A.

It can be tempting to inject as much artistic “flair” as possible into your band photos, but before you start having fun with your photos, you should make a priority of getting a good set of color band promo photos taken. Color photos may not be as “fun” as black and white photos, but the bottom line is that your band photos are primarily a media promotion tool for the Band, and most media outlets want to work with color photos – and those who don’t necessarily want to work with color photos CAN work with color band photos. The reason? Color photos can always be run in black and white, but black and white photos can’t be run in color. If you only have black and white photos of the band on hand, then you will be closing the door to coverage in many different magazines/websites/papers who only run color photos.

Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t have another set of band photos that are more “fun” – use these photos on your website, on your merchandise, or in your cover art – but make a priority of having high quality color band promo photos in place for press use.

Other photo tips to keep in mind for your band promotional photos are:

• You don’t have to look like you’re posing in some staged family photo – don’t be afraid of injecting a little bit of personality into your pictures. If you’re not sure what to do, check out the promo photos of bands you like to get some ideas flowing.
• Have both high resolution (usually 300 dpi) and low resolution digital photos on hand for the press. Keep some hard copies ready to go as well – either print the band’s name under the photo like a professional head shot, or print up a small label with the band’s name and stick it on the photo yourself.
• You don’t have to shell out major money to a professional studio for good band promo photos. A friend with a good eye and a decent camera will work just fine.
• Don’t forget to provide photographer credits every time you send out a photo.

Written by Heather McDonald

For more education on careers in the music industry, check out: http://www.music-career-guide.com

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