to record, or not to record?

If you’ve been to a concert in the smartphone era, you’ve inevitably seen the band come out & phones go up.  You’ve most likely seen more than one post or comment on social media about this event. “Put the phone down & enjoy the moment.”  I’ve clearly seen the comments & thought about this enough to sit down & let my fingers get to typing.

I am a photographer.  I remember playing with my mom’s camera as a kid.  I was the girl in high school who always had a camera in her backpack.  I can’t even imagine how much money my mom spent on developing my film. So, when I read these endless comments on a post where people go on and on about living in the moment, I have to stop and think this through.  I see what they’re saying, I really do; but, do I agree with them?

If you’re holding up your phone recording a concert, chances are you’re watching through your screen.  Yes, you could absolutely do that from the comfort of your home for free. While this is true, the experiences don’t compare.  While you may be watching through the screen on your phone, you’re still there living in the moment. You feel the energy that only a live show can bring.  It’s still a live performance whether you’re recording or not.  You can easily move your head to the left or right a few inches, and voilà you see it without your screen in front of you.

I am 100% at fault for recording videos at concerts.  I love going to live shows so much, that I am the person who will watch the videos at random times – the next morning, months down the road, a year or two later.  They bring back great memories, not only of the artist singing whatever song I shot at the moment, but of the whole night. If I traveled out of town for a show, simply watching that one video brings all of those moments from a weekend away back for me.  

So, I’ve come to this conclusion.  If you feel that people shouldn’t record videos at concerts, then don’t do it. Keep your phone in your pocket, do your thing & live in the moment.  However, if the person next to you is standing there, phone in hand recording song after song, let them. As long as their phone is not in your face & blocking your view, let them do it.  Understand that it is how they enjoy the concert & keep the memories alive in a way they prefer. It’s not causing harm to anyone, and I promise you, they’re still enjoying every second of the show.

About The Author

Stefanie Richardson

I was born & raised in Orlando, but chased my dream of living in Tennessee. There are plenty of more dreams to chase, and living here was the first step. I grew up on country music and remember riding around in my dad’s truck singing along to Reba, The Judds, and of course, King George. Pure Country was a movie that played often in our house. These days, I absolutely love following “up and coming” artists. Cale Dodds is my favorite; and I’m at his shows more often than not! I love everything about country music; the way artists appreciate their fan base, the loyalty the fans show their favorite performers, and how it brings people together. I am so thankful for the experiences and friendships that Got Country has given me.

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