Photo Tips

Chris d'Aquin is a WeSay.com contributing writer.

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You will face some challenges when shooting photos of performers on stage. Usually, photographers without credentials are not permitted close to the stage. You also have to battle drastically changing light (especially during rock concerts), and deal with slow shutter speeds due to what are often dark venues. Thanks to unique costumes, colorful lighting and flamboyant characters, shooting performances can produce some very satisfying photos. Here are some tips to help you out.

SPOT ON
Set your camera to center or spot metering. This will help your camera not get fooled by backgrounds that significantly brighter or darker than your subject. If necessary, get an exposure lock and recompose the shot before snapping the photo.

RAW DEAL
There’s often more than one type of light illuminating the stage. Shooting in RAW will give you the greatest flexibility to get the color right. One warning though! RAW, opposed to JPG images, require special editing software after you shoot. Proceed with caution.

GO LONG
The best shots of performers are often tightly cropped images so use a long lens. Show off the detail of their outfits and the emotion on their faces by zooming in with a long lens.


STEADY AS YOU GO
Since many venues are dark, a motion-stabilized lens (like the Canon IS or Nikon VR series) will give you the equivalent of two or three more stops of light to work with. If you don’t have a lens like this, then consider using a monopod or tripod.


STRENGTH IN NUMBERS
It’s easy to catch your subject in a silly expression or pose when photographing someone talking or singing. Shoot plenty of photos to help garuntee you get that great expression you're after.

DRESS REHEARSAL
Getting access to a rehearsal or even a simple sound check can be like winning the lottery! Not only will everything be done mainly the same as the actual event, but you won’t have any spectators to deal with. After all, practice makes perfect.