By New York Music Photographer Billy Hess
- 1) What does a music photographer do? – A music photographer is a person who takes photographs of musical performances. They capture and catalog the live performances on film or digitally. Music photographers usually work for magazines, newspapers, online publications, or for the musicians themselves. Photographs are used for publicity purposes, album covers, tour programs, or just to capture energy and fell of a particular performance. Music photographers have a passion for music and photography, and many were musicians themselves.
2) What genre is music photography? – Music Photography is a style of photojournalism that consists of the documentation of music and performance.
3) Can I sell photos of musicians? –
Though selling concert photos without permission from the band is illegal, it can be grounds for a lawsuit on base of copyright and privacy infringement.
More on the Legality of Selling Concert Photos
For the most part, it is not illegal to take concert photos. Selling the photos, however, becomes unlawful if you’re selling them for commercial use and do not have the permission of the band or venue owner.
There is a slight bit of leeway for people who are selling shots for art’s sake. If you’re using the photos as part of a work of art, you might have more leniency, but there’s still no guarantee that you’ll be able to get away scot-free.
The penalties for illegal concert photo sales vary from state to state, but typically include:
- Cease and Desist Letters. In most cases, you’ll get a Cease and Desist letter from a lawyer prior to any legal issues.
- Lawsuits. Lawsuits are the most common legal action a person can take.
- Ceasing Business Functions. Many lawyers also go after businesses that sell photos on sites like eBay.
- Your Photo Advisor: Last Updated: Jan 12, 2022 | Published: Feb 24, 2020
4) What is the 3 song rule? – With songs lasting about 5 minutes or less, it was decided that photographers would only be allowed to photograph the first three songs. So that the artist can perform without the hindrance, annoyance, or distraction of concert photographers.
5) How do I become a freelance photographer for a concert? – Many photographers started off by shooting small locals shows, getting photo passes to access large shows, network with different media publications in hope you can a assignment to cover the concert. Make a portfolio of your best work with media links of your past published photos. Make a website or photography blog to show your work, and license your photos.
BILLY HESS PHOTOGRAPHY 