What would you do?

Well,
I have a small portfolio, and just got my new Canon 30D not to long ago. I am still getting used to it and have a lot to learn, especially when shooting in low light for concerts.

Now, I want to apply for photo credentials for a larger concert (just the opening act). I know small chance of getting them, and I know someone is going to tell me that. But let's say I WAS accepted. Should I take the chance of getting to the venue and not geting my camera to work properly. And possibly everything going fine and getting some great shots.

I know I need to learn from experience, but should I make my mistakes at smaller venues, or should I take a shot at a great opportunity and go for it?

*My gear consists solely of my 30D and the kit lense.

I can't really answer that question for you, but I would say that you should look into getting the 50 mm 1.8 lens (about $80 or so) if you decide to go for it. You'll need something like that for the lower light venues anyway.

Alright, I will look into that. Thanks, and where may I be able to get this?

Any other oppinions?

Why not try it.
A bigger venue is different: Less freedom to work in, more light to work with (Note I don't use the word "better" )

Allways good to know how that works...

here's what i would do:

shoot RAW
shoot aperture priority, wide open
chimp and adjust EC as needed

I'd say go for it. Unless you're shooting specifically for someone, i.e the band/a magazine, then who cares if you make mistakes. Hey afterall, we all learn from our mistakes and often getting thrown in at the deep end can be a great way to learn. Be sure to show us some photos.

x

Deffinately. I was betting on getting in by giving the photos to the artists management for use on their website, etc. And I know many people feel your should charge for that, But I think I should do it for free and shoot some decent people, then when I have a good enough portfolio, then start charging.

*Update for anyone who possibly cares, lol*

I am pretty sure I got accepted for credentials. I got a response form the bands management that they are forwarding the request to the club.

The band is Skillet. http://www.skillet.com

They are a Christian band, but they are pretty popular. They are opening for bands such as Three Days Grace and a few others on their tour right now. So keep your fingers crossed that I get some good photos for the band and hopefully a chance to work with them again in the future.

This is the suggested lense, correct?

http://www.amazon.com …ics&qid=1187493​893&sr=8-1

It is indeed!

x

Brandon, if ever there was someone with contacts who could pull strings at this level it would be you. Go to your established contacts and simply ask them for assistance if you have trouble ... which I figure pretty unlikely. You've already demonstrated your abilities.

Brandon,

I also think you should go for it. I find that lots of bands, even the better-known bands, still don't have awesome pictures, so why can't you be the one to provide them??

A friend is shooting the same lineup as you - Skillet, TDG, etc. but in Oklahoma. She's never shot an indoor, at-night concert before, ever.

That link you provided, from amazon, is the best price for that lens - I just did some research on it for another photog. If you've got a bit more in your budget, also look into getting either the 85/1.8 or 100/2 - coupled with your new 50/1.8, you'd have two great lenses for concerts.

There was a thread (on here? I forget where....) about getting credentials for the opening band(s) then sticking around to shoot the headliner. The consensus was to NOT do that - but I've done it and haven't ever gotten in trouble for it. Just smile at everyone and be polite, and maybe you'll get to shoot TDG or whomever. Cheers!

Thanks for the input everyone, so positive :] I am looking forward to it, and I will also look into getting those other lenses as well. Thanks again, and I can't wait to show you what I capture

-Brandon

Well, I purchsed the lense and got it in the mail today. Its so tiny, haha. But, I have not used this camera before for a club venue, and the lighting is scarce. If someone can give me tips as to...

-What mode to shoot in
-The settings

Specifics would be appreciated. I will try and read my way through the book some as well. Cross your fingers that I get some good shots!