For me a good promotional band photo is one that makes me think, “Wow, that’s cool, they are hot, why did they think of doing that! and wow that looks like a fun/odd/cool shoot”. Something that makes the viewer react to the flood of emotions or questions surging through their body. It is with these thoughts in mind that I approach each photo shoot (not only the band promo shoots).

Band photos are an important part of the bands website and online persona. It is one of the most visited pages on band websites and something that can help fans feel closer and more connected to a band. It can also mean having the edge to being featured in a magazine or not!

Here are some things to think about when planing your band shoot…

1. what does your music say?
2. Are these photos to help promote a new album/song if so how can you tie the name in?
3. What else do the band enjoy other than music? can this be used too?
4. Location?
5. Clothes?
6. Make a picture idea list?
7. Think about band composition?
8. Keep a good time schedule for the shoot?
9. it’s always best to use a professional band photographer so make sure you plan it with them as well
10. It may seem obvious but…

Also DON’T upload every single photo, alot of photographers will give you some that are so similar to each other that it is pointless, boring and just off putting for fans to troll through them all. This is especially the case with live photography where you can end up with some quite arty long exposure shots of the light show and your FX pedals and leads looking cool etc.

Band photos can also be used heavily in your CD and album artwork! So getting some strong creative ones is always a good start.

Check out Band promo and live music photography by ASYLUMseventy7 here. Then get committed to creativity!

And don’t forget that ASYLUMseventy7 can take care of all your Music artwork and design needs as well!