Things You'll Need:
- Camera
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Step 1
Buy a nice camera. If you seriously want to make this your career, you will need to invest in quality equipment. You will need a good camera (preferably digital), tripod and different lenses. You will probably also want some photo software for your computer to edit and crop your digital pictures.
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Step 2
Get really skilled with your camera. Take as many pictures as you can and be creative with the way you take them. Play with lights, angles and effects to develop a very dynamic photo-taking ability.
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Step 3
Research photography in books and online. You will want to become as knowledgeable about the subject as possible (see Resources below).
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Step 4
Volunteer to take pictures for local venues and bands. This way you will get experience taking action shots and will learn how to take great pictures of live performances.
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Step 5
Offer to take free pictures of local bands and artists in a studio setting. This will help you develop your portfolio with many examples of what you are capable of.
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Step 6
Use Internet resources to find positions with online and print publications looking for a photographer. Even if they are not music photography positions, you will establish professional photography credentials (see Resources below).
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Step 7
Consider going to school to get a photography degree. If this is not possible or is out of your budget, focus on getting as much experience taking pictures as you can to substitute for a lack of formal education.
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Step 8
Consider keeping a blog to post your pictures. Make sure you copyright them so you get proper credit for your work. Blogs are a great way to develop an online portfolio.
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Step 9
Become familiar with the music industry. Go to concerts and festivals, read magazines and immerse yourself in the world of music. The more you know about the industry, the better you'll be prepared for your rock music photography career.
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Step 10
Keep your eyes and ears open for available work listed in music publications. Even if it is an unpaid internship, it will help you get your foot in the door and will help you get to know professionals in the industry (see Resources below).
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Step 11
Show people your work and what you are capable of, and it is very possible that you can score an amazing job taking pictures of your favorite stars.
