flash vs stand light?

[doulahallie]

So, Im new to this world of photography, but learning what I like and don't like. Harsh flash is a don't for me. When I look at photos of photogs I admire (wedding shots primarily) Ive been stumped on how to get the lit look they have, in a clearly dark room, then I realised when looking closer, that a lot of these weddings also seem to have videographers, with light stands to better light their scene. I also watched a photog use the video guys light for some sunset shots as the light went away.

So my question is, for weddings with out videographers, do you ever/would you ever bring a light stand to get better shots of say a crazy dark room when the guests are really dancing, or would that be an annoying distraction for guests. Or just down right tacky. The higher end weddings Ive been at (2nd shooting) have been better lit, the lower budget rooms, very poorly lit, low ceilings, flouresent light etc.

Thanks for any input insight.

[RichardTaylor]

I am not a wedding photographer, however have you seen this video - from about 35 minutes on. It may give you an idea (I do own the book he published).

Viddler.com - Captured By The Light Web-Cast 3-3-10 - Uploaded by ziser

[zona5101]

check out Neill... both video light and most excellent bounce flash work...
http://neilvn.com/tangents/2011/09/2...h-video-light/

[doulahallie]

Thanks guys- also watching some old wedding shows, seeing a lot of flash brackets on cameras, seems like I haven't seen this as much since Ive entered into this world, are they still be used regularly? Ive been fiddling with my flash in command mode, holding it and aiming/and or bouncing it where I want as I practice different things. Does the bracket essentially allow more of this oiption while keeping two hands on camera? (unlike what Im doing lol)

[zona5101]

Originally Posted by doulahallie

Thanks guys- also watching some old wedding shows, seeing a lot of flash brackets on cameras, seems like I haven't seen this as much since Ive entered into this world, are they still be used regularly? Ive been fiddling with my flash in command mode, holding it and aiming/and or bouncing it where I want as I practice different things. Does the bracket essentially allow more of this oiption while keeping two hands on camera? (unlike what Im doing lol)

You don't see brackets all that often anymore I think because more people are bouncing more and bouncing eliminates the big reasons for putting a flash on a bracket...removing red eye and pushing the shadows down and away.
That said I have a bracket and use it once in awhile...mainly when it's run and gun and I don't have the time (or unconscious skills) to flip my flash around in multiple directions.