Should Taking A Photo Get You Kicked Out Of A Concert?

Should people get kicked out of Hudson Valley concerts for taking pictures? At a recent A Perfect Circle gig in Reading, Pennsylvania, 60 people were kicked to the curb for breaking the bands photo and video policy. The rule is in place at venues across the country but is rarely enforced, but in this situation it most certainly was.

APC guitarist Billy Howerdel gives reasons via Billboard Magazine, reminding people that Maynard James Keenan has had this policy in place for 25 years. They feel it's important to disconnect from your device for a bit and reconnect with real live humans. Not to mention the fact it's rude to people around you trying to watch the show. Plus most bands want to make sure the best possible version of their performances are seen by the fans. If someone catches crappy footage to go along with crappy audio, that doesn't help anyone.

I try to keep myself in line these days but I'm guilty of breaking policy a few years ago. I captured this video of Chris Cornell at a 2011 Bardavon show in Poughkeepsie and this moment will live on despite the crappy camera on my phone at the time. I think the key here is to be respectful to venue staff. If you get caught, don't be a jerk about it. And maybe you should put the phone down for an hour or two, could be good for you.

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