The Black Lips live @ PMF2009. This show was insane. This was the first time I’ve actually gotten a little bit afraid while shooting and had to leave the photo pit for fear of injury. Actually, I was injured. The Black Lips are a rock/punk band out of Atlanta. They’re crazy. I’ve seen them before so I knew to expect out of control antics. So the show starts with the guitarist smashing his guitar pretty much in my face, with sharp flying pieces of guitar shrapnel flying into my face and body. Not fun. The show progressed, the crowd was wild. The band was wild. The barrier which failed earlier in the day was now being tested again. Near the end of the set, the band instructs the crowd to riot. Tells them all to jump the barrier and rush the stage, screw the security. They want everyone up there.
What?
Are you joking?
So people start flying over the barrier. The security force tried to hold them back, but when someone got over, they basically took them down. It wasn’t pretty. It was a bit of a beat down, with me trapped in the middle. I really was trapped without any exit route. I was tempted to go under the stage at one point.
Bam!
I get slammed against the stage by some drunk barrier jumper. ouch. At this point I’m not photographing much anymore, as I’m just trying to protect myself.
bam!
Slammed again.
This is hurting.
Seriously, I’m just trying to do my job.
Slam!
$&*#! that hurt! My shoulder is now trashed. Finally I see an opening between security and rioters and make my way backstage where it’s safe. Glad that is over with. Glad none of my gear was damaged but unfortunately my shoulder didn’t fair as well.
So, a big thank you to The Black Lips for the damaged shoulder and continued pain.
Edited to add: I should mention that the show was actually a great show. Everyone (except me, security, and the fans who got the beat down) had a great time. Really, it’s what is to be expected to a certain extent from The Black Lips. I just happen to get caught in the middle. It’s not the first time I’ve been injured doing my job, but it’s the first time I worried about my safety. Usually injuries are one off accidents, like a mic stand hitting me in the head, or a boot to the head from a stage dive, or something like that.
Anyway, you can check out The Black Lips Myspace and website for more information on the band, tour schedule, and stream some tunes.
The Black Lips Myspace
Official Website
by leighann
11 comments
Audrey Halpern Photography - Wow — sounds like a wild night! Hope you’re ok… Looks like you got some great shots though!
Kelly - Woah, sounds like a crazy concert! Great pictures though!!
katey - Wow. I’m all for rock shows, but that is waaaaaaay out of control. Fab images as always, Leigh Ann. You’re work always makes me say “woah!”.
leighann - Thanks everyone. Some of this goes with the territory. Usually it’s not an issue when there’s a photo pit. And this stage was too small to shoot from the stage, plus the light sucked! With no lights at all on the audience so it was pitch blackness. My shoulder still hurts but it’s not as bad as it was last Jan when I injured it.
Kelly Ridgell - Sounds insanely dangerous! But at least you got some awesome shots!!
Allison Parker - Oh my gosh! Not only do you have to insure your equipment, but yourself too!!! And, I thought toddlers were dangers;o)
leighann - Haha. Toddlers are only dangerous if you consider cheerios a weapon.
Yvonne - I’m glad you’re OK and hopefully your shoulder heals soon. But hey…you got some great pics!
Vinita - Sounds like you are better now…I hope your shoulder is back to normal real real soon! Wow!what a story..a serious battle field out there!Great images captured!Truly a rocktog
alison - woah!
I am glad you are ok and still managed to get such cool shots!
I have been stuck in a crowd at a show like that and it was terrifying! I love me some punk rock, but I am not a big fan of pain
great job in the face of adversity!!
Faith Watson - Hey Leigh Ann, I just spent a ton of time drooling and and grinning within the pages of this site. I’m sorry I never visited sooner, but sure am glad I did now. This art is magnificent! I’m so proud to be linked to it and you–via the internet but even moreso in spirit. You are a fantastic talent and I’m really hoping to connect someday when you’re in Chicago.
The baby/toddler pics are incredible, your travels…and of course, so are you. Thank you for the privelege of viewing all this!