Taking pics at a christening - any advice?

Cris_L

Cris_L

Take That's Biggest Fan
Messages
1,923
Name
Cris
Edit My Images
Yes
I'm going to a family christening in a couple of weeks and will obviously be taking my camera. Is there anything i can do to make the pictures look more "pro" than like snaps, I'm kinda seeing it as a decent learning opportunity so want to make the most of it.

i've got a 500d with an 18 - 55 and a 55 - 250 (on the way), someone has also given me a reflector because they didnt need it any more so if thats useful i have that.

I don't have a flash apart from the built in one but if it would be worth getting one i don't mind if it'l make a difference if anyone can recommend a reasonable budget one.

cheers
 
Watch out for the Font if you're walking backwards :lol:

seriously though a hotshoe flash with a swivel head and diffuser would be advantageous, but not necessarily needed if you can control the built in flash power in camera. :)

I would use the 18-55 personally, you might need the "wide" end for group shots

:)
 
If you're planning on shooting the ceremony check first with the minister/vicar/priest. They may not allow flash photography during the service.
 
paul_g said:
If you're planning on shooting the ceremony check first with the minister/vicar/priest. They may not allow flash photography during the service.
Click to expand...

good point, I forgot that one :thumbs:
 
paul_g said:
If you're planning on shooting the ceremony check first with the minister/vicar/priest. They may not allow flash photography during the service.
Click to expand...

:thumbs: the last one I did was no flash apart for a few posed ones after with the vicar and the family. Did lots outside after.
Think of it like a weeding IE you got low light, keep out of the way, fast ISO and Fast lens.
I used both the 70-200 IS L 2.8 and a 17-55 IS 2.8 for my shots and was up at 400 800 and 1000 ISO as the light was changing but this was in Jan and 3 to 4 pm.
If you can go to the church before and take a few shot see what your getting. can also use the shots if your going to make a slide show.
On the day take some of the people there as well as just the baby and other things like flowers and stuff....
 
If flash isn't allowed be prepared for some very low light. Last christening I shot was in june and every shot in the church was at iso3200 and f2.8 and the shutter speeds were still worryingly low. i think I need to change to Nikon :lol:
 
paul_g said:
If flash isn't allowed be prepared for some very low light. Last christening I shot was in june and every shot in the church was at iso3200 and f2.8 and the shutter speeds were still worryingly low. i think I need to change to Nikon :lol:
Click to expand...

In June? see my post above...
 
Cris_L said:
Thanks guys, as you can prob tell I'm a beginner, if flash isnt allowed how should I prepare for the low light?
Click to expand...

take some test shots as you increase the ASA/ISO, lower the shutter speed to a reasonable level as to not cause blur from camera shake, open up the aperture (lower F/ number)

:)
 
Chaz Photos said:
In June? see my post above...
Click to expand...

but you shot between 400 and 1000 iso so you obviously had loads of light.

I was in a black hole :lol:

Cris_L as said you'll have to push the iso as high as you can, shoot as wide open as possible and if the shutter speeds still low find something to lean or wedge yourself against.
A bit of noise in the image can be sorted afterwards, a blurred shot goes in the bin so push the iso up and if all else fails convert it to black and white. Grain looks good on black and white images ;)
 
paul_g said:
If you're planning on shooting the ceremony check first with the minister/vicar/priest. They may not allow flash photography during the service.
Click to expand...

its wise to ask..our vicar is photographically minded and can give tips on positioning

i did one on a minox...with slide film...its quiet and unobtrusive
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top