event strategy

[hiro]

I have the opportunity to shoot an upcoming charity event. Its scheduled between

8:00 a.m and 12:00noon in Santa Monica's third street promenade(in the shade of

four-five story buildings) The included highlights are, the beginning of the 5k

walk, opening ceremony(guest speakers), end of walk, and closing ceremony(guest

speakers).

 

I have planned to take the 17-55 and 70-200vr with a sb-600. Also have a 85 1.8,

12-24, and a 35f/2 but don't plan on taking them.

 

I've never shot a planned event like this and am looking for tips. I won't have

but 30 minutes or so to scout out the area, so its pretty much a shoot from the hip.

 

Also, the coordinator was looking for a volunteer(not paid) to shoot the event,

when I asked if the job paid, she said she could pay but asked how asked much.

She knows I am an just an enthusiasic amateur. Would also like comments on this

arrangement.

 

Thanks ahead.

[BrianS1664879711]

Bring plenty of film.

 

Bring plenty of power for your flash.

 

Bring a spare body.

 

Get the deal in writing before you start.

 

Make sure that you are up to the task.

 

Scout the area more than 30 minutes beforehand.

 

Know the schedule and location of events.

 

Know the people involved - planners/organizers, coordinators, guest speakers; Make sure they know you.

[dan_brown4]

I'd say shoot it for free, with no commitment to produce quality results, until you feel sure

you can get the shots needed. Events are way easier with two bodies, with the two zooms

you suggest. I'd bring the 12-24 because a very wide perspective can be useful at

crowded events. Assuming you are shooting digital, bring a spare camera battery and a

few extra GB of CF cards, but try to carry a light load so you can move about freely. Have

fun, and remember, if you photo are interesting, you're not close enough, so get into the

action.

[hugh_davis]

Brian's advice is good, although if you've got a 17-55 it probably means carry a couple extra memory cards instead of film. I've shot several events of this sort and have found that having two bodies, one with a wide to normal lens (even a good P&S, sometimes) and another with something in the longer range helps with grabbing shots where things are rapidly changing--shots can get away while you're changing lenses. With 2.8 glass you may not need flash much except for fill, but extra batteries (camera, flash, laptop, whatever uses 'em) are always good to have. Re payment, check with a couple pro friends, see what they say. You can work something out...

 

Other than that try to get into the spirit of things and go with it. Good Luck!

[d._williams]

hey im close to santa monica.. i can give you a hand (aka) volunteer for the fun of it.. shoot me an email and we can talk.. see my website at www.dwilliamsphotos.com

[klix]

Used to live in Santa Monica in my younger days...

 

If you've got access and can get reasonably close to speakers, then the 17-55mm will be your primary lens. You should bring along the 12-24mm for **effects.**

[ShunCheung]

If you use a 17-55, since it is a DX lens, the chance is that you are shooting digital. In that case bringing plenty of film might not be very helpful. :-)

[musubi1000]

I third the 12-24! it is simply a must have item in your bag. You will have the entire gamut of focal lengths needed to cover a job like that.

[Peter_in_PA]

Brng at least two bodies... and shoot jpegs so you have GOBS of room for images...