Legendary glam-rockers KISS proved they’re still the reigning kings of theater rock with a bombastic, over-the-top performance at Nikon at Jones Beach Theater on the Hottest Show on Earth Tour.
Photographer’s Notes
KISS has been on my ‘bucket list’ of bands since I began shooting shows. The makeup, costumes, over-the-top pyrotechnics and face-melting tunes – hands down, one of most fun and exhilarating performances I’ve ever photographed.
KISS was constantly hamming it up for photographers, especially the remaining original members of the band, bassist Gene Simmons and frontman Paul Stanley. They made sure that everyone got at least a frame of direct eye contact, a finger-point or an outstretched tongue thrust their way. With only the two songs to shoot, all this mugging was very welcome.
No photo pit for this show. The eight or so photographers were split into two groups and escorted to either side of the stage. I went into this gig focused on covering Gene and Paul, so I chose a spot stage-right with a clear view of both of them. Luckily, guitarist Tommy Thayer walked my way and I got some nice shots of him too. Drummer Eric Singer was positioned pretty far back which was a stretch even for a 200mm lens. My favorite moment was definitely when Gene, Paul and Tommy all rocked out at the front of the stage together.
I photographed this show with my Nikon D700 and Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8 lens exclusively. My exposure was 1/640+ and f/2.8 at ISO 1000.
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wawwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww paul is jesus christ !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Awesome pictures, particularly of Paul jumping (how does he do that in 7 inch heels at age 58?!). It was indeed a great show at Jones Beach!
Thanks Henry! It’s amazing to see Paul still jump around like a kid on stage almost 40 years since KISS started.
muy buenas fotos jejje quisiera que en el concierto de monetrrey mexico tocaran shandi ya que es una de mis canciones favoritas
Mucho gracias Alan!
Great job! I shot the Pittsburgh show from the pit and then from the soundboard. It’s beyond fun shooting this band. The lights, colors and antics. Nothing like it. Again- great job! Eric.
Thanks much Eric! You’re right, KISS is flat out fun to shoot.
No photo pit for this show? So were you just in front of the first row of fans then?
Nice shots – are these guys epic live or what?
Hey Todd! Yes, I was in the first row with the fans cuz there was no photo pit. Once I was in there, I was basically stuck.
Show was totally over-the-top in every sense, probably the most fun I’ve ever had shooting.
PS: For me, KISS are one of those bands who jump back on the bucket list as soon as they’re crossed off it. Would love to photograph these guys again.
PS: I know what you mean. I enjoyed KISS so much I’m trying to shoot em again tomorrow in NJ
Just wanted to say, great photos of KISS. I was at that concert and it was great when KISS was on. Too many opening bands made it painful to sit through it. Anyway, the best KISS photos I’ve ever seen.
Thanks for the compliment Tony! Must be tough for any band opening for KISS knowing that they’ll literally be blown away haha.