Parties by artificial light

[Phil Wood]

I have a canon 30D and 580 speedlight and am being asked to photograph parties at night inside. I am finding it impossible to get good photographs, other than very close under 2 metres or so, has anyone any tips regarding settings accessories etc. which may improve my results.I am trying to work with the flashing lights etc. behind the camera and this helps a little. Any ideas Thanks Phil

 

[Steep]

Show us an example of an image you're not happy with m8, get a better idea of how to help that way.

 

[Phil Wood]

I need to know how I find the URL of the picture. It is in a file called Graham in my pictures HELP!!!! (http://????) Sorry I am not up to speed yet on my computer skills.

 

[Steep]

You need to upload it first. since you signed up to the forums you have some gallery space that you can save your picture to.

It's here, http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/gallery/showgallery.php?cat=500&ppuser=2682 in the right hand corner you should see "Upload Photos" click on that and follow the instructions. Make sure your image fits the guidelines though, 160kb max size and 800x800 pixels at most.

 

[Phil Wood]

[/IMG]
I have given this extra light ( F3 in Photoshop CS2)

 

[Steep]

At first glance it's too busy in the background and they are badly posed (not sure if you have any control over that) and the lighting is a bit harse although the exposure seems spot on as regards the white shirt. I'd get hold of a Stoffen diffuser for your flash and try that, it will soften and spread the light more evenly.

Keep your lens wide open to try and blur the background as much as poss (or blur it in PS later)