So you're in a rock band and you need to take some sweet rock photos huh? Well, look no further. I've provided some photos with descriptions of some well known bands posing for their favorite photos. Study them and decide what kind of image you are going for, then pick one to mimic. Don't stray too far from the formula because these guys know what they're doing.

Ah yes, old Pantera. This is a classic example of what I like to call the "Conflict of Emotion" style. Notice the surprised look of Rexx on the far left followed by the common showing of the beer can, stone-faced pose of Phil. To the far right we have Darrell, seemingly warning onlookers of the toughness that is Vinnie Paul, pointing him out so you can't miss him.

Bon Jovi. The boys next door. Friends to all. These guys can rock the house and have dinner with your folks all in the same night. I call this the "Great Bunch o' Guys" style. For this type make sure you act natural and try to have at least a small smirk on your face while still remaining cool. Don't be afraid to buddy-up.

Here I present the Bullet Boys. The desert setting is good. Very good. I have named this style "Inappropriate Clothing for Environment" or just I.C.E. style. This can make you look tough but can also make you look silly, so take heed.

The Scorpions. Germany's tribute to the Village People's leather clad motorcycle maniac. If there's some dirty work that needs to be done, these guys will do it.....cheap. I don't blame you if this is your favorite photo style. I call it "Macho Macho Man" style.

Metal Thrash Masters Slayer and Metallica. This photo style is very simple and doesn't need a lot of explanation. The plain clothes look suggests the music comes before the image and that even the photo shoot may have interfered with the creative process. With instruments present I call this style "We Were Just Jamming" and sans instruments "We Were Just Writing Some New Shit".

Here is a photo shoot done to promote Motley Crue's album Dr. Feelgood. Can you see the straight jackets? It's probably meant to suggest that the guys are insane and that you're probably better off staying away from them. They are allowed to play concerts however, and that's where they really kick ass. Sound like the image you're looking for? Go for the "Restraints Can't Keep Us From Rocking" style.

Classic GNR.....(sigh). Where are you guys?! These guys could really pass off the L.A. look without going too far into the realm of the Poisons and the RATTs. Besides just being cool guys, 3 constants remain : Shades, cigarettes, and tattoos. Not surprisingly this style is called the "Smokes, Tats n' Shades" method.

This is Krokus. I call their style "Wild and Fruity Animals". It's not one of my personal favorites but everyone has their own opinion.

Remember Dokken? Of course you do. This is an excellent way to show the world you ain't playin'. A little East meets West is seen here with "American Kung Fu Business Suit" style. Adding smoke is always a plus.