From Barricade to Backstage: My Journey Into Concert Photography

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been obsessed with photography. I used to steal my mom’s cameras just to snap random pictures of anything and everything around me. Being a photographer was always a dream, but it didn’t feel like something I could seriously pursue, at least not until college.

Everything shifted during my senior year of high school, when the pandemic hit. Like a lot of people, I was stuck at home and looking for a new hobby. That’s when I fell in love with the creative world of photography and video. I binged YouTube videos of people making short films, shooting photoshoots, and turning their passions into something real. It was inspiring. Everyone seemed so committed to their craft and I remember thinking, If they can do it, why can’t I?

So I started saving. After working long 12-hour shifts, I finally bought my first real camera: a Nikon D3500. I was in love. That camera became my creative partner and helped me build my first portfolio. I started by taking family portraits, just practicing and collecting experience wherever I could.

Around that same time, COVID guidelines were beginning to ease up, and I started going to concerts again. It was at an Inhaler show, standing right up at the barricade, that I noticed a photographer capturing the band’s set. They weren’t just taking pictures, they were on tour with the band, doing what they loved. That was the moment I realized what I wanted to do.

When I got home, I found the photographer on Instagram. His name is Lewis Evans, and he actually tours with Inhaler regularly. He quickly became one of my biggest inspirations. That concert made me realize I wanted to transition from portraits to music photography. I dove into research; watching tutorials, reading Reddit threads, and learning everything I could about the industry. One common tip kept coming up: photograph local acts for free in exchange for portfolio content.

My first chance came with a local Chicago band called The Tracies. I’ll always be grateful to them. Not only did they give me my first official gig, but they were incredibly kind,and they even insisted on paying me, which meant the world since I was just starting out

Photo Taken by Me (@Yesxpics on instagram) of The Tracies back in 2022

That first show was in a garage, in the middle of winter. It was freezing, my hands were numb, and I was nervous. I didn’t really know what I was doing. At the time, I thought the photos were amazing, but looking back now, I know I’ve grown a lot since then. Still, that night remains one of my favorite memories.

After a few more shows with The Tracies, I had enough solid work to start reaching out to touring bands playing at local venues like Lincoln Hall, Schubas, and more. My first press pass was for a show with Ariel & The Culture featuring Adan Diaz. I was beyond excited. Shooting an official show at a real venue? It felt like a dream.

From there, I kept pushing. I emailed every artist coming through the area, offering to shoot their set for free in exchange for a press pass. Most of the time, it worked. In that first year alone, I shot for bands like Harbour, Boyish, Ambar Lucid, and more.

Photo Taken by Me (@Yesxpics on instagram) of Adan Diaz and Ambar Lucid in 2022

Using those photos, I began applying to online blogs and magazines. That opened even more doors—I went from small local shows to shooting at major festivals like Pitchfork.

Even though I’ve taken a bit of a break from photography recently, my passion for it hasn’t faded. In fact, I’m more motivated than ever to keep going. I hope this next year brings new opportunities to shoot bigger artists, tell more visual stories, and inspire others who want to follow a similar path.

Photos Taken by me (@Yesxpics on Instagram) of Ross Lynch and Bon Iver

Want to Get Started in Concert Photography? Here’s My Advice:

● Start small. Local shows and garage bands are where it begins. Don’t underestimate the value of those early experiences.

● Build a portfolio. Even if it means shooting for free at first, the content you’ll get is worth it.

● Reach out. DM bands, email managers, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.

● Always be kind. The music scene is small, everyone knows EVERYONE, your attitude

and professionalism matter just as much as your talent.

● Keep learning. Watch tutorials, follow other photographers, and grow your skill set as much as you can.

● Be persistent. No matter how much you feel like things aren't working out, keep going. I promise you will figure it out.