What’s Your Preference?

Phil H · #1 (**permalink**) 07-11-2009, 08:17 PM

Hi,
I am brand new to the site and this Forum and in need of quick education & learning! I will be shooting my daughter's dance recital in a couple weeks in low/theatrical lighting, fast action. What suggestions do you have to be able to capture this superbly?

waffles · #2 (**permalink**) 07-11-2009, 08:35 PM

Find that magical balence between fast enough to freeze some action and slow enough to let in enough light. Don't be afraid to edit the pictures later if they come out too dark. Get as unobstricted (and unobstructive) view as possible. Check before hand to see what gear you're allowed to bring in. For example, a lot of places won't let you bring a tripod because they are easy for other people to trip over.

WooD · #3 (**permalink**) 07-11-2009, 08:43 PM

Can you use flash?

Phil H · #4 (**permalink**) 07-11-2009, 08:50 PM

The night of the show, no flash allowed.... however, 2 dress rehearsals in the preceding days, that will have "some" lighting, but not totally darkened down as for the show.

waffles · #5 (**permalink**) 07-11-2009, 08:52 PM

That's probably a good move. As much as I'd like to have a flash it's not the safest thing int he world for people to be up there dancing and having those lights go off in their eyes.

mad editor · #6 (**permalink**) 07-11-2009, 09:50 PM

Yes, I work for an arts organization and when we are shooting dress rehearsals for publicity purposes - no flash. It's dangerous and distracting.

Phil H · #7 (**permalink**) 07-12-2009, 12:21 AM

ok, but I'm interested in more specifics, like what kind of settings you would use? what type of lens, etc. Thank you for your help!

Digidave · #8 (**permalink**) 07-12-2009, 12:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Phil H

ok, but I'm interested in more specifics, like what kind of settings you would use? what type of lens, etc. Thank you for your help!

You don't give us any idea of what equipment you currently have. This is what's needed for low light fast action photography.

1) Fast lens. f/2.8, f/1.8, or f/1.4, okay, better, best
2) Flash. When you can.
3) Higher ISO. A better/more expensive camera that can handle the higher ISO settings is what is really needed.

If you don't have a fast lens, use a flash. If you can't use a flash, raise your ISO.

In your case, it appears that raising your ISO is the only option. Be prepared for graininess.

Phil H · #9 (**permalink**) 07-12-2009, 01:09 AM

thank you. Equipment is a Canon 50D, but I am contemplating renting a lens (as I'm not fully outfitted yet) that would get down to f2.8. For show nite, I'm probably gonna be about 100 feet from the stage - could you recommend best lens for that distance?