Seeking tips on technique/equipment to bring

[lakeith79]

Hello All,

I bought my DSLR with one purpose in mind, taking pictures of my first kiddo. As delivery day approches, I wanted to ask what types of things should I have on hand with me to get some good pictures after delivery.

I've read thru the articles on the main site and gotten some great ideas, but wanted to reach out to anyone who has experience. I dont have much in the way of equipment to bring: D40, kit lens (18-55m), 55-200 f4-5.6, and a SB600 flash.

The hospital has a contract with Bella Photography to do an in-hospital shoot as well, but I want to try my own hand... and have a plan B should none of mine come out well.

With out asking for a road map - why types of shots/settings should I have as a guidline?

Thanks in advance,

Lakeith

[OsmosisStudios]

Bring the flash but first learn how to BOUNCE it. That'll likely be your best bet.

If you can spring the funds, an AF-S 35mm f/1.8D would be great, but otherwise you'll wanna shoot around 35mm (thereabouts: frame for the situation) and around f/5.6. If there's a window, use it to your advantage!

[lakeith79]

Ive been working with the flash trying to learn how to bounce it. The cieling bounces are pretty easy to figure out, but I get a little confused with wall bounces the side lighting they seem to give. I think I should get a diffuser.

I doubt I can spring for an 35mm af-s. Maybe I'll try to rent one? If Im shooting at f/5.6 then my kit lens should be "ok" no? I'll be honest and say Im not sure of all the advantages of prime lenses, espically when I'd be shooting at a f-stop that my current lenses can achieve.