Would Like Some Advice

[paldusty]

OK. So, I have another job (Not for pay) that is for this Friday night. A while back I sent an email to all I know that have pets and asked them if they would like a free portrait of themselves with their pets or alone or whatever. I want to build a portfolio and I can't charge at first, which is fine (for now). OK, I have had a few takers and so far, so good. Flickr link Jeff_Amy and Max 112809 - a set on Flickr I have studied and studied and studied this web site and many others learning. I have practiced till I am blue in the face and then practiced some more. So now I get a call from a lady who would like to take advantage of my offer, GREAT! Only this is a little different. She would like me to take pictures at her company Christmas party this Friday evening at a hall. All of this is great except for this. Right now all I have are two point and shoots and a 35mm film camera. I don't have money for what I want so that is that.

Do you think that I should put the P&S on 2nd curtain and slow mode and go for art type stuff with trails? Should I put some opaque tape on the pop up flash? Any help would be appreciated. I used to have a 20D with great L series glass, but lost the job and had to sell and am now building back up, so please don't just slam me for having what I have. Thanks in advance.

[Jim Bryant]

First off, you should have been truthful upfront. I realize you had to sell the camera for whatever reasons, but you're putting your reputation on the line, which is very valuable when trying to start out. You might want to get back with this lady and explain your circumstances and what equipment you'll be using. If she's unhappy with the pictures, the word will get out. Remember the people invited to the company party has friends as well and word spreads quickly.

[paldusty]

Maybe I should have explained further. She knows exactly what equipment I have and she is totally OK with that. They realize that I am starting out out (again) and that her expectations are not those of an aficionado. She wants some OK pics and to have fun. So, can you help me advice?

[Mike367]

I have only recently acquired a good DSLR, which I'm learning how to use, but for almost 10 yrs. have been using a Nikon Coolpix 950, basically a point and shoot, and have pleased many non-discriminating people like you describe. (OK, friends and family..) One thing I did have was an external flash, which makes a world of difference. Borrow or rent one if you can. Take way too many photos and only show the ones that suck the least.

From what I have read, blocking the flash tube as you describe will cause it to overheat and burn out in short order. Perhaps you can use tin foil to bounce it.

[paldusty]

Thanks man. Didn't know about the burn out thing. Glad you mentioned that. I will rent one. That is good advice. Thanks again and I'll let all know how it went...

[paldusty]

I was thinking of using slow syncro for a lot of "Action" shots because the P&S is OK at that and I think sinse it is a party they might like em that way. I talked to the client and she is thrilled that I will shoot the thing for her.

[Sime]

Maybe balance 2nd curtain with some regular, standard portraits - give her a mix... If every shot has lines in (from the 2nd curtain flash setting) your client may get bored :-) ...Mix it up, do your best

[paldusty]

Thanks. That sounds like a plan. Will let all know how it goes. Am practicing at home with a variety of techniques and am getting nervous, but that is just me. I know that they don't expect the end all be all, but still I want to exceed their expectations too. I'm starting to get my settings all discombobulated together. I'm just going to have fun with it and make sure I have plenty of batteries.