It's a little and a lot of both, it depends on the band, how well you know them, etc.

Sometimes the band's energy, interplay and demeaner will be enough. Sometimes they come in with ideas of their own.

In those cases, if possible, go with those. At least for starters.

There are also posing guides out there that might be useful. Do a web search for a few and see if one or two is in your price range.

Also look at what bands on MySpace have for promo pics. Which ones do you like? Can they be modified to suit the band you're shooting. Just don't do a straight rip-off of someone's promo work. Change it up to suit your taste and those of the band. MySpace is a great assett if you use it right.

The most important thing is to be open to what the band suggests, unless it is just plain hideous!

Jamie "Shooter" Taylor
Jamie Taylor
Photojournalist Extraordinaire
"Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment." -- Buddha
http://www.myspace.com/tailwindimaging
http://tradewindimaging.photorefl

This can be tough!

Some people have the natural ability to arrange people in a creative and visually appealing way within a space - instantly. I am not one of those people!

Find a space with character and arrange people to fit the space. If you are working with an empty or infinite space... download some photos beforehand that you like and utilize elements from those ;)