Taking photos at an event and not seeing it as a job with deliverables is both liberating and at the same time probably not the mindset to have, especially if trying to find clients and I think that goes hand in hand with "Ignorance is bliss". If you only pursue event photography as a passion, shooting for yourself you don't need to care about getting the shot that defines the event for someone else. You find the shot that defines it for you.
Red Bull Knock Out sign welcoming everyone into the venue
Going to RBKO was for me, not to find work or network with Red Bull or Riot. I came with only one lens and one body, trying to go back to before I started chasing to work at events. Was it limiting? Yes. Would I have been able to get more shots from different perspectives if I bought a second lens? Also yes but that wasn't the aim for me. I wanted to attend and go back to basics in how I used to attend events. Some things have changed since I started chasing this career. Life, technology, other commitments. But I do love taking photos and to say I've been complacent or "boring" would be very true in my eyes. I've saved and saved to leverage the gear but I haven't done anything with it.
Red Bull Knockout Stage set up
This event has made me remember it doesn't matter if you have professional gear or not, get your elbows out, get in the crowd, get in with the other photographers and get your shot. I don't mean block other people, don't be rude. Everyone has as much right to be there, maybe more so if they're working but move your body, use your legs, get in the thick of it and stop being lazy taking your shot from the back. Don't be afraid.
You can find my full album here - Red Bull Knock Out
Zeta 2winz wins RBKO. Haru making a Z sign with his hands
