Good luck.
Sophie
Hi Terry,
I have photographed live bands and recently I have photographed a Pink Floyd act at the PITZ in Milton Keynes. I also recently photographed a Michael Jackson Tribute. There are one or two pictures on my website of this event. I am in the process of looking for a low light lens with a mid-long range zoom, do you have any suggestions? I also have a 50mm f1.8 that I use but would like to sell as it does not auto-focus on my cmera which makes it extremely difficult for live bands and events as you can imagine.
Thanks,
Keith
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