At a concert, the person in front of me held their phone up for the entire set and said they paid for the ticket so they can record everything

Concert Etiquette: The Great Phone Dilemma

Ah, concerts—the live music experience that brings people together, ignites passion, and creates unforgettable memories. But there’s a growing trend that’s starting to sour the vibe: the infamous phone holder. You know the type. They stand in front of you, phone aloft, capturing every moment as if they’re the designated videographer for the night. Recently, at a concert I attended, I found myself behind one such individual, and their reasoning left me chuckling and shaking my head in equal measure.

“I Paid for the Ticket!”

As the lights dimmed and the first notes rang out, I settled in, ready to enjoy the show. But there it was: a bright screen held high, blocking my view of the stage. The person in front of me was clearly getting their money’s worth. “I paid for the ticket, so I can record everything!” they proclaimed, as if this was some sort of universal truth. And while I totally get wanting to capture a moment, I couldn’t help but think, isn’t there a better way?

To Record or Not to Record?

Let’s unpack this a bit. It’s totally understandable to want to document your experience. We live in a social media-driven world where sharing our adventures feels almost compulsory. But here’s the thing: concerts are about enjoying the live experience. You’re not just a spectator—you’re part of something bigger. When you’re glued to your screen, are you really soaking in the energy of the crowd or the performance itself? Or are you just trying to get the perfect Instagram clip?

There’s a fine line between capturing a memory and becoming a distraction. I mean, I’d argue that half the thrill of a concert is being present in the moment—the lights, the sounds, the people around you, all creating a collective experience. It’s hard to feel that connection when someone’s phone is blocking your view and their self-proclaimed role as the concert’s official archivist is in full swing.

Finding the Balance

So, how do we strike a balance? First off, let’s agree on some unspoken rules of concert etiquette. If you’re going to record, maybe limit it to a song or two, or the big finale. That way, you get your keepsake without turning the concert into a series of awkward angles and shaky footage. Plus, think of how nice it would be for the people behind you to actually see the show!

And here’s a pro tip: if you’re really keen on capturing the moment, why not invest in a good camera? I know, I know—who wants to lug around extra gear when you’re trying to enjoy a night out? But think about it: a decent camera can get you better shots than a phone, and you won’t be stuck with a bright screen in someone’s way. Plus, you can be that cool friend who has killer photos to share later!

Respecting Each Other’s Space

At the end of the day, a concert is about community. It’s about sharing an experience with fellow fans who love the same music. So, let’s respect each other’s space. If you must record, do it discreetly. And if you notice someone struggling to see because of your phone, maybe take it down for a bit. You paid for the ticket, sure, but so did everyone else around you. We’re all in this together!

The Memory’s in Your Heart, Not Just Your Phone

In the end, it’s those spontaneous moments that create the best memories—like the time the lead singer jumped into the crowd or when the entire audience sang along to a classic anthem. You won’t capture those on your phone, but you’ll feel them in your heart. A little less time behind the screen and a little more time in the moment can make all the difference.

Next time you find yourself at a concert, remember: it’s not just about the recording—it’s about the experience. So, let’s all try to be a little more mindful of those around us. After all, we’re there to enjoy the music, not make a movie!

Wrapping It Up

So, the next time you’re at a concert and someone decides to hold their phone high for the entire set, just smile. Understand where they’re coming from, but don’t forget to enjoy the show yourself. Because in the end, the best memories are the ones that live in your heart, not just on your camera roll. Let’s keep the magic of live music alive by being present, dancing, singing along, and soaking in every note and every cheer around you. After all, those moments feel bigger when you’re truly there, not just scrolling later.

Vinyl and Velvet