Music Photography Course
by Mariagrazia Giove
Organizer: MUSICA NOMADE
Intructor: MARIAGRAZIA GIOVE
Level: ADVANCED
COURSE OBJECTIVES
This course is designed for those who wish to learn how to tell the story of live music through images, developing their technical skills and a visual sensitivity capable of conveying the intensity of a live performance. The goal is to provide the necessary knowledge for concert photographers, artists, and event professionals with awareness, attention to light and composition, without neglecting the practical and behavioral aspects related to the music industry.
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the dynamics of live music photography.
- Make the best use of their equipment in difficult lighting conditions.
- Develop their own personal style and a narrative approach to photographing musical events.
- Move professionally in live event settings, respecting the rules and the needs of artists and organizers.
WHAT THE COURSE OFFERS
- Theoretical lessons on the history of music photography, from past icons to contemporary styles.
- Technical insights on equipment, shooting settings, lighting management, and post-production.
- Practical field sessions, with the opportunity to photograph concerts at the legendary Blue Note in Milan.
- A focus on ethics and behavior in the music industry: how to work safely, respecting both the audience and the artists.
- Feedback and review of shots to improve technique and photographic vision.
WHO IT’S FOR
This course is suitable for:
- Amateur and professional photographers who want to specialize in music photography.
- Musicians and music enthusiasts who wish to visually narrate the world of concerts.
- Journalists and music industry professionals who want to integrate photography into their skillset.
- Those who want to navigate live event settings professionally, respecting the rules and the needs of artists and organizers.
- Advanced photography experience is not required, but basic knowledge of camera equipment is recommended.
TEACHING METHODOLOGY
The course follows a practical and immersive approach, alternating theory with direct field application. Students will have the opportunity to practice during real concerts, putting into practice the concepts learned with the guidance of an expert instructor.
The lessons will include:
- Analysis of iconic images and portfolios of music photographers.
- Practical exercises on shooting techniques and managing light in difficult conditions.
- Exclusive access to music events to shoot live.
- Review and discussion of taken shots, with feedback for improvement.
REQUIREMENTS
- DSLR or mirrorless camera with bright lenses (lenses with an aperture of f/2.8 or lower are recommended).
- Basic knowledge of camera operation (ISO, shutter speed, aperture).
- Passion for music and willingness to challenge oneself in a live context.
- Observation skills and respect for the music environment.
COURSE TYPES
REGISTRATION
To enroll in this course, you must complete the form on the dedicated page and pay a deposit of €100. The balance must be paid strictly before or on the first day of the course.
If the course or workshop is not listed in the calendar, you can fill out an interest form. For workshops held at festivals in cities other than Milan, please specify the name of the City and Festival. If multiple requests are received for the same festival, we will reach out to the festival to propose the course.
DETAILED PROGRAM
- Introduction to Music Photography
– History of music photography: An analysis of music photography in different contexts, from the stage to backstage, portraits, and album covers. How music photography has influenced fashion and styles over time.
– The role of the music photographer today: Understanding the context and the importance of photographing live performances. - Understanding the Musical Context
– Musical genres and performance styles: Understanding how the music genre and concert location influence both the shots and photographic composition.
– Lights and stage design: Analyzing how stage lighting and scenography impact photography.
– Crowd management: Techniques for navigating through the audience and capturing unique shots.
– Documenting the festival atmosphere: Capturing the diversity and energy of a music festival. - Ethics and Respect
– Respect for artists and the audience: Ethical guidelines for photographing live performances.
– Copyright and image use: Information on copyright management and the ethical use of images. - Composition and Visual Language
– Principles of composition: Basic rules for creating harmonious, balanced, and captivating images.
– Representing movement: Techniques for capturing the energy and dynamism of concerts. - Equipment and Necessary Tools
– Choosing cameras and lenses: Tips on selecting the right gear based on different needs. - Technical Insights – Light Management
– Exposure in difficult conditions: Tackling the challenges of shooting in environments with variable lighting.
– Natural and artificial light: How to use available light and integrate stage lighting.
– Black and white photography: Learning techniques specific to black and white music photography. - Practical Session – Live Concert (Limited number of students per concert)
– Hands-on practice: An opportunity to apply the knowledge acquired during the course in a real live music setting at one of the most prestigious jazz clubs in Italy, the Blue Note in Milan. - Image Review and Selection
– Review and feedback: Group analysis of images taken during the practical session.
– Creating a visual narrative: Selecting the best images from a technical, compositional, and storytelling perspective. - Post-production and Editing – Basic Concepts
– Image editing: Using editing software to enhance and retouch photographs.