How to become a concert photographer - Unwritten rules

You made it to the photography pit. You know that area right in front of the stage where all the concert photographers stand and do their works. And you are standing right there with them.

Especially with bigger concerts or festivals this might feel very scary, overwhelming and slightly like you are getting the imposter syndrome. Or maybe you are very confident there but somehow everyone around you is looking upset and angry at you. Did you do something wrong.

Here are the unwritten rules of concert photography:

You might never have noticed it but there are quite a handful of unwritten rules popping up the moment you get your accreditation and start to move towards the professional side of concert photography. Here is the list of things I have encountered.

• Don't stand in front of others. If you need to, take notice of what they are doing and never stand there too long.

• Don't hold your camera above your head! This is one of the most annoying things photographers do. You are taking your shot and suddenly a camera and hands pop up in your view because the idiot in front of you thinks it is a good idea to hold the camera above his head. If you must, take notice of your surroundings and only stick it up for a shot.

• Don't stand in front of the audience for too long. If you can shoot the whole show, move to the side if you are taking a moment to re-evaluate, change batteries or card. They paid for their ticket so they earned that view.

• Don't wear your backpack! There is nothing more annoying than big photographers with even bigger backpacks trying to move around in a small photo pit. Place it to the side or where the security says you can place it.

• Socializing happens till the concert starts. After that you communicate with looks only. Everybody is working their ass off. Talking happens before and after.

• Don't a dick! No matter how good you are, everybody in that pit has earned their place there. You are no better so don't act like it.

• Wear dark clothes. In most countries it is very normal that it is required to wear dark clothes. Some places people wear bright colored clothes but in general this is frowned upon. You are to blend in and do your work unnoticed.

• No flash! You don't need it and it annoys both your colleagues and the band. If you think you need a flash you need to go back studying the settings of your camera.

• Always listen to the manager and security. They safety of the show and the integrity of the band are their priority. You are not on their radar but if you ignore their instructions it could just be your last shoot for them.

• Don't drink in the pit! It is okay to have a drink before or after the show, but drinking (specifically alcohol) while working in the pit is a big no no. It is very unprofessional and dangerous for all the gear around you.

• Never pass in front of others. Try to walk around the back of other photographer or bend down to avoid interfering with the shot.

There will be many more unwritten rules, this varies per country, show or scene. In general the idea is to be kind, be humble and have fun.