One small step

[jzq]

Hello all,

 

I have been trying to hone my technique for shooting in low-light, club-like

situations for a <i>while</i>. I've shot at two goth clubs, several parties,

and I took advantage of my school's prom to try again. I think this is the

first half decent shot I've gotten, but I might be biased. What do you all

think? Any thoughts on how I could improve in this arena?

 

FYI -- I've been shooting with a 20D, 800 ISO, 17-55mm lens, f/2.8. Oh, and a

580EX. I just got a 50mm f/1.4, so I'll be trying that soon too.<div></div>

[felixg]

I work a lot in low light, and my recommendation would be to ditch the zoom

lens (for this purpose - it's fine in good light) and go to your 50mm f/1.4

exclusively.</p>

<p>Comment on the pic you showed: you're doing well, if that was taken with the set-up you describe ... I'm impressed!</p>

<p>I use the following for low light work:</p>

<ul>

<li>85mm f/1.4</li>

<li>50mm f/0.95</li>

<li>50mm f/1.2</li>

<li>50mm f/1.4</li>

<li>30mm f/1.4</li>

<li>24mm f/2</li>

<li>14mm f/2.8</li>

</ul>

<p>(The last one only on digital; the f/0.95 is on an ancient CRF camera)</p>

<p>I also work at ISO 1600 or 3200, depending on the lens, then manage the noise in RAW conversion (digital) or grain in processing/printing (film).</p>

<p>Also practice your hand holding at slow speeds. The slower you can hand hold, the wider your opportunities.</p>

<p>Finally: once you have the elbow room to allow it, start bracketting your shots - you could get more etail in those dark areas.