These days we all carry cameras in our pockets. We can capture and record any event with very little effort and at a moment’s notice. Not surprisingly, a backlash has taken place. (From experience, anything that’s easy and rewarding enough for mass-adaptation is eventually frowned upon by early adopters.)
People are now derided for filming events instead of ‘being in the moment’. Kate Bush even banned cameras from her much-hyped comeback shows. Amongst all groups of friends, there’s always the inevitable member who photographs and videos goings on (that’s usually me), and while they might seem annoying now, in 20 years time when you want to look back, you’ll be glad for their amateur documentaries.
Having recently discovered some videos of my family that were taken in the early 90’s (when I was 5!), I am firmly of the attitude that its our duty to make sure future generations have an opportunity to see such material. Seeing your parents and grandparents as young people really changed my view of them, strangely putting my own life into perspective. While I’m sure future generations won’t care to see a Kate Bush concert that will undoubtably end up being available to buy anyway, seeing their mum/dad/uncle dancing, smiling and enjoying the event would be fascinating.
So loose your cool, and get that camera out. Take that photo. You’ll glad you did.
(Though I’m still not sure about iPads at gigs)
