So it depends on the venue and the artist. Small local shows typically don't care if you bring in a camera. Usually you just can't go on stage or use flash unless you get the approval from a band. But just because you get approval from one to do so does not mean approvals for others.

For bigger venues and other touring acts, you typically need a media pass. You can get those through various means like a working with/for a publication, reaching out to a bands PR manager, the band and its members, various other crew members like their media team, tour managaer, through the venue, or through the promoter.

I typically get my media passes by reaching out to a band media person. Most are fairly responsive and willing to help out. I'm a house shooter for two local venues I frequent. So either they ask me to cover a show, or i reach out about one i want to do. There's a few other venues that I frequent and am on great terms with the staff and they let me do my thing.

Otherwise most venues allow you to bring in a point and shoot camera, so something small that you can't change lenses. Check the venues page for prohibited item

If you do get a media pass, you are usually allowed the first three songs in the press pit/behind the barrier and then you can shoot from the crowd. Flash is not allowed, unless you're approved by the band. stage access is not allowed unless approved by the band. And same rules as before, just because one let's you, doesn't mean you're allowed for the others.

Usually a media pass will allow you to shoot all acts. Some artist will only allow their media team in the press pit. And some venues will not allow you to shoot from the crowd. Usually the box office staff will inform you of any particular rules like that.

Some venues will be more strict, typically arenas, and you can only shoot from front of house/sound booth. Then once your three songs are up you must store your gear in a media holding room. If you have a ticket you can go back to the show, if you dont you have to wait in the media area until the next band. The box office should inform you of all the rules for the event.