‘No Cameras Allowed’ tells the story of a 26-year-old concert photographer who became famous by sneaking into festivals
posted Friday, July 25, 2014 at 2:59 PM EDT
There are a couple of awesome photographic disciplines, but being a concert photographer probably tops them all. Despite being one of the most stressful photographic careers -- thousands of people around you, loud music, hot and moist air if you're inside a concert hall, and constant running from one end of the stage to the other -- it probably is also one of the most entertaining and fulfilling.
Alas, becoming a respected concert photographer isn't an easy thing to do, especially not when you're young and need the money. As with most photographic careers, it takes a lot of time and effort to make yourself known and to land paying gigs. There is, however, apparently another way to become a famous and respected concert photographer.
James Marcus Haney, who is currently the official photographer of the English folk rock band Mumford & Sons, decided to do things a little differently. It all started back in 2010, when he -- unable to afford official tickets, let alone the gas to get there -- snuck into the Coachella festival to take pictures and videos of the bands playing there.
Afterwards, Haney snuck into dozens more festivals, such as Bonnaroo, Ultra, and even the famous Glastonbury festival in England. In order to get into the festivals without having to pay, Haney regularly forges wrist bands, press badges, poses as security or band members or simply jumps across fences and prays he doesn't get caught.
Despite the obvious moral questionability of his actions, one is inclined to say that the ends justify the means, as Haney has been incredibly successful in the past couple years, even making it to be Mumford & Sons official photographer after handing a video of his adventures (that featured the band) to one of their roadies.
His success as a concert photographer has not only made him known internationally, it also led to the creation of a documentary called 'No Cameras Allowed' which chronicles Haney's adventures on his way to becoming a respected concert photographer. You can watch a trailer for the documentary below, which should give you an idea about what Haney's been doing in the past few years.
Marcus Haney has a portfolio over at his website, and there's a very informative and entertaining interview with him over at Noisey. Unfortunately, we couldn't find any information on when and where the documentary 'No Cameras Allowed' will be screened next, but you may want to follow its facebook page to stay up to date.