t_tran4

I found it easier to read from books rather than websites

(where I can always go back to the chapters related to

the specific lighting to use for certain situations). I liked

"speedliter's handbook" by Syl Arena.

In my opinion, I don't think it's wise to try to shoot

indoors or outdoors at a wedding without even a flash. I

would think you're going to get unpleasant shadows on

your subject's face without any fill lighting. When

someone is paying you money to make sure you capture

that split second moment, you shouldn't be depending

on ambient lighting to make it successful.

Also, know how to adjust your

flash manually and quickly...

just in case ettl doesn't do it

for you.

Due to 7d's cropped sensor, you

might want to look at tamron 17-

50. You can probably get it used

for $300. Also, rather than

renting Canon's 24-70 mkII, you

might consider the mkI, Canon ef-

s 17-55 IS, or tamron's 24-70

which also has image

stabilization.. And cost a lot

less to rent. All the mentioned

above are F2.8.

Great photos. I agree with the others that the reception

shots can improve. Maybe increase the ISO and

bounce off the ceiling. Try to balance the lighting of the

subjects with the background. The subjects are lit up a

tad too much compared to the dark background.

I really like the bright soft radiant style of your other

shots though. I personal don't think you have a "general

over exposure" problem as Bob mentioned. I took a look at his wedding portfolios and in my opinion, his photos can use a bit more exposure. Not to be offending, but that's just my preference.

I like to also have 70-200 for the situations

where I can stay back to give the bride and groom some

space... Like during the ceremony.

Hi, is there much the st-e3 can do that the 600ex cannot

do? I was looking to purchase the st-e3 transmitter for

$300, but was thinking that for $200 more I should get

the flash instead. I believe the 600ex can do most of

what the transmitter can do... unless I'm mistaken.

My rational is that for paying 40% more, I can get more

than 40% more of functionality value from the 600ex.

Does anyone use the st-e3 that can provide additional

insight? Thanks.

Thanks for the various responses. I guess being able to

quickly adjust one's setup based on the lighting

conditions is key. It was very helpful and gives me

various ideas of how to better handle it. I will not use the

monopod and hold it at arms length. I'll take a look at

the brackets too.

@William, I have a canon 6D with 24-70 2.8L, 24-105

4.0L, 70-200 2.8L,17-40 4L, Sigma 30mm & 50mm 1.4.

It will be a 16 yr old's party sweet 16.

I'll probably start with the 24-70 and see how that works

out.

Thanks again!

Hi, I'll be photographing a bday party, which will be my

first event. The party will be held in a barn, therefore high

ceilings so I can't bounce flash. I'm going to assume

poor lighting also. I have two 600ex flashes.

Option 1: hook up a diffused flash to my monopod,

where the flash will be connected via TTL cord. I'd

basically hold the monopod flash at arm lengths to my

side while I shoot with my other hand. Was wondering if

that seems like a reasonable solution rather than a

straight on direct flash.

Option 2: mount a flash to tripod, and also mount 2nd

flash to my camera to use wireless. This setup might be

a bit more difficult to maneuver around.

What type of setup do you guys use given these

conditions?

Thanks!