The 12-12-12 benefit show for Hurricane Sandy was one of the coolest events I’ve ever experienced. I’ve photographed most of the bands before, but to see The Rolling Stones, The Who, Paul McCartney, Bon Jovi, Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel, and others all in one night was simply epic.
I even got to bring one of my famous photo students into the pit.
The day started like any other big festival show. As Bon Jovi’s tour photographer, I made sure to set up a quick group shot after sound check showing the historical concert’s logo.
(Nikon D3, 24-70mm lens, ISO 2500, 1/160, f/4)
But backstage, Jon Bon Jovi ran into his old friend Paul McCartney (JBJ calls him “Beatle Paul”). After a quick exchange, Jon gave him a smooch on the cheek.
(Nikon D3, 24-70mm lens, ISO 2500, 1/160, f/4)
On stage, Bruce Springsteen joined the band for “Who Says You Can’t Go Home.”
(Nikon D4, 70-200mm lens, ISO 5000, 1/320, f/4)
In the dressing room, New Jersey governor Chris Christie told Jon a funny story that involved some cheek pinching.
(Nikon D3, 24-70mm lens, ISO 2500, 1/160, f/4)
When the Rolling Stones took the stage, Jon wanted to see them perform. I’ve been giving him photo lessons so when we found ourselves next to the photo pit in front of the stage, I handed him my camera and said, “Want to shoot?” He immediately took me up on the offer.
(Nikon D3, 24-70mm lens, ISO 2500, 1/60, f/2.8)
While he enjoyed shooting the Stones and The Who, Jon kept putting the camera down to cheer like all the other fans.
Here are two of his images.
(Nikon D4, 70-200mm lens, ISO 5000, 1/320, f/4)
Jon gave me a message to pass along to his fans.
“Photography is like golf, or so they say. One good shot and you’re in. David Bergman taught me how to capture the shot. The rest is luck and a good subject. See you on the road.”
—Jon Bon Jovi
(Nikon D4, 70-200mm lens, ISO 5000, 1/320, f/4)
Bon Jovi is posting some of my images on their Facebook page, with more to come soon.