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Photography · MS elective · 3 credit hours · 16 sessions

Music Photography

Capture the beat, the sweat, and the energy. This course immerses students in the fast-paced world of music photography, from the “First Three Songs” rule in the photo pit to backstage documentary work. Students will master low-light shooting techniques, concert etiquette, and the art of band portraiture for album covers and press kits.

§ 01 By the end you can
  1. Master low-light photography: High ISO, fast prime lenses, and spot metering
  2. Understand "Pit Etiquette": The 3-song rule, no flash, and respecting the audience
  3. Capture "The Vibe": Freezing dynamic movement and stage lighting
  4. Execute creative band portraits (Promo shots) for press and social media
  5. Edit for mood: Managing challenging LED stage lighting colors
§ 02 Sixteen sessions

The whole semester.

  1. 01The Music Industry: Labels, PR, & Media
  2. 02Gear for the Pit: Fast Glass & Earplugs
  3. 03Low Light Technicals: Freezing Action
  4. 04Pit Etiquette & Rules of Engagement
  5. 05Composition: Framing the Frontman vs. The Band
  6. 06The Drummer Problem: Capturing the backline
  7. 07Shooting Small Venues vs. Stadiums
  8. 08 · MidtermMidterm Examination
  9. 09The Portrait Session: Band Promos
  10. 10Location Scouting for Bands
  11. 11Album Art & Creative Direction
  12. 12Documentary: Backstage & Touring Life
  13. 13Editing Concert Photos: Taming LEDs
  14. 14Black & White Music Photography
  15. 15Building a Music Portfolio
  16. 16Final Project: The Live Show & Promo Package

Midterm around session 8. Final project briefed at session 8 or 9 and developed in stages until the juries.

§ 03 Final project

Final Project: The Live Show & Promo Package

How it’s judged

Recommended reading
  1. All Access: Your Backstage Pass to Concert Photography by Alan Hess
  2. Music Photography by H.D. Retro
  3. Capture the Magic: Train Your Eye by Jack Kenny
  4. Everybody Loves Our Town: An Oral History of Grunge (Contextual culture)
  5. Rolling Stone: The Photographs (Visual Reference)
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