Photographing a large dance group

johnsy

johnsy

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I have been asked by a friend to take some images of a modern street type dance group she belongs too for their website. Having never done anything like this before, I'm after a few tips.

I will have on me a Nikon D5000 with 18-55mm kit lens, YN465 Flash. (really want to replace the lens but can't afford it) :(

They normally take photos themselves so are not after anything special, but as its a big performance (20-30 dancers) they will all be taking part so need someone else to shoot for them.
 
Not easy. I'd suggest you get up high, ladders or something. That's a real stageful. Use the widest or get as far back as necessary.
 
Where are the pictures being taken? In a studio? Street? Theatre? Is it a posed group or action shots of the dance they want?
 
Forgot to say, it will be in a night club so quite dark. I guess it will be a mixture of dancing, action and posed shots.
 
Not easy! I'd suggest NOT using the flash or you'll kill the atmosphere. Will they be on a lit stage? Best to go and do a recce before hand.
 
Not sure if they will be using a lit stage or not, if lit I wont use the flash. I'm hoping they will be having a dress rehearsal to have a practice.

Thanks for the comments :)
 
Sorry it's a bit vague without actually seeing the problem myself. Look forward to the pics! Good luck.
 
From my (limited) experience

Posed shots:
- get up high
- take time to pose the group - tall / short members etc
- Put them on levels (sitting / kneeling / crouching / standing)
- Do some casual and some posed, so ask them to chat / hug (if they are comfortable with that)
- watch the background and pick somewhere uncluttered

Above all, take your time and don't stress.

If you go to a rehersal, then do a few shots on different settings so you can see the difference on the computer. If you are able, then use RAW.
 
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