Most photographers never get the chance to learn concert photography from someone who actually does it for a living. This workshop gives you exclusive, real-world training from a top tour photographer so you can capture incredible live music images with confidence.
🔥 Does This Sound Familiar?
• “I never know what settings to use with low, fast-changing stage lights.”
• “My concert shots don’t have the pro look I see from others.”
• “I’ve watched YouTube tutorials, but I need hands-on guidance.”
• “I’d love to shoot live music, but I don’t even know where to start.”
👉 Now imagine this instead:
• You know exactly what camera settings to use, even in tough lighting.
• Your images have the same wow-factor as pro tour photographers.
• You’re learning directly from someone who’s shot for Luke Combs, Bon Jovi, and Sports Illustrated.
• You’re confidently shooting an entire live show and capturing professional band portraits with off-camera flash.
💡 This workshop makes that transformation happen.
✅ What You’ll Learn
This isn’t just access to photograph a concert. It’s an immersive masterclass in concert photography.
• Camera settings & gear: Get the perfect exposure, even in crazy lighting.
• Framing & composition: Find pro-level angles in any venue.
• Remote camera setups: Capture unique shots other photographers miss.
• Live shooting experience: Apply everything you’ve learned—at a real show.
• Band portraits with flash: Learn to create professional-looking promotional images on location with off-camera lighting.
🌟 Learn from a Photographer Who’s Shot It All
Canon Explorer of Light David Bergman is a NYC based tour photographer and photo educator with more than 30 years of experience in the industry. Currently the official tour photographer for Luke Combs, he has also travelled the world with Bon Jovi, has 13 Sports Illustrated covers to his credit, and hosts the popular YouTube series, “Ask David Bergman.” Now he’s sharing his hard-earned knowledge to help you take your photography to the next level.
“Shoot from the Pit is by far one of the most valuable workshops you can attend. The knowledge that David brings to the table can’t be found in a classroom or on Google. Hands-on experience is the best way to learn, and this workshop is the ultimate challenge for any photographer. Truly an unforgettable opportunity!” – Ben G.
“David is a natural teacher. He gave both experienced photographers and newbies what they needed to have an incredible night. Five-star experience that I hope to repeat!” – Caroline F.
“This workshop far exceeded my expectations and the experience was priceless. I’m so glad David is willing to share his knowledge and help people along the way. His knowledge and experiences are second to none, and he went above and beyond to make sure we got what we needed and enjoyed the experience.” – Sarah
The workshop starts at 1pm sharp and it’s over after the show at approximately 10:30pm. Late entry is not permitted, so plan accordingly.
Workshops are limited to 12 photographers to give every attendee the best, most personalized experience possible.
No. We have made arrangements for you to have a special workshop pass for the show and you will be shooting pictures all night long.
We will eat dinner at the venue, and your workshop fee includes a $50 credit for food and drinks throughout the day. The venue will track your order, and if you go over $50, you’ll simply pay the difference. Since this is a special group arrangement, unused credit is non-refundable—but trust us, the food at Category 10 is fantastic! Check out the menu here.
You are responsible for your own transportation to and from the venue. Specific entrance details will be sent before each workshop. Please note that a security screening is required, and no weapons of any kind are allowed inside. Parking is not provided, but there are various paid lots in the area. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, or getting dropped off by a friend, are also great options.
We will be doing a portrait session with the band during the workshop, but if you are just interested in attending a concert or getting a VIP experience with your favorite artist, this workshop is not for you. If you want to improve your photography skills and have the incredible experience of shooting a real, live show, then you are in the right place!
It’s fine if you’re not a fan. You will be learning practical, action photography techniques that can be applied to many other styles of photography. Most concert photographers will tell you that they barely even “hear” the music when they’re shooting a show. They’re too busy concentrating on the lighting and camera angles.
Yes. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses is required. Two bodies with two lenses are best if you have them, and fast zooms are recommended. The combo of the 24-70 and 70-200 2.8 lenses is ideal. Fast prime lenses will work as well. Slower zooms can be used, especially with newer bodies that look good at high ISOs. A kit lens will have some limitations, but you’ll learn how to maximize its effectiveness.
Large photo bags or backpacks are cumbersome in the photo pit, but you can leave them in the workshop room during the show. If you want to carry extra items near the stage, a small waist bag is recommended.
Don’t forget memory cards for your camera(s). Bring MORE than you think you’ll need. We can’t stress this enough. At least 128GB is recommended (256GB for stadiums) for each camera. You do not need to bring a computer with you.
You are ultimately responsible for your personal belongings including all camera gear during the workshop. Your cameras will be in the workshop room with David’s and we will do everything we can to keep it secure, but nothing is 100%. David uses a lockable camera bag and has insurance on all of his gear. You should always try to keep your cameras from being an easy target in any situation – workshops included.
Video is strictly prohibited anytime during the day or at the show, so keep that camera in photo mode.
US copyright law states that you own the copyright to the photographs that you take. The band is giving you the incredibly generous opportunity to photograph their show for educational purposes. By attending, you agree to post images only on your personal social media or portfolio/website for non-commercial use.
As concert photographers, you want to blend in and avoid drawing attention to yourself. The touring crew wears their “stage blacks” so you should also wear black or dark colors. Comfortable sneakers, dark pants and a black t-shirt or polo shirt are best. Please avoid bright colors or patterns since they might distract the performers or the audience. For outdoor shows in hot weather, shorts are OK. It is highly recommended that you bring earplugs. Hearing protection is key when working a concert.
Our workshops are within the abilities of average people in good health. You will likely be walking up stairs in the venue to get to various photo locations. Some locations require the ability to walk over uneven terrain or might require excessive kneeling while also carrying your photo gear.
All skill levels are welcome, but you should have a basic understanding of your camera functions and the desire to learn about manual exposure mode.
Attendees must be 21 or older to attend.
Future workshop dates and cities are announced first on the email list. Sign up to be notified and you’ll receive exclusive pre-sale access if/when they are available.
Due to the exclusive nature and small size of this workshop, tickets are non-refundable. At the end of the day, we are human beings, so if you have a major issue, contact us for assistance. If the workshop is canceled for any reason, you will receive a full refund of your ticket price. We are not responsible for any other expenses including travel that you may have incurred to attend the workshop.
By registering for the workshop, you are agreeing to these important, legal terms and conditions. Please read them. If you have any other questions, contact us for assistance.
David Bergman is a New York based music, portrait, and sports photographer and is a Canon Explorer of Light – one of the highest honors achievable by a professional photographer.
With more than 30 years of professional experience, David has photographed over a thousand concerts. He is the official tour photographer for Luke Combs and Bon Jovi – for whom he has produced three coffee table photo books. In addition to his other celebrity clients, David has 13 Sports Illustrated covers to his credit, and his high-resolution GigaPan of President Obama’s first inaugural speech was viewed by over 30 million people. His photos have also been featured in almost every major publication around the world.
David is an engaging and passionate public speaker and educator who hosts numerous video series’ for photographers including Adorama’s Ask David Bergman. Before moving to New York City in 2001, David was a photojournalist on staff at the Miami Herald and covered news and sports events around the world.
Follow David on Instagram @DavidBergman and see all his links at TheDavidBergman.com.