What in the World No phones on the dance floor! Why artists don’t want you filming at gigs
Sep 29, 2025
Adam Chowdhury, a producer and reporter who dives into music culture trends, shares insights on the no-phone policies popping up at concerts worldwide. He discusses how artists like Sabrina Carpenter and Billie Eilish advocate for live experiences over screens. DJs from Berlin talk about their strict camera bans, while others argue that fan filming boosts their visibility. Adam highlights a variety of global venues supporting or opposing these rules, and he suggests a balanced approach to capturing memories without losing the moment.
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Phones Break The Dancefloor Vibe
- DJs and venues push no-phones to protect atmosphere and encourage people to look up and enjoy the moment.
- Organisers say phones dilute the vibe and obstruct other attendees' view and experience.
Berlin's No-Phone Norm Goes Global
- Berlin norms spread globally: over 90% of Berlin venues reported a no-phones-on-dancefloor code.
- This creates a reproducible club culture where visitors worldwide can expect phone-free experiences.
Berlin Clubs Stickers Protect Privacy
- Renate and ELSE in Berlin require guests to cover phone cameras with stickers and enforce a zero tolerance policy.
- The clubs argue this protects freedom, private moments, and allows guests to fully lose themselves in the music.