Audiomack ARTIST GUIDE
Artists 101
How do I get press shots?
Press photos are an important part of the artist story. They will be used in your marketing and help communicate who you are and what your music might sound like to someone before they even press play. Good photos are valuable at any stage of career, so make sure you have some. Lean into your personality, and make sure your photos are natural and authentic.
“The camera in your phone can always shoot images good enough for every online use, and virtually good enough for almost every print use. If you’re just starting out and have no budget, ask a friend to take some shots. Make sure you have a variety, whether color, B&W, horizontal, vertical, portrait and landscape. You want a number of options, first so you can edit out all but the very best, but also so they can be used in different situations. However, remember to make sure they are always on-brand.
“As you grow, start looking to see what other acts are doing, and find out who is taking their photos. And don’t be afraid to barter for services: many aspiring photographers would jump at the chance to see their work used as the cover for an album or single.”
—Mark Tavern, Music Industry Educator
“Hire a photographer and don’t overthink a publicity photo! Wear something nice and be yourself, and get a couple different shots from a photographer.”
—Ryan Hobbs, Pandora
“You have to identify who you are first, as an artist, and how does that translate in your personal style? The easiest thing, when it comes to fashion, is to lean into your authenticity and the things you enjoy. Wear those things. Then find you a photographer you like, who can take some professional photos for you. I always go lifestyle over headshot.”
—MeLisa Heath, Artist Manager
