I scored a photo pass for a concert -- advice?

[RevolutionStartsNow]

I'm seeing Steve Earle at the Masonic in SF later this month. My seats are 2nd row center.

I write reviews for an online music mag, and the editor got me a photo pass for the show. He said I will be able to shoot during the first 3 songs or so, no flash of course.

Any advice from other indoor concert photographers? I shoot with a Nikon D80. Am thinking my 85mm 1.8 or maybe my 24-120 VR lens will be best. The 85mm is my fastest lens.

The lighting could be tricky, and I don't have a lot of experience shooting indoors. Any advice would be welcome.

Thanks!

[ConsAreLiars]

1. PM adsosletter for advice.

S/he (who cares) has done some stunning concert pix. And, of course, Steve Earle is a brilliant troubadour, singing truth to power, and if you come away with nothing more than a memory that ought to suffice. There are others here who work under such harsh conditions and may be able to offer a hint or two.

My own ignorant guess, use fill flash at 2/3 power or so and direct it at your specific subject, if that degree of control is an option.

[RevolutionStartsNow]

3. Thanks, I will. As for Steve Earle...

I have shot him several times, but always outside.

Here's a recent one (Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 2007):


Also here's a bonus shot of Margo Timmins from Cowboy Junkies:

[mth44sc]

2. Never done that

but a good buddy of mine takes concert shots frequently

(you can see 'em here )

His email address on on that page and I'm sure he'd be willing to pass along a few tips if asked.

[RevolutionStartsNow]

4. Thanks, he has some good stuff there.

I am finding that I am a better photographer when photographing something I love. So for me it will be concerts, basketball, and the ocean. And my kids of course. :)

[NashVegas]

5. You Can Go to 3.5 If It's a Well Lit Hall

If you've got a 70-200 that can get you that, go with it and an ISO of 1600 - assuming your axe can go that high without much noise.