1. What did you think about concert photography BEFORE enrolling in Shooting The Rockstars?

I've already had a good portfolio before enrolling in Shooting the Rockstars. It started with shooting unsigned but talented bands spotted on the old myspace pages then hunting them down in crowded, dark pubs. It was fun. I like shooting in poorly lit places. The only big issue was that I felt stuck in my progress. I could not go any further, had no idea how to get closer to big bands or big venues. That was a challenge and not so long ago I started doing serious research. The 'Shooting the Rockstars' academy appeared first in the search engine.

2. What did you think about concert photography AFTER going through the training?

It has definitely advanced my knowledge of concert photography. Learning about the different scenarios I need to deal with when working with the bands, the ways the music industry works, or just simply listening to the stories from Matthias gave me another perspective to this profession. It definitely gave a clear insight into many specific things for example what to do when getting an AAA pass, or how to behave while touring with a band, etc. Gaining all this knowledge and experience could have taken me longer otherwise.

3. What big problem were you facing BEFORE Shooting The Rockstars? What from Shooting The Rockstars helped you solved that problem?

Personally I would not know which way to get into the photo pit, and then how to get my photos published in a newspaper or magazine, or how to put myself out there and to get recognized. I wasn't sure whether I already have those 'special abilities' to achieve the my goals. While I was researching this topic online, it still felt unclear and I did not feel prepared going through it. Matthias laid down a plan which I could use to make the first steps. He did not state it was easy, only suggested it was pretty doable. Looking back now I just simply lacked confidence.

4. What specific results have you achieved as the result of this training?

All together I feel much more confident. Lectures about self-management, do's and don'ts of social interaction with the bands, ways of selling my photos, and other useful marketing tips specific to concert photography all came just at the right time. I became a partaker for the online magazine Rock At Night and I also got published in the first issue of Matthias's online magazine '#htbarp' along with other fifty photographers of our community. That was a great way to start!

5. What would you tell another “new student” of Shooting The Rockstars? What words of advice would you have now that you’ve gone through the program?

I would say the same I tell myself every time, when I grab my camera. Never forget why you started and never give up (which is actually impossible if you love this profession). The course is specifically designed for concert photographers. The lessons are fully packed with cool short stories Matthias experienced along the years. But you get more than that. It is a community with like-minded photographers who are there for you when you need a backslap to keep your momentum. Like with everything else, the more you put in the more you get out of it. Go out and show your best. Hopefully see you in the photo pit!

Andras Paul

www.andraspaul.com