Capturing the Vibe: Photographing Outdoor Concerts with Members Only 80s Rock Band

Hello, fellow photography enthusiasts! Recently, I had the thrilling opportunity to photograph the 80s rock band, Members Only, at Grandscape in The Colony. For those new to the scene or looking to dip their toes into event photography, I’m excited to share my insights from this experience, hoping to illuminate the dynamic world of outdoor concert photography.


Understanding the Venue: Grandscape

Grandscape, a sprawling 400-acre development, offers a vibrant mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment. With attractions like a Tiger Woods-designed mini golf and the only Ferris wheel in North Dallas, it’s a photographer’s playground. I’ve shot other outdoor concerts here, so I’m familiar with the layout. The main stage faces west, flanked by entrances and surrounded by dining options and shops. Knowing the venue’s layout—where you can shoot from and the locations of key elements like stage lights and speakers—is crucial for planning your shots.

 

Jade NickolThe Band: Members Only 80s Rock Band

Having previously photographed Members Only, I was acquainted with their electrifying repertoire, from rock legends like AC/DC and Guns N’ Roses to iconic 80s divas like Cyndi Lauper and Madonna. Understanding the band’s setlist and performance style is vital as it helps anticipate key moments, allowing you to position yourself perfectly for capturing those unforgettable shots.

 

 

Navigating Outdoor Concert Photography Challenges

Shooting an outdoor concert involves myriad variables: time of day, weather, and lighting, just to name a few. One challenge I faced was managing the harsh shadows cast by the setting sun, which coincided with a special moment when the band brought a bride on stage. Such moments demand quick decision-making: to shoot or not, based on the lighting conditions. I chose to capture this unique interaction, adjusting my position to mitigate the impact of the challenging lighting.

 

LED backgrounds, prevalent in concert settings, can also pose a challenge due to potential pixelation or color mismatch. Being mindful of these backgrounds and choosing angles that minimize their distraction is key.

 

Camera Settings for Optimal Shots

Many budding photographers wonder about the best settings for outdoor concerts. Here’s what worked for me:

  • Aperture: F4, to keep the subject in focus while blurring distracting backgrounds.
  • Shutter Speed: Started at 1/800 to freeze motion while it was still bright, then adjusted to 1/500 as it got darker to let in more light.
  • ISO: Auto, ranging from 100 to 6400. Knowing your camera’s capabilities up to a certain ISO can ensure image quality.
  • Focus: Manual focus, setting a specific distance to ensure sharpness for subjects that pass through that point.

The Outcome and Reflections

The settings I chose allowed me to capture the energy and fashion of the 80s, delivering shots I was proud of. Even when some didn’t turn out as expected, each miss provided a learning opportunity, enhancing my skills for future shoots.

Summary: Embrace the Experience

Photographing Members Only at Grandscape was not just about the photos; it was a memorable evening filled with dance, music, and enjoyment. My advice for anyone venturing into outdoor concert photography is to know the venue, understand the band, master your camera settings, and most importantly, enjoy the moment. Maybe next time, I’ll secure a media pass for even closer shots, but until then, I’ll cherish the experiences and look forward to the next concert under the stars.