Listen up. I don't visit many forums these days and quite honestly I don't have time to. I did, however, read the policy on the PNC venue website an hour prior of me attending the event. Taking with me an expensive camera isn't my 1st choice of things that I'd want to do especially if I went someplace like Radio City where I would have a chance of not even being allowed in.
Now, in this case, since I was allowed in the PNC arts center with my camera, and yes, I was snapping shots of Crimson Projekct like crazy with the center aisle guard watching me without peeping a word, thought to myself, it's approved. The fella at the gate asked me if my camera has a detachable lens. I showed him that it didn't and he said, go on in. Afterall, they let me in with my camera. If they didn't, I wouldn't mind walking back to my car and locking the camera away.
It's that simple. But again, I never thought to go to DT.net and read the policy, or a blurb news flash, stated from the band. But now that I was made aware that there is a statement (from the band or spokesperson), I'm fine with that. I just was not aware that DT doesn't want photographs. Typically the venue would permit or not and that's the end of it. I totally respect it and will leave the camera at home from now on.
This past show was the first time that I brought a camera, throughout my countless times that I've seen DT since the Charlie Dominci days. I typically just like going and enjoying my ass off, but thought that since I'm already 6 rows from center stage, why not have a little fun. Plus, I'd get some nice shots of Johns JP12 and the rest of the gang. I really wanted to get shots of JP's silverburst as my good friend Rich owned it's only twin. I wanted to take the shot and share that photo, but I didn't since I was asked not to.
I also agree about the fans and holding camera's up in faces, flashes, etc. When I shoot photos, I was very courteous of those behind me and used the viewfinder rather than the display or held it up in the air. I was able to get my photos with the camera very close to my body, elbows tight intended not to offend anyone at all around me.
I was taken aback when the lady with the headset on came over and basically started reprimanding me like I knew all of this prior to attending. Most of the staff who were being told not to take photos with their phones were mostly all using their light flashes, and I figured, that I'm not, so it's casual (like the venue policy stated).
Anyway, I respect the bands wishes and I won't be doing it again, now that I am aware of it. I did take notice how there were about 4 professional photographers at center stage who took about 20 shots in the first opening number. Once they were done, they left the area and the security started being strict. While they were all shooting, so were the 50 other people in my general area..
I don't need to defend myself nor my actions, I just simply was not aware, and now I am. Rock on!