Musicians and photographers share a mutually beneficial relationship. Photographers provide the imagery that helps musicians build their brand, while musicians can offer exposure for a photographer’s work. Both are artists, and both deserve respect and fair treatment. However, disputes sometimes arise—particularly over the placement of photo credits.
As a designer in the digital and print space, I’ve been working with countless photographers of a variety of skill levels over the last 25+ years. Professional photographers tend to charge for their services and often clearly define terms for usage through contracts. Some generously allow their work to be used for free in exchange for credit, which musicians deeply appreciate. Crediting photographers is important, but mistakes happen. In the fast-paced world of music promotion, credits can occasionally be overlooked—not out of disrespect, but due to oversight.
When this occurs, the best approach is a direct and professional resolution. A polite email, phone call, or message is usually enough to fix the issue. Sadly, some photographers opt for public call-outs on social media, and while they may refrain from naming names, their hints are can be about as subtle as a neon sign. Either way this is escalating what is often a simple mistake into an unnecessary controversy.
Public shaming can have significant consequences for all parties involved. Firstly, musicians can be subjected to an unfair backlash. While apologising and correcting the issue might have been initially easy, facing an onslaught of public criticism is distressing and demoralising. Secondly, such incidents create a climate of fear, discouraging other musicians from hiring photographers in the first place. If the risk of public embarrassment over things out of their control is too high, they may opt for alternative solutions—stock images, self-taken photos, or label-provided material—reducing opportunities for many independent professional photographers altogether.
No musician or designer deliberately omits a credit. There is no advantage in doing so. More often than not, missing credits result from miscommunication, third-party involvement, or simply human error. Press outlets, blogs, and social media accounts frequently repurpose images without attribution, making it difficult to track every instance where an image is used or sourced from.
Photographers absolutely deserve recognition, and musicians should do their best to ensure proper crediting. However, a culture of understanding and professionalism is key. Contracts help establish clear expectations, and when mistakes happen, direct and interpersonal resolutions should be the first course of action. In my opinion, public complaints should be reserved for repeated or deliberate violations—as a last resort—especially in the sensitive space of arts and music.
Musicians and photographers both face challenges in an industry where creative work is often undervalued. Instead of creating unnecessary conflict, both sides should support each other. A reasonable approach benefits everyone: musicians receive high-quality images, photographers get their due recognition, and both continue to thrive in their respective fields.
Let’s prioritise professionalism, communication, and mutual respect. The goal should always be to resolve issues constructively, not to create hostility over honest mistakes.
— Nadja von Massow
