question from a newbie

[norcalnut]

Hi, I am new to this site and have a question. I have just started a business with my photography. I have no formal training, but my passion is photography. I have my first big shoot on Friday. It's a group of dancers ages 3-20. They are having a Christmas program and I will be there for the dress rehearsal taking individual and group photos. I have no back drops yet, and what they have are frames for their program. The frames are black with black backing. I have a Canon Rebel Xti. Any suggestions for lighting? I haven't ever had problems with shadows and I'd hate to start now!
Thanks in advance!!

[zona5101]

Hi and Welcome.
What do you have available for lighting or are you planning to rent/purchase something and learn how to use it by Friday?

[autofocus]

If you're asking these questions you are not ready to take on this task...all I can say is good luck

[norcalnut]

Autofocus....no question is too dumb huh? Thanks

[norcalnut]

Zona5101, I only have my own camera. I have never had any problems with any other of my photos. I was just hoping for some tips. It's indoors at a YMCA.

[zona5101]

Originally Posted by norcalnut

Zona5101, I only have my own camera. I have never had any problems with any other of my photos. I was just hoping for some tips. It's indoors at a YMCA.

Ok, but what lighting gear do you have? Just the built in flash? Skip that. How is the ambient light? Any large window areas? Do you have a reflector?Can you shoot them outdoors?

Frankly I agree with autofocus's assessment, you aren't ready to charge people money or hang out your professional shingle if you have to ask random people on a website for advice but in the effort to support the community here I (and I am sure others) will attempt to assist you.

[Photologyst]

I am presuming that such a recital there would be spotlights, etc. for the stage? If it’s in the evening, obviously window light won’t help. If you do not have lighting equipment then try to photo with natural/incandescent or whatever light, adjusting your camera accordingly or rent some equipment. Do you have a large aperture lens?

Might be wise to go there beforehand and take some test shots. I would bracket every shot.

There is a lighting section on DPS.

PS (Just ignore the middle-school mob raining on your parade. Their thing is tearing others down. It makes them feel good about their own failings. Always check out the photos of those responding. That way, you will know if you are on the same page.)

[RLucas]

Originally Posted by Photologyst

PS (Just ignore the middle-school mob raining on your parade. Their thing is tearing others down. It makes them feel good about their own failings. Always check out the photos of those responding. That way, you will know if you are on the same page.)

Yeah, listen to Photologyst. When all your photos turn out badly underexposed or blurry, due to not having the right equipment or technique to start with, she can teach you how to photoshop a brand new photo. Buy CS5 and Topaz Adjust and all your photos will be pro quality.
sarcasm

Tearing people down? You mean like throwing around your "superior" intelligence and 50c words on every subject from aardvark to zanzibar when you are challenged in the least little bit? OP, I would advise you to look at her posts as well. Her thinking that most people are idiots is her way of making herself feel better about herself.

P.S. Listen to Autofocus and Zona. They know what they are talking about when it comes to shooting in these types of situations.. Sounds harsh, but it will save your ass in the long run.

[zona5101]

Originally Posted by Phonylogist

PS (Just ignore the middle-school mob raining on your parade. Their thing is tearing others down. It makes them feel good about their own failings.

Really? You hold your self out as a professional, charge people MONEY for services and come to this site for advice from random strangers. You don't think that is just a wee bit out of sequence?
I don't care, folks can do what ever they want, charge money and start a photography business or whatever - more power to them but the OP needs to come to grips with what they are asking. And this is a pretty darn good community and I know someone here will do their best to answer the question.

Interesting that you label respondents as "middle school mob" as if that doesn't directly illustrates the point you were criticizing (not being welcoming & helpful)

[Superfitz]

Originally Posted by RLucas

...You mean like throwing around your "superior" intelligence and 50c words on every subject from aardvark to zanzibar when you are challenged in the least little bit...

When was there a discussion about aardvarks? I love aardvarks! They crack me up.