World of Weird Al Yankovic

From my experience, it seems Al doesn't mind fans taking pictures, even with SLR cameras, as long as you don't have a mile-long zoom lens. However, each venue's camera policy is different, and some venues are VERY strict about cameras. Many venues only allow point-and-shoot cameras, and some don't allow cameras at all. Unfortunately, the security staff will enforce the venue's policy at the concert, and probably won't care what Al's camera policy is. Call the venue ahead of time to get clarification, and talk to a manager.

Psst, Fred is a she. Ive Had security tell me that Al's people are the ones that tell them they don't allow cameras. Then when showed wa.com, they say that it is theatre policy. I guess they just don't want flashes goin off, which makes sense as it is a distraction to people in the audience. Calling the theatre is your best bet

minnick27 wrote:Ive Had security tell me that Al's people are the ones that tell them they don't allow cameras. Then when showed wa.com, they say that it is theatre policy.

Mmm, I've seen this happen before too (with other artists). Is there a specific page on wa.com that discusses photography then?

Those pictures came out awesome Kristine, Ive never seen such clear and well taken photography, that a concert goer took at a show that is.

S-D wrote:

minnick27 wrote:Ive Had security tell me that Al's people are the ones that tell them they don't allow cameras. Then when showed wa.com, they say that it is theatre policy.

Mmm, I've seen this happen before too (with other artists). Is there a specific page on wa.com that discusses photography then?

Well the gallery where they have photos taken by fans at concerts.

Yeah, it's up to the venue... which sucks because more and more venues are cracking down on what's "professional" and what's not. Any lame brain can go buy a DSLR these days, so why pick on them?? It's frustrating. And now some venues make it harder to get a photo pass. Last year for the OC Pac Amp shows, I couldn't just get a sticker through Al's people like I've done in the past. The venue wanted press credentials from me, which I don't have... I'm a freelance low-light photographer, not press. Political BS. You'd think the venue would be happy to have free advertising in the form of better, professional photos. Especially if the artist is giving permission anyways.

Kristine wrote:Yeah, it's up to the venue... which sucks because more and more venues are cracking down on what's "professional" and what's not. Any lame brain can go buy a DSLR these days, so why pick on them?? It's frustrating. And now some venues make it harder to get a photo pass. Last year for the OC Pac Amp shows, I couldn't just get a sticker through Al's people like I've done in the past. The venue wanted press credentials from me, which I don't have... I'm a freelance low-light photographer, not press. Political BS. You'd think the venue would be happy to have free advertising in the form of better, professional photos. Especially if the artist is giving permission anyways.

Yes, I certainly don't understand venues that are stricter than artist policies. After all, it unusual to be able to see much of the venue in the concert shots anyway...

What is involved in acquiring the sticker through Al's people? Is this a special arrangement you have, or something that can be applied for? I'm not looking to use these photos for anything commercial, just for personal use. And I'll definitely only be using my fastest lens, which is a compact 50mm f/1.8, nothing obnoxious (and no flash, of course ).

Like the saying goes, it's not about what you know, but who. I'm friends with the right people.

Kristine wrote:Like the saying goes, it's not about what you know, but who. I'm friends with the right people.

Ah, ok. Sounds like I should just be chancing it and contacting the venue alone then.

Here are a few shots from last night's show in New Brunswick. Click below for my full set of 100 photos.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/rcwiki/set ... 763324934/