I happened to get really lucky with this shot. The venue was extremely dark with little lighting. I happened to have my photo ready at the right time for the strobe light to flash on Greg, the bass player/backup vocalist. I couldn't be happier with the outcome I was able to get.
Perfect timing aside, what I try to do when I shoot a vocalist is get a clear shot of their face without being blocked by the microphone. I also prefer to capture their eyes either closed or looking out at the audience. You've got some good emotions here, but that darn mic is annoying.
Was this shot in RAW? Do you think you might be able to tame the hot spots on the side of the mic body and the cable in the foreground?
I'm partial to black and white concert photography, especially loud hard rock or metal music.
Here are a couple of examples of mic placement in my compositions:
Yes, this is a raw file. I planned on playing around with it a little more. I noticed after export it was glowing a bit. I appreciate your tips! This was my first shot at concert photography. So I was kind of winging it, along with the venue being small and being I could barely move, so I was battling with positioning. I agree, I'm a bit bummed the mic was right there on his face. Will keep your tips in mind on the next show I shoot. Feel free to throw out any other tips you may have. Thanks again for your feedback!
while "avoid the mic or stand" is a common rule of thumb this shot it works. I kind of like it. Wait...I love it. Being a musician turned concert photographer I know that often a singer or even back up singer have to use the the mic as a point of interest to really dive into a lyric or even just a keep a melody in key and this shot makes me feel this guys is into that moment...well done!