The Ultimate Guide to Concert Photography

What is Concert Photography? 

Concert photography is where art meets adrenaline. It’s about more than just snapping pics—it’s about capturing the raw energy, the sweat, and the emotion of live music. Whether you’re shooting in a cozy underground venue or a sprawling festival stage, concert photography is about telling the story of that night, in that place, with those people. It’s a dance between you, your gear, and the performers—a dance that’s unpredictable, exhilarating, and, when done right, utterly unforgettable.

Why Concert Photography Matters 

In a world where everyone has a camera in their pocket, concert photography remains a unique art form. It’s not just about timing; it’s about capturing moments that define a generation. Think of those iconic images of Freddie Mercury at Wembley, Jimi Hendrix setting his guitar on fire, or the gritty shots from CBGB’s heyday. These aren’t just photos; they’re cultural artifacts, capturing the spirit of the music and the era. Concert photography also plays a crucial role today—it’s a powerful marketing tool that helps artists create a visual identity that resonates with fans and defines their legacy.

About Me: My Journey in Concert Photography 

I’m Wouter Vellekoop, and for over 20 years, I’ve been immersed in the wild, chaotic, and beautiful world of live music photography. What started as a favor for a friend’s band with a cheap camera has turned into a lifelong passion. I’ve chased the perfect shot from tiny clubs to massive arenas, always striving to capture the essence of live performances in all their raw, unfiltered glory. My style is all about authenticity—sharp, true-to-life images that tell the story without embellishment. And after all these years, the thrill of the chase hasn’t faded one bit.

Getting Started

Essential Gear for Concert Photography 

When it comes to concert photography, your gear is your lifeline. The fast-paced, ever-changing environment of a live show demands equipment that can keep up with the chaos. You need a camera that can handle low light, lenses that can capture the action from any angle, and accessories that keep you in the game, no matter what the night throws at you. 

Both DSLRs and mirrorless cameras have their merits, but in a world that’s moving increasingly towards mirrorless, you can’t go wrong with a solid mirrorless setup. Full-frame sensors are the gold standard here—they’re your best bet for handling the low light and wide dynamic range that concerts throw at you. The Canon EOS R5, Nikon Z9, and Sony A1 are some of the heavy hitters in this space, offering exceptional low-light performance, lightning-fast autofocus, and high burst rates to capture every moment. If you’re looking for more budget-friendly full-frame options, consider the Canon EOS RP, Nikon Z6 II, or Sony A7 III, which still offer excellent performance without breaking the bank. And don’t forget that with the market shifting to mirrorless, you can find some great bargains on second-hand DSLRs, like the Canon 5D Mark IV or Nikon D750, which are still highly capable cameras for concert photography.

But your camera is just the start. Your lens lineup is what will truly define your versatility as a concert photographer. The 24-70mm f/2.8 and 70-200mm f/2.8 lenses are the workhorses—perfect for most situations, with fast apertures that let in plenty of light. If you’re just starting out, the classic 50mm f/1.8 is a great, affordable prime lens that offers incredible image quality. And don’t overlook third-party lenses—brands like Sigma and Tamron offer fantastic glass that can save you a bit of cash without compromising on quality.

What’s in My Bag: A Breakdown of My Gear

So, what’s in my bag when I’m heading to a gig? It’s all about balance—speed, versatility, and image quality. I carry two Canon R5 bodies, both loaded with dual card slots for peace of mind. My go-to lenses are the RF 24-70mm f/2.8 and RF 70-200mm f/2.8, which cover most scenarios. For those wide, epic stage shots, I’ve got the RF 14-35mm f/4L IS USM and the EF 8-15mm fisheye in the bag too. And if I need serious reach, the RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1 L IS USM has got me covered. When I need to reach a little further, I pull out the EF 300mm f/2.8 with a 1.4x or 2x extender.

Accessories are just as crucial. Earplugs are a must—protect your hearing, folks. Spare batteries and high-capacity memory cards are non-negotiable, and I always have a lens cleaning kit handy because a dirty lens can ruin a great shot (you would be amazed how many photographers I see around with dirty lenses). I also carry a monopod for those long nights when you need a bit of stability but don’t want the bulk of a tripod. All of this is packed into a sturdy, comfortable camera bag that I can haul around all night without breaking my back.

Accessories You Shouldn’t Forget

Now, let’s talk about the unsung heroes of concert photography—the accessories. Sure, they might not be as flashy as a new lens, but they’re the things that can make or break your shoot.

High-capacity memory cards are essential. You don’t want to be halfway through a killer set and find out your card is full. Fast write speeds are also a must, especially if you’re shooting in burst mode. Lens hoods are your friends— They help cut down on glare from stage lights and provide some extra protection for your lenses if you accidentally bump into a barrier or something.

How to Choose the Right Camera and Lenses

Choosing the right camera and lenses is like crafting the perfect toolkit for your artistic vision. —what works best depends on your style, the types of concerts you shoot, and your budget. If you’re just starting out, don’t stress if you can’t afford the top-of-the-line gear right away. Start with what you have and upgrade as you go.

Full-frame cameras are ideal for their superior low-light performance, but if you’re working with a crop sensor, don’t worry—you can still capture incredible shots. Just keep in mind that crop sensors have a smaller field of view, so your lenses will behave differently than they would on a full-frame.

When it comes to lenses, think about the venues you’ll be shooting in. Smaller, intimate venues might call for fast primes like a 35mm or 50mm, while larger stages benefit from the versatility of a zoom lens like the 24-70mm or 70-200mm. And don’t forget about those wide shots—something like a 14-35mm can help you capture the full scope of the stage and crowd.

Mastering Techniques

The Exposure Triangle: Quick and Dirty

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty—the exposure triangle. If you want to be a master of concert photography, you’ve got to understand how ISO, shutter speed, and aperture work together. This is the foundation of everything you’ll do. 

ISO controls your camera’s sensitivity to light. In concert settings, you’ll often need to crank up the ISO to capture enough light in dark venues. But be careful—pushing the ISO too high can introduce noise, that grainy texture that can ruin an otherwise sharp shot. I usually start around ISO 2500, but every venue is different, so be ready to adjust on the fly.

Shutter speed is all about how long your camera’s sensor is exposed to light. In a concert, things move fast—singers are jumping around, guitars are swinging, and drummers are a blur of motion. To freeze that action, you’ll need a fast shutter speed—1/250th of a second is a good starting point. If the action is slower, like with a singer-songwriter strumming gently on an acoustic guitar, you can experiment with slower speeds to capture a bit of motion and make your shots sharper by lowering the ISO and crank up the aperture. Just remember, the slower the shutter, the more steady your hand needs to be to avoid unwanted blur.

Aperture, measured in f-stops, controls the amount of light that hits your sensor and the depth of field in your shot. A wide aperture (low f-number like f/2.8) lets in more light, which is crucial in low-light settings, and it also gives you that beautiful, blurry background that makes your subject pop. However, a wider aperture also means a shallower depth of field, so focus is critical. Start around f/2.8 or f/3.5 and tweak it based on what you’re shooting.

Mastering these three elements—ISO, shutter speed, and aperture—will give you the control you need to handle any lighting situation a concert throws at you. And the best way to learn? Practice, practice, practice. The more you shoot, the better you’ll get at finding the perfect balance between these settings.

Advanced Techniques for Capturing Concerts 

Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to step up your game with some advanced techniques. This is where you start turning good shots into great ones.

Freezing Action: Concerts are all about energy, and capturing that energy in a single frame can be challenging. A fast shutter speed will help you freeze those moments, but don’t be afraid to play around with it. Sometimes, a bit of motion blur can add to the dynamic feel of a shot, especially when capturing a guitarist’s hands flying across the strings or a drummer’s sticks in mid-air.

Dynamic Composition: Don’t just stand in one spot—move around, explore different angles, and anticipate the movement of the performers. Think about the story you want to tell with your shot. Maybe it’s the connection between the lead singer and the crowd, or the intensity of the drummer lost in the beat. Panning, where you move your camera along with the subject’s motion, can also create dramatic, energetic images with a sharp subject against a blurred background.

Exploring Different Angles: To stand out in a sea of concert photos, you need to get creative with your angles. Sure, the classic front-and-center shot is great, but if you want to stand out, you’ve got to get creative. Shoot from the crowd’s perspective, climb higher for a bird’s-eye view, or get down low to make the stage look even more imposing. The more you experiment, the more unique your shots will be.

Conquering Lighting Challenges

Concert lighting is a wild ride. One moment it’s dark and moody, the next it’s blindingly bright. You’ve got to be ready to adapt to these changes in an instant.

One trick is to slightly underexpose your shots, especially when dealing with harsh stage lights. This gives you more room to adjust in post-processing without losing details in the highlights. Adjusting your white balance is another must—auto white balance can struggle with the rapid color changes typical in concert lighting. Don’t be afraid to tweak it manually to get the colors looking just right.

LED lights can be especially tricky. They tend to cast very saturated colors that can be hard to balance, and they sometimes blink slower than your shutter speed, which can create unwanted banding in your photos. If you’re dealing with a lot of red or blue light, for example, you might need to do some color correction in post to bring back natural skin tones and avoid color casts that make your images look off. Experiment with different white balance settings on-site, but be prepared to do some heavy lifting in your editing software later to correct for both color and banding issues.

Focus Modes: AI Servo, Eye Focus, and Back Button Magic

When it comes to nailing sharp images in the fast-paced, unpredictable environment of a concert, understanding and mastering your camera’s focus modes is crucial. For Canon users like myself, AI Servo and Eye Focus are game-changers, especially with the advent of mirrorless technology.

AI Servo: This is Canon’s continuous autofocus mode, and it’s a lifesaver in concert photography where subjects are constantly moving. Whether it’s a singer jumping across the stage or a guitarist swinging their instrument mid-solo, AI Servo tracks these movements in real-time, ensuring your subject stays in focus even as they move toward or away from the camera. It’s essential for capturing those dynamic, split-second moments that define a live performance.

Eye Focus: With the rise of mirrorless cameras, Eye Focus has become a staple for many photographers. This mode automatically detects and focuses on the subject’s eye, which is particularly useful for capturing detailed, expressive portraits during a performance. On Canon’s mirrorless systems, Eye Focus can be used in conjunction with AI Servo, giving you the best of both worlds. This hybrid approach allows you to capture the energy and emotion of the performance without sacrificing focus on the most important part of the image—the artist’s eyes.

Back Button Focus: This involves separating the focus function from the shutter button and assigning it to a button on the back of your camera—typically the AF-ON button. By doing this, you gain more control over when and how your camera focuses, which is incredibly useful in the ever-changing environment of a live concert. It allows you to quickly switch between continuous focusing (AI Servo) and manual focus without having to change settings. It’s perfect for when you need to lock focus and recompose without worrying about your camera refocusing when you press the shutter.

Shooting Different Music Genres

Not all concerts are equal, and different genres of music can require different approaches to photography. Shooting a heavy metal show is a world away from capturing a jazz performance or an electronic music festival. The next examples are meant to illustrate three distinct possibilities you might encounter, but remember, the principles can apply across various types of live music events

Metal Concerts: At a metal concert, you’re dealing with fast-paced action, dark venues, and lots of intense lighting effects. You’ll want a fast shutter speed to keep up with the movement, and you might need to underexpose slightly to avoid blowing out highlights from the intense stage lights. Focus on capturing the raw energy of the performance—whether it’s the lead singer’s guttural scream or the crowd’s wild reaction. 

Jazz Performances: On the other hand, a jazz concert might be more about capturing the subtle expressions of the musicians, the interplay between them, and the mood of the room. Here, you might slow things down, use a higher aperture to get more of the scene in focus, and focus on the emotion of the performance. Jazz is all about the feeling, so look for those moments where the music seems to transcend the stage.

Electronic Music Festivals: Electronic music festivals are their own beast. The light shows are a huge part of the experience, with lasers, LEDs, and often smoke machines creating a constantly changing environment. Here, timing is everything. You need to anticipate the beats, the drops, and the moments when the lighting changes to capture the essence of the experience. A wider lens can help you capture the full scope of the light show and the crowd, while a faster lens will be your best friend when the lights drop low.

Dealing with Stage Effects: Smoke, Pyro, Lasers, Oh My!

Stage effects are part of what makes live music so visually exciting, but they can also be a challenge for photographers. Smoke machines, pyrotechnics, and lasers add drama and intensity to a performance, but they also require you to be on your game.

Smoke Machines: Smoke can be a double-edged sword. It diffuses light, which can create a moody, ethereal atmosphere, but it can also obscure your subjects if it’s too thick. When shooting in smoke, try to use backlighting to your advantage. Position yourself so the smoke is illuminated from behind, which can create striking silhouettes and add depth to your images. But be quick—smoke doesn’t stay in one place for long, and it can change the look of your shot in an instant.

Pyrotechnics: Pyrotechnics are thrilling but fleeting. These explosive moments happen fast, so you need to be ready. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze the action and capture the burst of flames or sparks in sharp detail. Positioning is crucial—find a spot where you can see the pyro in relation to the performers, so you capture the whole spectacle. And ofcourse try to find out when they go off, you can always try to bribe the pyro technician with a beer.

Lasers: Lasers are another challenge. They’re bright, they move quickly, and they can wash out your shot if you’re not careful. To capture lasers effectively, consider lowering your exposure slightly to avoid blowing out the highlights. Play with different angles to catch the beams in a way that adds to the composition, and remember that timing is key. Lasers often pulse in time with the music, so anticipate the rhythm to get the shot at just the right moment. Warning: lasers that directly shine in your lens can be dangerous for your eyes and your sensor.

The Business of Concert Photography

Breaking Into the Industry

Breaking into the world of concert photography isn’t easy, but with persistence, creativity, and a bit of hustle, you can carve out your niche. It’s a competitive field, and you’ll need to start small before you work your way up to the big leagues.

Begin by shooting local shows, even if they’re at tiny venues or community events. These gigs are great practice and a chance to start building your portfolio. Offer your services to local bands and venues—often, smaller acts are thrilled to have someone capturing their performances, even if you’re doing it for free or cheap to start.

Networking is your best friend here. Get to know the local music scene, connect with bands, and build relationships with venue owners and event organizers. Attend as many shows as you can, introduce yourself, and let people know you’re available to shoot. Over time, these connections can lead to bigger opportunities. 

Don’t underestimate the power of online networking, either. Reach out to local newspapers, music blogs, and online magazines. Offer to shoot concerts for them—many smaller publications are always in need of fresh content and may be open to working with new photographers. And remember, your online presence matters. Keep your social media accounts active, share your best work, and engage with followers

It’s all part of building your brand and making yourself visible to potential clients and collaborators.

Building a Killer Portfolio

Your portfolio is your calling card in the world of concert photography. It’s the first thing potential clients will look at, so it needs to showcase your best work and reflect your unique style. Here’s how to make sure your portfolio stands out.

Quality Over Quantity: It’s tempting to include every decent shot you’ve ever taken, but your portfolio should only feature your absolute best work. Each photo should tell a story, showcase your artistic vision, and reflect your technical skills. If a shot doesn’t do all three, leave it out. Remember, a smaller portfolio filled with stunning images is far more powerful than a large one with a few mediocre shots.

Show Versatility: Concert photography covers a wide range of styles, from intimate acoustic sets to full-blown stadium rock shows. Your portfolio should demonstrate your ability to handle different lighting conditions, genres, and venues. Include a mix of wide-angle shots that capture the full stage and crowd, alongside close-ups that show the raw emotion of the performers. Show that you can shoot everything from a high-energy punk gig to a laid-back jazz session.

High-Resolution Images: When selecting images, make sure they’re high-resolution. Blurry or pixelated shots are a big no-no—they distract from the quality of your work and give a bad impression. While it’s natural to worry about image theft, avoid adding watermarks, as they can be distracting. Instead, protect your work through methods like disabling right-click on your website or adding metadata to your images.

Consistency Is Key: Your portfolio should have a consistent look and feel that reflects your style. This consistency helps create a brand for your photography and makes your work instantly recognizable. Whether it’s your editing style, color palette, or the way you compose your shots, make sure it’s clear throughout your portfolio.

Keep It Fresh: As you grow and evolve as a photographer, so should your portfolio. Regularly update it with new work, and don’t be afraid to remove older images that no longer align with your style or abilities. This shows clients that you’re constantly improving and staying current. 

Consider Commercial Appeal: Include shots that feature recognizable brands, logos, or products, especially if you’re interested in working with commercial clients. Demonstrating your ability to capture commercially viable images can significantly enhance your marketability.

Networking Like a Pro

In the world of concert photography, who you know is just as important as what you know. Networking is the lifeblood of this industry, and building a strong network can open doors to new opportunities.

Start Locally: Begin by building relationships in your local music scene. Attend as many shows as you can, even if you’re not shooting. Get to know the people who run the venues, the promoters, and the bands. Introduce yourself and let them know what you do. Over time, you’ll become a familiar face, and when they need a photographer, you’ll be the first person they think of.

Pitch Your Work: If you’re aiming to get your photos published, start by reaching out to local newspapers, online music blogs, and smaller magazines. Send a short, well-crafted email that includes a link to your portfolio and a brief overview of your experience. Highlight what makes your work unique and why you’d be a good fit for their publication. Remember, larger publications often prefer photographers with more experience, so build your portfolio and reputation with smaller gigs before aiming for the big leagues.

Leverage Social Media: Don’t underestimate the power of social media. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook are invaluable for showcasing your work and connecting with others in the industry. Use these platforms to share your best shots, engage with your followers, and tag artists, venues, and festivals in your posts. Social media is also a great way to connect with other photographers, share tips, and keep up with industry trends.

Attend Industry Events: Industry events like music festivals, photography workshops, and conferences are perfect places to meet potential clients and collaborators in person. Face-to-face connections often have a more lasting impact than online interactions, and you never know who you might meet at these events.

Build Genuine Relationships: Networking isn’t just about collecting business cards or Instagram followers; it’s about forming real connections with people. Be friendly, be professional, and treat everyone with respect. The music industry is a small world, and a positive reputation can lead to countless opportunities down the line.

Legal and Business Considerations

Being a great concert photographer isn’t just about taking amazing photos. You’ve also got to protect your work and ensure you’re getting paid for what you do. Understanding the legal side of things is crucial.

Know Your Rights: First up is copyright and licensing. As the photographer, you automatically own the copyright to your images. But when you’re working with clients—whether they’re bands, venues, or publications—you’ll often need to license your images for specific uses. Make sure you understand the terms of any licensing agreements and ensure your work is properly credited. Don’t be afraid to discuss these terms upfront—clear communication can prevent headaches down the road.

Insurance: Another crucial aspect is insurance. If you’re serious about making a living from concert photography, invest in professional liability insurance and equipment insurance. Liability insurance protects you in case of accidents or legal disputes, while equipment insurance covers your gear if it’s lost, stolen, or damaged. It’s a small investment that can save you a lot of trouble in the long run.

Handling Rejection Like a Boss

Let’s face it—rejection is part of the game. Whether it’s not getting the gig, having a pitch turned down, or just not getting the response you were hoping for, it’s going to happen. The key is not to let it discourage you.

In a competitive field like concert photography, resilience is essential. Every photographer, no matter how successful, has faced rejection at some point. The important thing is to learn from it. If a publication turns down your pitch, ask for feedback and use it to improve your next submission. If a venue decides to go with another photographer, stay in touch—next time, they might choose you.

Stay motivated by focusing on why you started in the first place—a love for music and photography. Keep shooting, even if it’s just for yourself, and use each experience as a chance to improve. Over time, the rejections will sting less, and your successes will start to outweigh them.

Backup Strategies for Data Security

In concert photography, data security is no joke. Losing your images, whether due to a failed memory card, a stolen camera, or a computer crash, can be devastating. That’s why having a solid backup strategy is crucial. 

Dual Card Slots: First, always use dual card slots if your camera has them. This allows you to write your images to two memory cards simultaneously, giving you an immediate backup in case one card fails. It’s a simple step that can save you a lot of heartache. 

Back Up Immediately: After the shoot, the first thing you should do is back up your images to at least two locations—typically an external hard drive and a cloud storage service. This way, even if something happens to your physical backups, your files are safe online. Services like Backblaze or Google Drive are great options for cloud storage.

Regularly Update Backups: Don’t forget to regularly update your backups and ensure they’re working properly. It’s easy to forget about this until it’s too late, so make it a habit. For added security, consider using a RAID system or an off-site backup to protect against theft or natural disasters.

Shooting for Publications vs. Artists

When it comes to concert photography, who you’re shooting for can change everything. Shooting for a publication is different from shooting directly for the artist, and understanding these differences can help you tailor your approach.

Publications: When shooting for publications, your focus is often on capturing a broad range of images that tell the story of the concert. You’ll want shots that show the energy of the performance, the crowd’s reaction, and any special moments that stand out. Publications often have specific requirements for image resolution, aspect ratio, and file format, so make sure you know what they need before you start shooting.

Artists: On the other hand, shooting for an artist is a more personalized experience. Your goal here is to capture images that represent the artist’s brand and style. This might mean focusing more on the artist’s interactions with the crowd, their facial expressions, or the way they move on stage. When working directly with an artist, communication is key—make sure you understand what they’re looking for and deliver images that reflect their vision.

Both approaches have their own challenges and rewards, and mastering both will make you a more versatile and sought-after photographer.

Securing Long-Term Contracts 

One-off gigs are great, but if you want to build a stable career in concert photography, securing long-term contracts is the way to go. Whether it’s with a band, a venue, or a publication, long-term contracts provide steady work and allow you to build deeper relationships with your clients.

Build Trust Through Consistency: Start by consistently delivering high-quality work on time. If you’ve worked with a client on a one-time basis, make sure to overdeliver—provide them with more images than they expected, turn around your edits quickly, and always maintain a professional and friendly demeanor. Reliability is key—clients want to know they can count on you for every show, not just one-off gigs.

The Concert Experience

Preparation is everything in concert photography. Walking into a gig without a plan is a recipe for missed shots and frustration. Here’s how to make sure you’re ready for whatever the night throws at you.

Gear Checklist: Start with a gear checklist. The last thing you want is to realize you left something crucial at home. Before you head out, fully charge your batteries and pack extras. Format your memory cards to ensure you have plenty of space, and bring backups just in case. Organize your gear in a way that makes everything easily accessible in the dark, crowded environment of a concert venue. 

Camera Settings: When it comes to camera settings, it’s best to dial them in before you even arrive at the venue. Always shoot in RAW if you want to get the most out of your post-processing. RAW files retain all the data captured by your camera’s sensor, giving you maximum flexibility when it comes to editing. You’ll have more control over exposure, white balance, and color correction, allowing you to rescue details in shadows and highlights that might otherwise be lost in a JPEG file. Start with an ISO around 2500, depending on the venue’s lighting, and be ready to adjust as needed. Shutter speed should be set to at least 1/250th of a second to freeze action, but don’t be afraid to experiment with slower speeds for artistic effects. Use a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower) to let in as much light as possible and create a beautiful, shallow depth of field. 

Blend In: One of the unsung rules of concert photography is to blend into the background—literally. Wearing black is the way to go. It’s not just a fashion choice; it’s practical. Concerts are dark environments, and wearing black helps you remain unobtrusive, allowing you to move around without drawing attention to yourself. This is crucial because, as a concert photographer, you need to be a fly on the wall, capturing moments without disrupting the flow of the performance. The more invisible you are, the more authentic your shots will be.

Arrive Early: Arriving early is crucial, especially when you need to pick up your photo pass and scope out the venue. It’s also a good time to check in with the event organizers or the artist’s team if you have any questions about restrictions or special requests. Familiarize yourself with the layout, decide where you want to position yourself for key moments, and make sure you understand any rules specific to the venue, like the “Three-Song Rule” or no-flash policies.

Navigating the Photo Pit

The photo pit is where the magic happens, but it’s also a crowded, competitive space. Here’s how to make the most of it while maintaining professionalism.

Claim Your Spot: Arrive early to claim a prime spot in the pit. This gives you the best chance to capture those iconic moments, but remember, you’re sharing the space with other photographers, so be courteous. Everyone’s there to get their shot—don’t block someone else’s view, and if you’re tall, consider letting shorter photographers have the front row.

Three-Song Rule: Respect the “Three-Song Rule” if it’s in place. This rule, common in larger venues, limits photographers to the first three songs of the set. It’s designed to give you enough time to get your shots without overwhelming the artist or the audience. Use these songs wisely—get a variety of shots, including wide angles, close-ups, and crowd interactions.

Adapt Quickly: When the action starts, stay focused but remain adaptable. The lighting will change, the performers will move unpredictably, and you’ll need to adjust your settings on the fly. Practice changing settings quickly without taking your eye off the action—this will save you time and help you capture those fleeting moments.

Respect the Crowd: Be mindful of the crowd—they’ve paid to be there, and they deserve a great experience. Don’t block their view unnecessarily, and try to move quietly and efficiently when you need to change positions. If you’re shooting from the crowd, be respectful of their space, and remember that they’re part of the atmosphere you’re there to capture.

Capturing Key Moments and All Band Members

Capturing the essence of a concert means getting more than just shots of the lead singer. A great concert photographer captures the entire experience, from the frontman to the drummer at the back.

Know the Band: Research the band beforehand to know what to expect. Watch live videos if possible to understand their stage presence and anticipate key moments. This will help you be ready when the guitarist jumps into the crowd or the drummer pulls off a killer solo. 

Positioning: Position yourself strategically to capture all the band members. Don’t just stay in one spot—move around the pit (or venue) to get different perspectives. Drummers are often tucked away at the back, but a well-timed shot of them in action can be just as powerful as a shot of the frontman. Likewise, the bassist or keyboardist might not be in the spotlight, but they’re part of the story you’re telling.

Band Interactions: Don’t forget to capture interactions between band members. These moments of connection, whether it’s a shared smile or an intense look during a solo, add depth to your images and convey the energy of the performance.

Working with Venue and Artist Management

Building strong relationships with venue and artist management can make or break your experience as a concert photographer. Here’s how to keep things running smoothly. 

Communication: Communication is key. Before the show, reach out to the tour manager or event organizer to confirm all the details—your photo pass, shooting locations, and any specific requirements. Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures you’re prepared for any last-minute changes.

Understand Venue Protocols: Understand the venue’s protocols before you arrive. Each venue has its own rules regarding photography—some allow flash, others don’t; some have specific areas where you can shoot, while others let you move around more freely. Knowing these rules ahead of time allows you to plan your shots and avoid any conflicts with security or staff.

Professionalism: During the show, maintain professionalism at all times. Treat venue staff, security, and the artist’s team with respect, and they’ll likely return the favor. A positive relationship with these key players can lead to more gigs in the future and can make your current job a lot easier.

Photographing Festivals vs. Concerts

Shooting a music festival is a whole different beast compared to a single concert. Festivals are bigger, longer, and often more chaotic—but they also offer a unique set of opportunities.

Time Management: At a festival, time management is crucial. You might have multiple stages, overlapping sets, and a massive crowd to navigate. Plan your day carefully—know which acts you want to shoot and when they’re playing. Prioritize your top choices, but be flexible enough to adapt if something unexpected catches your eye.

Capture the Atmosphere: Festivals also give you the chance to capture more than just the performances. The crowd, the festival grounds, and even the food vendors all contribute to the atmosphere. Don’t be afraid to explore these elements in your photography. Wide shots that capture the scale of the event, candid moments of festival-goers, and behind-the-scenes images can all add richness to your portfolio.

Work Smart: Festivals can be physically demanding, so pace yourself. Carry only the gear you need, stay hydrated, and take breaks when you can. The more prepared you are, the better you’ll be able to handle the long hours and intense environment.

Working with Lighting Technicians

Lighting can make or break your photos, and at larger venues or festivals, the lighting technician is your best ally. Here’s how to work effectively with them.

Introduce Yourself: If you get the chance, introduce yourself to the lighting tech before the show. They might give you a heads-up on when big lighting changes are coming, or even adjust the lights slightly to help you get the shot.

Build Relationships: If you’re shooting regularly at a particular venue, build a relationship with the lighting team. Understanding their lighting style and preferences can help you anticipate changes and make the most of the lighting conditions. Over time, they might even tailor their lighting setups to complement your style of photography. 

Adapt to the Light: Remember, lighting is dynamic, and you need to be flexible. Adjust your settings on the fly, and learn to work with whatever lighting conditions you’re given. Whether it’s intense backlighting, harsh spotlights, or colorful LED displays, being adaptable will help you capture stunning images no matter what.

Post-Processing and Editing

Basic Editing Techniques 

Basic Editing Techniques: Editing is where your photos go from good to great. Even the best shot straight out of the camera can benefit from a little post-processing magic. This is especially true if you’ve shot in RAW, as RAW files retain far more image data than JPEGs. This extra data allows you to push your edits further without sacrificing image quality, making it easier to correct exposure issues, adjust white balance, and fine-tune colors. Start with color correction—concert lighting can cast strange hues over your images, so adjusting the white balance is usually the first step. 

Color Correction: Start with color correction. Concert lighting can cast strange hues over your images, so adjusting the white balance is usually the first step. Tools like Adobe Lightroom make it easy to fine-tune the colors, bringing out the natural skin tones while keeping the vibrancy of the stage lights. Adjust the temperature and tint to correct any color casts and ensure the image looks as natural as possible.

Cropping and Composition: Next, focus on cropping and composition. Sometimes, you’ll capture the perfect moment, but there’s something distracting in the background or the framing isn’t quite right. Cropping can help you tighten up the composition, focusing the viewer’s attention where you want it. Experiment with different crop ratios—sometimes a square crop or a cinematic aspect ratio can add a unique touch that enhances the overall impact of the photo.

Exposure and Contrast: Adjusting exposure and contrast is key to making your photos pop. Concert lighting can be harsh, with deep shadows and bright highlights, so use these adjustments to bring balance to your image. Be careful not to overexpose the highlights, especially in brightly lit areas, as this can result in loss of detail.

Clarity and Vibrance: Adding a bit of clarity can help define the edges and bring out the textures in your image, especially in the performers’ clothing, instruments, or stage elements. Vibrance can be used to subtly boost the colors without making them look unnatural. However, avoid going overboard—too much clarity can make your image look harsh, and too much vibrance can make the colors appear garish.

Advanced Post-Processing Tips

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to dive into more advanced techniques that can elevate your images even further. 

Noise Reduction: Noise is a common issue in concert photography due to the high ISO settings often required in low-light environments. Lightroom and Photoshop both offer powerful noise reduction tools that can help clean up your images without losing too much detail. Be careful not to overdo it, though—too much noise reduction can leave your images looking soft and unnatural. 

Sharpening: After reducing noise, sharpening is critical to bringing back detail. Focus on key areas like the performer’s eyes, instruments, or any other focal points in your image. Use masking in Lightroom to apply sharpening selectively, avoiding areas like the background where sharpening isn’t needed.

Selective Color Adjustments: Sometimes, certain colors in your image need extra attention. For instance, you might want to tone down a harsh red spotlight or enhance the blue tones in a smoke-filled scene. Lightroom’s HSL (Hue, Saturation, and Luminance) sliders allow you to fine-tune specific colors without affecting the entire image.

Optimizing Your Workflow for Fast Turnaround

In the world of concert photography, speed is often of the essence. Publications and artists may need your photos within hours, not days, so having an efficient workflow is essential. The faster you can deliver high-quality images, the more valuable you become to your clients.

Culling Quickly: Photo Mechanic is a lifesaver for quickly culling through thousands of images after a shoot. Its lightning-fast browsing capabilities allow you to select the best shots and sort them efficiently. Once you’ve made your selections, import them into Lightroom for in-depth editing.

Lightroom Presets: In Lightroom, take advantage of presets to speed up your editing process. Over time, you’ll develop your own presets that match your style and the typical lighting conditions you encounter at concerts. Applying these presets can give you a strong starting point for each image, allowing you to make further tweaks as needed.

Photoshop Actions: For more detailed edits, Photoshop is your go-to. After you’ve done the bulk of your editing in Lightroom, export your images to Photoshop for any final adjustments. This could include retouching, advanced color grading, or creating specific crops for social media. Set up actions in Photoshop to automate repetitive tasks, like resizing for different platforms or applying final sharpening.

Efficient File Management: Finally, make sure your file management is on point. Organize your images by event, and use clear naming conventions for your files. This not only helps you stay organized but also makes it easier to find images later when clients request them. Consider using Lightroom’s catalog feature to keep everything streamlined and accessible.

Tailoring Edits for Different Outputs

Different platforms and outputs have different requirements, so it’s important to tailor your editing process accordingly.

Prints: For prints, focus on high-resolution images with the finest detail and color accuracy. You may need to adjust the brightness and contrast to account for the differences between screen and print, ensuring that your images look their best in physical form. Also, consider the type of paper or medium you’re printing on, as it can affect the final appearance of your photos.

Digital Media: For digital media, such as websites and online galleries, resolution isn’t as critical as it is for print, but it’s still important to maintain quality. Optimize your images for web use by compressing them to reduce file size without sacrificing too much detail. This ensures fast load times while keeping your images looking sharp. Pay attention to color profiles—use sRGB for the web to ensure consistent colors across different devices.

Social Media: Social media requires a different approach. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter often compress images, so you’ll need to export them at the correct sizes to avoid degradation. Create specific crops that fit the aspect ratios of these platforms—square for Instagram, landscape for Twitter, and so on. Consider how your images will appear on mobile devices, as this is how most people will view them. Also, experiment with filters or slight color tweaks that might make your photos stand out in a crowded feed.

Leveraging AI in Post-Processing

The future of post-processing is here, and it’s powered by AI. Tools like Adobe’s Sensei in Lightroom and Photoshop, as well as standalone programs like Topaz Labs, are revolutionizing how photographers edit their images.

AI-Assisted Enhancements: AI can assist with everything from automated masking to intelligent noise reduction, freeing up your time to focus on the creative aspects of editing. For instance, AI-based noise reduction tools can clean up high ISO images more effectively than traditional methods, preserving detail while reducing grain.

AI-Driven Retouching: AI can also help with tasks like skin retouching, removing distractions, and even enhancing sharpness in out-of-focus areas. While AI shouldn’t replace your manual editing skills, it can certainly speed up the process and help you achieve results that would take much longer to accomplish by hand.

Batch Processing: Another advantage of AI is batch processing. Many AI-powered tools allow you to apply complex edits to multiple images at once, ensuring consistency across your entire shoot. This is especially useful for concert photographers who often deal with hundreds or even thousands of images from a single event.

The Future of AI: As AI technology continues to evolve, expect even more sophisticated tools to emerge, allowing you to push the boundaries of what’s possible in post-processing. Staying on top of these developments will keep you ahead of the curve and help you maintain a competitive edge in the fast-paced world of concert photography.

Marketing and Monetizing Your Work

Social Media Strategies for Photographers 

In today’s digital age, social media is more than just a platform to share your work—it’s a powerful tool for marketing and building your brand as a concert photographer.

Curate Your Feed: Your Instagram or Twitter profile should showcase your best work, but it’s also a place to express your personality and passion for music. Mix in behind-the-scenes shots, short videos, and even stories about your experiences to create a narrative that engages your audience. Consistency is key—maintain a cohesive aesthetic and posting schedule to keep your followers engaged. 

Use Hashtags Wisely: Hashtags and tags are essential for increasing your visibility. Tag the bands, venues, and festivals in your posts to get your images in front of a wider audience. Use relevant hashtags to reach potential clients and fans who are searching for content in your niche. But don’t overdo it—focus on quality over quantity when it comes to tagging and hashtagging. Research trending hashtags in the music and photography communities to tap into current conversations.

Engage with Your Audience: Engagement is key. Don’t just post and ghost—interact with your followers, respond to comments, and engage with other photographers’ content. Building a community around your work can lead to more opportunities, collaborations, and, ultimately, clients. Show genuine interest in others’ work, offer feedback, and be an active participant in online communities.

Create Themed Content: Consider creating themed series or challenges that encourage your followers to get involved. This could be as simple as a weekly “Throwback Thursday” post featuring one of your favorite past concerts or a more involved photo challenge where you invite others to share their best concert shots using a specific hashtag. Themed content can help you stand out and keep your feed interesting.

Monetizing Your Concert Photography

Turning your passion into a profitable business requires more than just taking great photos—you need to explore different revenue streams to maximize your earnings.

Selling Prints: One of the most straightforward ways to monetize your work is by selling prints. Set up an online store where fans can purchase high-quality prints of your best shots. You can sell directly through your website or use platforms like Etsy, Fine Art America, or SmugMug. Limited editions and signed prints can add exclusivity and value.

Licensing Your Images: Licensing your images to publications, brands, or artists is another lucrative option. This involves granting permission for your photos to be used in specific ways, such as in magazines, on album covers, or in promotional materials. Make sure you understand the terms of the licensing agreement and that you’re compensated fairly for the use of your work. Licensing can provide a steady stream of income, especially if your images are widely used.

Workshops and Mentoring: As you establish yourself as an expert in concert photography, you can offer workshops or one-on-one mentoring sessions for aspiring photographers. This not only helps others but also positions you as a leader in your field. Workshops can be held in person or online, allowing you to reach a global audience. Consider offering different levels of instruction, from beginner to advanced, to cater to a broad range of students.

Freelancing for Publications and Brands: Reach out to magazines, online publications, and brands that might need concert photography. Regular gigs with publications or brands can provide a steady income and increase your visibility in the industry. Build relationships with editors and marketing teams to secure ongoing work.

Collaborations with Musicians: Offer your services directly to musicians and bands, especially those just starting out. They often need high-quality photos for their social media, album covers, and promotional materials. By working directly with artists, you can build long-term relationships that lead to regular work and referrals.

Crowdfunding and Patreon: Platforms like Patreon allow your fans and followers to support your work directly. In exchange for a monthly contribution, they can receive exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access, or other perks. Crowdfunding can also be used to fund specific projects, such as a photo book or an exhibition.

Conclusion 

Final Thoughts and Inspirations 

Concert photography is a wild, thrilling ride, full of challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable moments. It’s about more than just taking pictures—it’s about capturing the energy, the emotion, and the essence of live music. Whether you’re shooting in a tiny club or at a massive festival, each show is an opportunity to create something unique, something that resonates with the audience and immortalizes the performance.

Keep pushing yourself to try new things, to experiment with different techniques and perspectives. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes—they’re just stepping stones on your path to mastery. And remember, the most important tool in your kit isn’t your camera or your lenses—it’s your passion for the music and the stories you’re telling through your images.

Further Resources and Learning Opportunities

If you’re hungry for more, there are plenty of resources out there to help you keep growing as a concert photographer:

• Workshops and Online Courses: Platforms like CreativeLive, Udemy, and MasterClass offer courses specifically tailored to concert and event photography. These can help you refine your skills and learn from the best in the industry.

• Photography Communities: Join online forums, Facebook groups, or local photography clubs to share your work, get feedback, and learn from others. Networking with peers can lead to valuable insights and new opportunities.

• Books and Blogs: Read up on the latest photography techniques, industry trends, and gear reviews through books and photography blogs. Continuous learning is key to staying ahead in the ever-evolving world of concert photography.

• Gear Reviews and Tutorials: Keep up with the latest gear and learn new tricks through YouTube channels, photography websites, and online magazines. Staying informed about new technologies and techniques can give you a competitive edge.

And don’t forget to visit my website, where you can find more tips, detailed tutorials, and access to presets and editing tools. If there’s a specific topic you’d like to see covered in future content, feel free to reach out—I’m always open to new ideas and love helping fellow photographers grow in their craft.

Script: Automatic Memory Card Import with Terminal (Mac)

The Nerd’s Guide to Lightning-Fast Photo Imports

As a photographer, your time is best spent editing and selecting your best shots, not manually dragging files from your memory card. I wanted to find the fastest and most efficient way to automate the photo import process on Mac, without dealing with Finder, slow transfers, or duplicate images.

The result? A Terminal script that automates the entire workflow:

• Imports photos from your memory card instantly

• Organizes files neatly by date

• Prevents duplicates using hash-based detection

• Displays a visual progress bar with ETA

• Opens Lightroom (or another app) when the import is finished

Why Use This Method Over Finder or Photo Mechanic?

There are many ways to import photos, such as Finder, Lightroom, or tools like Photo Mechanic, but this Terminal method has unique advantages:

⚡
Speed
Terminal and rsync are much faster than Finder or Photo Mechanic for transferring files.

🤖
Automation
No manual steps; just plug in your memory card, and the script does the rest.

Fewer Errors
No forgotten files, duplicate names, or corrupt transfers.

🔧
Full Control
Decide exactly how and where your files are stored.

💸 FREE!
No need for paid software — just a powerful and reliable script.

This guide will walk you through step-by-step so you can automate your photo import workflow on Mac in just a few minutes! 🚀🔥

Installing the Script

1. Open Terminal (Cmd + Space, type ‘Terminal’, press Enter).

2. Check if rsync is installed:

rsync --version

If you have an older version (2.6.9 or lower), update rsync via Homebrew:

/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"
brew install rsync

3. Create a script file:

nano ~/import_photos.sh

4. Paste the following script into the file:

#!/bin/bash

# 🔥 ASCII Metal Logo 🤘
echo "🔥 WELCOME TO CROP & ROLL IMPORT 🤘🔥"
echo "======================================="
echo "     \m/  \m/  \m/  \m/  \m/  \m/"
echo "======================================="
sleep 1  # Pause for effect 🤘

# ✅ Imported files database for incremental ingest
IMPORTED_FILES_DB="/tmp/imported_files.txt"
touch "$IMPORTED_FILES_DB"  # Ensure the file exists

# ✅ Remember last custom name
LAST_CUSTOM_NAME_FILE="/tmp/last_custom_name.txt"
if [ -f "$LAST_CUSTOM_NAME_FILE" ]; then
    LAST_CUSTOM_NAME=$(cat "$LAST_CUSTOM_NAME_FILE")
else
    LAST_CUSTOM_NAME=""
fi

# ✅ Function: Clean up old imported files (older than 90 days)
clean_old_imports() {
    local temp_file="${IMPORTED_FILES_DB}.tmp"
    local cutoff_date=$(date -v-90d +%Y-%m-%d)

    awk -v cutoff="$cutoff_date" '$1 >= cutoff' "$IMPORTED_FILES_DB" > "$temp_file"
    mv "$temp_file" "$IMPORTED_FILES_DB"
}

# ✅ Function: Check available disk space before import
check_disk_space() {
    AVAILABLE_SPACE=$(df -k "$HOME" | awk 'NR==2 {print $4}')
    AVAILABLE_GB=$((AVAILABLE_SPACE / 1024 / 1024))

    if [[ $AVAILABLE_GB -lt 10 ]]; then
        echo "⚠️ Warning: Only $AVAILABLE_GB GB free on your disk!"
        osascript -e 'display notification "Low disk space! Only '$AVAILABLE_GB'GB left." with title "Photo Import"'
    fi

    if [[ $AVAILABLE_GB -lt 2 ]]; then
        echo "❌ ERROR: Not enough space ($AVAILABLE_GB GB). Import stopped."
        osascript -e 'display notification "Not enough space! Import stopped." with title "Photo Import"'
        exit 1
    fi
}

# ✅ Function: Detect all SD cards
detect_sd_cards() {
    SD_CARDS=()
    for volume in /Volumes/*; do
        if [[ -d "$volume/DCIM" ]]; then
            SD_CARDS+=("$volume/DCIM")
        fi
    done
}

# ✅ Function: Check if a file has already been imported
file_already_imported() {
    local file_hash="$1"
    grep -q "$file_hash" "$IMPORTED_FILES_DB"
}

# ✅ Function: Add file hash to database after successful import
add_file_to_db() {
    local file_hash="$1"
    echo "$(date +%Y-%m-%d) $file_hash" >> "$IMPORTED_FILES_DB"
}

# ✅ Function: Start import of a single SD card
import_sd_card() {
    SD_PATH="$1"
    echo "🚀 Starting import from: $SD_PATH"

    # ✅ Ask for a custom name (suggest last used name)
    echo "📝 Enter a custom name (or press Enter to keep '$LAST_CUSTOM_NAME'):":
    read CUSTOM_NAME
    if [[ -z "$CUSTOM_NAME" ]]; then
        CUSTOM_NAME=$LAST_CUSTOM_NAME
    fi
    echo "$CUSTOM_NAME" > "$LAST_CUSTOM_NAME_FILE"

    check_disk_space
    clean_old_imports

    DEST="$HOME/Pictures/RAW"
    mkdir -p "$DEST"

    for file in "$SD_PATH"/*; do
        if [[ -f "$file" ]]; then
            file_hash=$(md5 -q "$file")  # Compute hash

            # ✅ Check if file has already been imported
            if file_already_imported "$file_hash"; then
                echo "⚠️ Skipping: $(basename "$file") (Already imported)"
                continue
            fi

            photo_date=$(stat -f "%Sm" -t "%Y-%m-%d" "$file")
            photo_time=$(stat -f "%Sm" -t "%H%M" "$file")
            basename=$(basename "$file")

            photo_dest="$DEST/$photo_date"
            mkdir -p "$photo_dest"

            newname="${photo_date}_${photo_time}_${CUSTOM_NAME}_$(basename "$file")"
            /opt/homebrew/bin/rsync -a "$file" "$photo_dest/$newname"
            add_file_to_db "$file_hash"
        fi
    done

    echo -e "\n✅ Import complete! 🎸🔥"
    echo "💿 Ejecting SD card..."
    diskutil unmountDisk "$SD_PATH"
}

# ✅ Main loop to allow multiple card imports
while true; do
    detect_sd_cards
    for SD_PATH in "${SD_CARDS[@]}"; do
        import_sd_card "$SD_PATH"
    done

    # ✅ Ask user if they want to import another card
    echo "🔄 Do you want to import another memory card? (y/n)"
    read answer
    if [[ "$answer" != "y" ]]; then
        break
    fi
    echo "📢 Please insert the next memory card and press Enter."
    read
    sleep 2
done

# ✅ Launch Lightroom only after all cards are done!
echo "🚀 All cards have been imported! Launching Lightroom..."
open -a "Adobe Lightroom Classic"

echo "✅ Script completed and exited!"
exit 0

Key Features and Customization

Changing the Destination Folder

By default, photos are saved in:

DEST="$HOME/Pictures/RAW"

To change this, modify the path. Example for an external drive:

DEST="/Volumes/ExternalDrive/Photography/RAW"

If you use cloud storage (e.g., OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive), you can change it like this:

DEST="$HOME/Library/CloudStorage/OneDrive/Photography/RAW"

💡 Make sure the destination folder exists, or the script will create it automatically.

Skipping Duplicate Files

The script prevents duplicate imports by checking file hashes (unique digital fingerprints for each file). This means renaming a file doesn’t trick the system, and exact duplicates will be skipped.

✅ How it works: Before importing a file, the script calculates its MD5 hash and checks if it’s already in the import history (imported_files.txt). If a file with the same hash exists, it is skipped.

✅ Code snippet from the script:

file_already_imported() {
    local file_hash="$1"
    grep -q "$file_hash" "$IMPORTED_FILES_DB"
}

✅ If you want to reset the history and re-import everything: Run this command before your next import:

rm /tmp/imported_files.txt

💡 The script automatically removes old import records older than 90 days, so you don’t need to manually clean up.

Changing the App That Opens After Import

The script opens Lightroom by default:

open -a "Adobe Lightroom Classic"

To open Capture One, change it to:

open -a "Capture One"

Or remove the line entirely if you don't want any app to open.

Adjusting the Import Naming Structure

By default, your files are renamed as follows:

YYYY-MM-DD_HHMM_CustomName_OriginalFilename

Example:

2025-02-06_1530_Concert-Metallica_IMG_4567.CR3

If you want to change the structure, modify this line in the script:

newname="${photo_date}_${photo_time}_${CUSTOM_NAME}_$(basename "$file")"

For example, if you want to include the photographer’s name first:

newname="Wouter-Vellekoop_${photo_date}_${photo_time}_${CUSTOM_NAME}_$(basename "$file")"

Making the Script Run

Running the Script Manually

Whenever you insert a memory card, open Terminal and run:

~/import_photos.sh

This will start the import process immediately.

Create a Terminal Alias

Create a shortcut by adding this line to ~/.zshrc:

alias import="~/import_photos.sh"

Create a Mac App with Automator

1. Open Automator and choose Application.

2. Add a Shell Script action.

3. Paste:

~/import_photos.sh

4. Save as, and you got your own application!

Conclusion:

With this script, importing photos on Mac becomes a seamless and fully automated process. No more manually dragging and dropping files, no more duplicate images filling up your storage, and no more waiting around—just plug in your memory card, and let the script handle everything. 🚀

By leveraging rsync for high-speed transfers, hash-based duplicate detection, and a structured folder organization, this workflow ensures that every import is fast, reliable, and optimized for photographers. Whether you shoot concerts, events, or portraits, this script will streamline your Mac photography workflow and eliminate unnecessary steps.

Key features that make this the best way to import photos on Mac:

✅ Fastest memory card import method using rsync

✅ Prevents duplicate images with hash-based verification

✅ Automates file renaming and organization

✅ Customizable progress bar and import settings

✅ Works with Lightroom, Capture One, or any editing software

This script is ideal for professional photographers looking for the fastest way to import and organize photos on Mac. Whether you’re dealing with hundreds or thousands of RAW files, it ensures a non-destructive, efficient, and fully automated workflow.

💡 Want to make this even better? If you have questions, feature requests, or feedback, feel free to reach out! I’d love to hear how this script is improving your workflow and what features you’d like to see next. 🚀🔥