As a concert photographer you travel to venues both near and far. You’ve got to get yourself and your gear to each safely and efficiently. In this post I will mention a few ways and items that help get you to your destination in the best way possible.
Headed to Orlando to work with some clients. Stuffed my backpack full of clothing and my Pelican case full of camera gear. No time to check bags!
Let’s start with what you will likely start with and that’s a bag. There are many different types of photo bags and you will have to choose what is best based off your gear and level of travel. I have 2 camera bodies, 3 lenses, a flash, and monopod that I take to nearly every show and sometimes a computer as well. I use a backpack with two should straps and a strap to connect them over my chest. It fits all the gear that I need to take to any local show and more pending the gig. Sure some of the single strap bags may look nicer but if you have to carry your gear all day then you need comfort, not fashion. Another great feature of my bag is that it has a waterproof cover. I have been at several outdoor shows where it rains unexpectedly and that thing has been a lifesaver.
Twinning cases with Michael Jeffery of Atlas Genius
Once you start traveling further from home and realize that you’re at the airport all the time you may think about getting a hard case in order to protect your gear when you’re on the go. There is only one answer to this problem and that is Pelican Products. Not only do they protect your gear from getting crushed and tossed around but also they are waterproof. Pelican offers several different hard cases with inserts made of foam, TrekPak, or padded dividers. I am currently using the Pelican Products 1510 w/ padded dividers and the lid organizer. The 1510 is the maximum size allowed as a carry-on for the FAA. It has a retractable handle w/wheels for easy access transport. The padded dividers allow for custom compartments for your gear as well as changeability when you get new gear. The lid organizer is great for those small camera items you have such as; lens cleaner, chargers, memory cards, etc. Pelican Products recently released their “Air” line which are 40% lighter but just as safe. One of these will likely be my next purchase!
Bunbury 2016 got a bit wet but my gear was safe!
A BIT OF AIRPORT ADVICE
Think ahead. If you are able to not check a bag then don’t. I bought the 1510 for that reason. I don’t trust anyone including an airline with my gear. So the 1510 stays with me at all times. Not only safety of gear but you save so much time by not checking baggage. I cannot tell you how many times I have shown up to the airport within 30 minutes of my flight and had no issues.
A FEW OTHER FUN TRICKS
Pending your access you may be able to place your gear in the greenroom of one of the bands. If you know them and trust them then this is likely the safest place for your gear. Unfortunately, we do not always get that access. Make sure you grab those FAA locks for your backpack or Pelican case to keep everything secure. Another thing that I do now and again is handcuff my 1510 to a permanent fixture. Yes, you heard me correctly. I have a set of handcuffs on the handle of my 1510 and I can lock it to whatever I want. I even lock it in my car in order to protect it if my car happens to get broken into. Think about getting an airline credit card. Not only does it help you save on flights but also sometimes comes with some great upgrades or perks! I personally use Southwest as they fly out of my hometown very often.
Taken on an iPhone 6