I got my start in dive bars where no one cared if I blinded the whole crowd with my flash—as long as the drinks were cold and the band was loud. I barely knew what I was doing, but those sweaty, chaotic nights taught me everything. From beer-soaked lenses to stolen gear and spontaneous portraits, I found my voice behind the camera. Here are 5 lessons I learned in those sticky-floored spaces that still shape every gig I shoot.