Event security:

This guy is your best friend, keep him happy. Arrive to the event early. This will give you time to scope out lighting during sound and lighting check. It will also afford you the opportunity to stake your claim to the optimum position before the rest of the pack of shooters arrive.

More likely then not there will be a state trooper guarding the stage area. Introduce yourself and develop a relationship with him. Your goal is to convince him that you respect his position of authority and the job he has to do. Ask what restrictions their may be. Express a genuine interest in his career. If its exceptionally warm offer to buy him a coke and ask if he'll keep an eye on your equipment while your gone. Try to build a sense of mutual trust and respect.

It'll establish a sense of credibility in the eyes of roady's who feed off the media. I've had a personal escort past event security to backstage area's reserved for special passes.