Prom tomorrow....

[cphoniball]

So tomorrow is our prom, and I was planning on getting some pictures of everyone. That means single shots, couple shots, and a few big group shots (15-20 people). We're going to be taking pictures about two hours before the sun goes down, and we should be in a pretty shaded area. I plan to take a look at some prom pictures tonight and tomorrow, and I know a little bit about the general guidelines of taking portraits, but I was wondering if anyone had some more specific advice for me on what I should be doing tomorrow.

So my questions are....

1. I have a single flash and shoot through umbrella that I can use off camera, but should I even bother with us being in even shade?

2. If the answer to the previous question is yes, what would be the best way to use it? Will I need a reflector?

3. Does anyone have specific suggestions for posing the shots? All three types (single, couple, and group).

And if you have any other tips to add please feel free to do so

[RexK_Cozumel]

Umm... my question is why did you wait till now to ask these questions? Honestly at this point in time it is really too late to do much as far as gear goes. Lets just hope that there is enough light to get a good exposure and that the light is not too flat.

For the group pose be sure to use a aperture that will allow you to get everyone in focus. So this means no f 1.8. Try f 8 or 11 if you want to blur the background then use 5.6 or 6.3.

Take three shots of each pose. A full body, half body and a head shot. This will give you plenty of options when editing and printing. Be sure to take multiple shots of each in case your focus is off.

As far as using the speedlight and brollie. It might be a good idea for the singles or couples portraits but it is not going to do you a bit of good for the group photos. You will not be able to evenly light 15-20 people with a single speedlight. Unless you do a composite a la Zack Arias at the Dubai lighting seminar.

Good luck and next time ask earlier.

[cphoniball]

Thanks Rex. And yea, I didn't really expect to light the whole group with one strobe, unfortunately. Good tip about the three shots though, I'll definitely do that.

I was going to ask earlier this week, but I'm usually really hesitant to ask questions like this on forums, so I figured I would just do some research on my own. Got to tonight and I figured I might as well though (I'm in a strange mood...) I'll try to get over that next time.

[oldwolf]

Take the group shot first while you still have light. Then you can use the flash and umbrella for the couples and singles.

[captainkimo]

Your photos should not solely focus on the girls' and boys' faces. It's also about their dresses/suits. For the girls, they also want to show off their shoes, accessories, and the way their hair was done. So make sure you also shoot full body portraits.

And the usual tips... Don't forget to bring spare batteries and card/s for your shoot. Having a powder brush handy with you for those who have "shiny" faces will also help.

Cheers!

Captain Kimo