14 years ago Phil & Friends SOB 4/9/07

While not the greatest show from P&F, this one was one of my favorites. First off the having to find Reddy Kilowatt in a Where's Waldo  type graphic in order to buy tickets was a hoot. Secondly, it was by far the smallest venue I had ever seen Phil Lesh in and, lastly, it was the first time that I had the pleasure of photographing Mr. Lesh. I was only 4 months into my career of being a concert photographer and since I was not at all known yet, getting credentials for shows was almost impossible. I had just rented a lens to try out and I decided that I would attempt to you use my best Jedi mind trickery (This is not the camera you are looking for) and smuggle my gear into the venue. I was also aware that I had to be careful taking photos so I wasn't escorted out of the venue. Luckily for me, my friend Jayne marched in and positioned us directly in front of Phil. It was a low stage with no pit in front so if I wanted to, I could have operated Phil's pedals without even reaching. That's close! And by being so close, I didn't have to worry about security seeing me, I was blocked by the crowd. Basically the only way I could be caught would have been if Phil looked at me, saw the camera and alerted security. He didn't and for that I am grateful. Anyway, here are some of the photos I took that night of Phil and because of them, I was able to connect to his PR people and be credentialed in the future. 

I was a special night for me and will always be so.