The shots I try to catch backstage are those shotsyou rarely see on stage - the band and artist at ease:
conversing with each other, warming up, encour-
aging each other. These are often tender moments
and at times can include great images of solitude or
focus. Musicians in prep do whatever is needed for
them to be ready to walk on stage and in front of
strangers and open up to them. Be ready to capture
these moments.
When backstage I'm always clear about letting theperformers know I will not intrude and that I will send
them any shots before sharing them publicly. After all,
I am asking them to let me into their preparation, and
their private world, and needless to say, I will not al-
ways be granted what I want!
This said, most artists I know realise the valueof this side being captured and are usually open
to it, others won’t be. But you never know if you
don’t ask! The compromise of course that comes
from being backstage may mean you need to be
prepared to hand over any shots as a thank you for
being granted access.
However, for most of us, and even me sometimes,
access is not always possible. In these cases, if you are
interested in doing more ‘documentary’ style photos,
I would suggest contacting the artists a day or two af-
ter the show, letting them know you attended and took
some shots during the performance. Send them some,
and include a note that you would love to take more
shots at their next show, perhaps backstage, as well.
From there, a discussion can begin and who knows
who or what you’ll be shooting next!
Oh, and one last thing, if you ever see me out there,
tap me on the shoulder to say hello - just don’t stand in
front of my shot, ok?! ❂You can find or follow Darren on
instagram @dsmiddleton, on
Facebook @darrenmiddletonmusic and
on his website darrenmiddleton.com.ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHERPHOTO TIPS: MUSIC PHOTOGRAPHY