Pit Etiquette: The Dos And Dont’s Of Concert Photography

Every die-hard fan dreams of getting barricade at their favorite artist's concert. Some line-up hours before the venue's doors are scheduled to open just for a chance to make a mad dash for the shiny silver gate – the closest spot to the stage, besides performing on it. But don't be fooled. This gate that keeps concert-goers contained outlines the farthest edge of any concert photographer's stomping grounds. 

The pit – a spot closer than the closest seat in the house! Sounds mighty luxurious, right? My answer? Potentially. Some music venues don't even have a pit, which is an entire nightmare in itself, but let's save that for another post. Assuming that there is a pit, these spaces are typically very small– like can't even pass in front of another person– small. 

Rules of Pit Etiquette #1

Do: Be aware of your surroundings and stay on your

toes so you can get out of another photographer's way. 

Don't: Anchor down to one spot.

Did I not mention that the pit is crawling with other photographers? Not only are you crammed into a small space, but you will be joined by at least three other photographers. Trust me, you will need to ask another photographer to move to get to your next shot. Show them the same respect and be ready to constantly move around. 

Rules of Pit Etiquette #2

Do: Stay low.

Don't: Stand tall.

Remember when I said that the pit shared a gate with those die-hard fans? When the concert starts, those fans do not want to see your head! Make sure you are staying low at all costs. Get your knees used to a walking squat. Photographers are there to capture the moment, not to block the moment. The moment, clearly, being the artist’s performance.

Rules of Pit Etiquette #3

Do: Photograph the first three songs.

Don't: Photograph more than three songs.

Why, you ask? I honestly couldn't tell you, but I assume it has something to do with not distracting the artist or being in the way of paying fans. Any veteran concert photographer knows that once that third song ends, you better be able to dip from the pit fast. I’ve seen photographers literally run. Staying for more songs could get you in trouble with security or even be banned from photographing that artist or at the venue. Just don't do it! 

I hope these basic dos and dont’s help you take on your first gig shooting at a concert. Please leave comments below with any questions or other insightful tips I missed!