So when my favourite band goes on tour again at the end of next year or summer of 06 (they might be doing random shows in the states earlier I might try to attend), I plan to be fully prepared. I'm getting a new camcorder solely for the purpose of recording the shows. Now, it might be tricky since we're not even allowed to bring cameras in, but I'll try anyways. So I'm planning on getting a REALLY small cam, hoping for the Sony MicroMV. Anyone have any tips for me?? Please? 
i started stealthing shows in 03. here are a few suggestions:
1. bring a 'buffer' (person to stand/sit with you). they can be endlessly helpful. all you need is a nudge from them to let you know security is coming and it's time to cover up.
2. location - if you know the venue well get seats that are raised up and kind of off the beaten path. balconies are a huge plus. also think about where you'll be in relation to walkways/human traffic. if you are unable to get the seats you want, get good seats early (when the concert goes onsale) and when the show happens go to somebody with a seat that you want and trade them. if it's a smaller venue look for tables that are lifted up
3. no matter how you decide you are going to hold/hide your camera you have to find a way were you can use the viewfinder. if you don't you'll just end up with a whole lotta drift/shaking and your efforts will be wasted. devising a system to not look too out of the ordinary and being able to look through the viewfinder are PARAMOUNT.
4. extra tapes/finished tapes - when you have to change tapes, either give the tape to your buffer or put it somewhere it won't be found. i was workin on a 2cam mix with my buddy and he got popped at the end of the show. luckily he had stashed his first tape in his sock, so they only got the 2nd tape from him and i got the whole show... so it worked out. having a hiding place or a blank to make the old switcheroo with is a great safety net.
5. battery. dunno who your favorite band is, but mine plays longer than 80 minutes, which means you need an extended battery. these can have up to 7-8 hours of life. they cost around 100 bucks. get one the day you get your camera if you intend to film, you'll need it.
6. digital zoom - i would suggest never using this feature. it will make the footage very pixelated and shaky. if you fear your optical zoom isn't enough - get an extender lens.
7. always preview security before going in. know who the weak guys are and make sure to go to them when entering.
i hope this helps. i was just rattling off some things that i thought of right away that you'd wanna know.
sounds like there are some other experienced tapers in here too, surely they will have some helpful hints too.
also - good luck =)
Topic: Tips on Recording Live Shows? (Read 9771 times)