In 2008 I graduated from the New England School of Photography In Boston Massachusetts. Since then, the rise of the “user friendly” digital camera has turned everyone in to some sort of photographer. In my experience I have seen a lot of well deserving bands fall victim to these “fauxtographers.”
As much as it pains me to say it, image is truly a factor as a band. When putting together a press kit one of your main attachments will be promo shots and on a rare occasion, live photos. Here are a few things to consider when searching for a photographer as and unsigned band:
- Research your photographer. Do they have a degree or certificate in their field? Are they willing to show you previous work? Too many kids with their moms Canon Rebel think they are the next Robert Knight. They are somehow brave enough to jump in to photographing without the proper knowledge of their equipment, thus taking a huge toll on the end result.
- ALWAYS ask what kind of equipment the artist is working with. Camera body, lens, lights ect. If they don’t seem to comfortable answering, or have a hard time doing so….RUN!
- NEVER pay for live shots. Unless the photographer’s work is something out of Rolling Stone Magazine, you will find someone who is equal to or better than them, that will do it for free. All we really want is Photo Credit.
- Most photo students are willing to work for free, take advantage of that!
- If you do end up paying for promo shots, see above, and make sure this person is a professional. I can’t tell you how many times I have seen bands throw away hard earned money on a “fauxtographer” only to get terrible results.
Taking all of these things in to consideration is going to help you on your quest of finding the right photographer for your band. Bad photos can ruin a press kit. Don’t let this happen to you!
-Matt
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