Photographing a concert....??????

[ChowChi-Ching]

I am trying to figure out how to, legally, be able to photograph a concert (Dave Matthews to be exact) but no cameras are allowed....

However, I have read online that if you get a press pass, you can. Is that true? If so, how do I do that? Is there any other way for me to get some pics of this concert? We go every year and I am not a person that is willing to sneak in a camera for fear of it getting taken. So I want to do this legally, plus we are usually so far away that you have to use binoculars to see anyway, but if I can get a press pass and actually get some good shots, I would be ecstatic!

So, is there a way to do this legally?

[Frog]

I know nothing but found it an interesting question so did some googling.

I found this one interesting http://markhancock.blogspot.com/2003...nceptions.html

It appears you would have to get one from the band or a media organization that the band wants taking their pics.

Lots of sites about press passes not being a magic ticket to go where you want.
Have you seen photographers working the concert before?

I see the concert is in the amphitheatre in George....only been a couple times but what a beautiful place for a concert. I do remember they were searching bags for booze AND cameras and recorders.

[ChowChi-Ching]

To be honest, I have not really noticed any photographers there before, haven't looked though either. The gorge is the best place for a concert and you can't get much better then Dave(I know personal opinion - and this is mine! )

Okay, so basically trying to contact the band, well that should be easy! HAHA - Well, it can't hurt to try right?

[Jimmy B]

Try going to the local town news paper in your home area and see if they can put you as a Stringer for the credentials, never hurts to try.
Jimmy B

[ChowChi-Ching]

What is that?

[another view]

A stringer is a freelance photographer shooting for a newspaper.

It boils down to this - you either get the royal treatment or you get nothing with a show that big. You'll get a press pass and access to the pit, probably only for a few songs, where you have a chance to get some excellent shots - or you're part of the general audience. Unfortunately, everyone and their brother wants this kind of access to big-name shows so unless you're already established as a concert photographer in your area the chances of getting it are pretty slim. I didn't say "zero", however...