Photography

I used to do this a lot at a medium sized venue. They changed ownership and got a lot tighter on these sort of things. But I usually reached out to bands however I could, social media, email if available, whatever. They'd say yes, I'd reply asking them to make sure I'm on the list at the door. Then no problem. There was 1 time I wasn't on the list, I showed the message from the band giving me the OK to the security guard at the door and he hesitated but let me in.

It's worth a try, but don't expect anything. If you're going to the show anyway, just have a plan for storing your gear if you're denied.

Kinda depends on what size show you're talking about, but the artist definitely has final say over their manager.

I once showed up to a show that the artist had promised me guest list to, but there was some miscommunication, and I wasn't on the list. I hit up their DMs, they contacted security, and I got into the show.

If you have tickets anyway, just show up with your camera. Again this will depend on the venue, but if you aren't a fucking bobblehead you can often talk your way through with a camera as long as you seem kinda normal and promise you won't be a problem.

Show up early during load in and talk directly to the band has worked wonders for me in the past.

I have gotten in based on an Instagram message, as long as you have the text to back it up it should be all good, even if you don't have the OK from the promoter

I've shot shows with nothing more than a band member's message plenty of times. Sometimes it's in the pit, sometimes in smaller venue, and more than once at a festival. Worst case scenario you pack up and go home, but it's never happened to me yet.

I convinced a bouncer to let me into a Matisyahu concert with my DSLR and a 50mm prime lens because "it's not professional it doesn't even have zoom." Shot from the crowd and got some of the best concert photos I've ever taken!

The artist should have their TM put you on the list for a photo pass (presuming the artist is at that level). Ask them to confirm they've done that

Just keep replying day of, I’ve definitely shown up to shows where I wasn’t on the list (thought I was approved) and still got in. They either got the manager to come up or just said fuck it. But ya keep hitting them up and the worst thing that happens is they’ll say no when you show up. But I wouldn’t show anyone an Instagram screenshot as proof, that seems unprofessional & easy to fake.

was told I was on the list by someone reputable showed up and guess what, not on the list. The gal working the ticket window looked around and said here, and handed me a ticket and pass. Lucky, but scary.

It all comes down to the tour manager of the headliner, he/she is the final level of approval. Even if the venue has an issue with you, if you can get a hold of your band contact and they can get to the tour manager…. You will be fine.

Update: Bugged the artist one last time on IG and he said he’d take my name down for a photo pass . Got to the venue, said they don’t have a list, I ask that they go ask the band and finally they let me in. Had an awesome night takin pics and got to meet the artist myself and finally connect. He was so sweet and understanding and I’m so happy it worked out in the end