Posted by Like everyone else, Ive been taking a few moments to reflect on 2023; good, bad and indifferent! But let me address the “bad” first. In regard to Long Island Sounds, there was only one incident that I can consider bad! I was asked to cover a certain event and I assured the individual I was looking forward to it as I had seen it posted earlier that day! The event was only mentioned as a side note in any further conversations I had with the individual but it was never questioned whether I was still going to be there or not. So on the day of the event, I showed up to the door and told the ticket takers that I was on the list. After they searched for the “list” they inquired as to who’s list I was on. I told them that I was the photographer and gave them the name. A woman walked over as she noticed there was mild confusion. She informed me that there were no lists and that it was going to be $25 dollars to attend the event. I immediately told her that I was the photographer for the event and told who my contact was, to which she replied, that’ll be $20!! No word has been spoken by me or the “contact” for the event since!
As for indifferent? Ive been putting myself out there as a live event/concert photographer with experience with band/artists portraits. Ive slowly been gathering clientele and building my portfolio, but its an ongoing process as Im still learning the ins and outs of what improvements can be done. Ive also been learning the art of CYA, Cover Your Ass!! Small details have been overlooked and certain questions were never asked. I call these items, Lessons Learned!
And finally, the good!
2023 has been a great year for me in regard to covering bands both local and international recording artists that graciously step foot on Long Island. Some of the highlights include covering Marc Anthony when he performed at MSG, although my coverage was for another music outlet, not Long Island Sounds. I was finally approved to shoot from the “pit” at Northwell Health/Jones Beach Amphitheater and covered Mudvayne/Coal Chamber/Non Point/Gwar/Butcher Babies & Styx with support acts Joe Bonamassa and Don Felder who did not grant “pit” coverage.
Other highlights include Constantine Maroulis, Alter Bridge, Winery Dogs, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Queensryche/Marty Friedman, Cheap Trick, Tom Keifer, Gov’t Mule, Peter Frampton, Rick Springfield and Ace Frehley!
It should also be mentioned that Long Island Sounds has personally been reached out to cover other artists including Lauren Calve, Veronica Swift, John Lodge, Killer Queen, Decadia & Devon Allman in regard to covering his 50 shows in 50 days, which unfortunately didnt work out. It should also be mentioned that Veronica Swift has yet to be covered and John Lodge of the Moody Blues may not coincide with Long Island Sounds schedule unless a “freelance” photographer/journalist can be made available.
Here are a few highlights from this past years coverage and I look forward to bringing you all more coverage throughout 2024!!
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL AND THANK YOU FOR VISITING LONG ISLAND SOUNDS!!
Long Island Sounds 