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If you love music and photography, you’ve probably wondered how to get a concert photo pass. After all, it’s your gateway to capturing live shows up close. While it might seem like something reserved for pros, getting a pass is possible – even if you’re just starting out.

This guide explains how to get a concert photo pass step by step. Whether you want to shoot local gigs or huge stadiums, it all starts the same way: with persistence, preparation, and professionalism.

[Related Reading: The Ultimate Guide to Concert Photography: Gear, Settings, Techniques & More]

Why You Need a Photo Pass

A photo pass gives you permission to bring a camera into the venue. Without it, most venues won’t let you shoot with anything other than your phone (sometimes not even that). But keep in mind that the passes also usually come with rules. These most often include shooting only during the first three songs and from a specific area. But they give you legit access, put you closer to the band without the crowd obstructing the view, and they’re one step closer to your building your portfolio being taken seriously.

Before Getting the Pass

Start Local: Small Gigs Are Gold

The best way to start is to shoot smaller shows in your area. Local bars, clubs, and community events often have relaxed rules. You may not need a pass at all. These gigs are perfect for practicing in low light and building confidence.

Your photos don’t have to be perfect. Focus on emotion, movement, and moments. These shows are a great place to learn and build your portfolio.

Build a Portfolio Before You Ask for a Pass

Before you can request a pass, you need to show that you can handle the job. If you’ve attended those smaller gigs, collect your best photos from those local shows to create a small, clean portfolio. Aim for 10–15 strong images. Include close-ups, wide shots, and crowd moments.

Host your work online for this purpose. It can be your personal website or social media page, either works. But other than showcasing your photos, keep your contact info visible and write a short bio explaining who you are and why you shoot concerts.

[Related Reading: Camera Settings and Tips for Concert Photography Beginners]

Getting the Concert Photo Pass

Reaching Out to Music Blogs and Publications

One of the best ways to get a concert photo pass is through a blog or online magazine. Personally, this is how I’ve done it so far. And I’m not gonna lie: having friends work for rock music blogs has helped too, as I’ve had their recommendations for the editors. Still, I believe I’ve delivered decent work, and I’ve worked as both a photographer and a journalist.

But you don’t have to have friends in music magazines or blogs to succeed. You can start small and rely on your skills. Local blogs and zines often welcome new contributors, and I suggest reaching out to them.

What I also suggest is finding a media outlet that matches your taste in music. Be brief and polite. Share your portfolio and mention a show you’d like to shoot. If they say yes, they’ll most likely request the pass on your behalf so you don’t have to do anything. Note that you might not get paid for these smaller gigs. But in my opinion, this is one of those cases where it’s worth working for exposure (ah, that dreaded phrase). You’ll gain experience, credibility, and get to listen to and photograph the bands you like.

When you reach out, include:

• Your name and brief introduction
• Link to your work
• Details of the show (artist, venue, date) you want to photograph

Pitch yourself, and make it easy for them to say yes.

Contact the Band or Publicist Directly

If a blog can’t help, try contacting the band or their publicist directly. This works best for small or mid-sized acts. Look for contact info on the band’s website or social media; you’ll find them there 99% of the time.

Keep your message short, just like you would for the blog pitch. Introduce yourself briefly, link to your photos, and explain that you’d love to photograph their upcoming show. Offer to share images afterward. Be professional and respectful.

Here’s a pro tip: try contacting the opening act. They’re often more approachable and excited to work with photographers. This is also one of my go-to moves as I’m not an established concert photographer. At least not yet.

Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

Publicists need time to approve requests. Reach out at least 1–2 weeks before the show. Include everything they need to process the request as quickly as possible.

If you don’t hear back, it’s okay to follow up politely. A simple reminder shows that you’re serious, but not pushy.

What to Expect at the Venue

Once approved, your name will be on the list at the venue. When you arrive there, there will normally be a dedicated place where you can check in with the staff. They’ll find your name on the list, brief you on the rules, and give you a wristband or pass. As I mentioned, most of the time, you’ll shoot the first three songs. Also, there is normally no flash allowed, so keep that in mind.

Don’t panic that you get to shoot only the first three songs. Instead, stay focused and use that short window wisely. When I was photographing the iconic Serbian band Smak, I spent the entire first song crying tears of joy (and shooting through the blur of my teary eyes). Still, I got some photos I was really happy with.

After the first three songs, you might still be allowed to shoot from the crowd. But this isn’t always the case and depends on the venue or band rules.

Act Professionally

No matter the size of the show, act professionally and follow the etiquette. Be kind to the crowd, security, and fellow photographers. Don’t block views or hog space in the pit. Respect the rules and other people.

After the show, send your best photos to the band or blog you worked with. It builds trust and makes them want to work with you again. Personally, this brought me so many wholesome exchanges with musicians that keep reminding me why I love live music and photographing concerts.

You’ve Got This!

Learning how to get a concert photo pass takes a bit of effort and patience. But it’s absolutely doable, even if you’re new. Start small. Build your portfolio. Reach out to local blogs or artists. Keep it professional. Stay consistent.

Every show you shoot teaches you something new, even if you sometimes end up with photos you aren’t completely pleased with. But keep going! Before long, you’ll have access to bigger gigs and build stronger connections. Keep practicing, keep improving, and all the passes will come.

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