The relaxed, easy atmosphere of a party or social gathering should lend itself well to the photographer. Most participants will be enjoying themselves and will be in a good mood with a ready smile. To elevate the party snap to something more interesting take yourself out of the party for a while and be an objective observer. You will then be able to catch that unposed candid shot as well as the general festivity. Here are ten tips for getting better party pictures.
* To get everyone in the frame at the party you need to get above the action. Find a high vantage point. If you have a zoom function set it to wide to capture the revellers. A general view of everyone having a good time gives that sense of occasion.
* As an outsider looking in you are ideally positioned for candid shots. Often the unposed photograph catching someone off guard can be very interesting! Having said that, don’t deliberately try to cause embarrassment!
* Alternatively, engage with people. Get the crowd used to having you and your camera around. They will be more cooperative and willing to be photographed. There are always extraverts who are only too pleased to be photographed and will play up to the camera. However, there will be the more reserved types who regard the camera as intrusive. So respect their wishes.
* Once you have a group’s cooperation, they will start to relax more and enjoy the experience. You can now try varying your viewpoint and framing. Try some close-ups. If you have a zoom lens or function, us it.
* Always be on the lookout for an unusual shot. Sometimes a subject other than people can be interesting. A close-up of glasses of different shapes with various colored drinks, for example.
* Set the zoom to wide for general views, but don’t be afraid to zoom in close.
* For the more technically minded, set to continuous mode. This will help with moving subjects. People will be laughing and talking but a quick burst of pictures should capture at least one with the right expression.
* If the event takes place during day time and there is sufficient natural light, set the ISO to a high value and try photographing without the flash or with just a little fill in. Even if the room is lit with electric lighting there may well be sufficient ambient light to try a this. With a high ISO and perhaps a slower shutter speed you should be able to record the background detail of the room as well as your subject.
* If you do use flash, bounce it off the ceiling. This will reduce the harshness of the flash and any washed out foreground.
* Finally, your photographic equipment is valuable. Don’t leave it unattended and keep it away from spilt drinks. When not in use, keep it safely away in your camera case.
Thursday 10 December 2009
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