 Al Fuller |
Small theater photos I am not a pro which is to say, I have never received money for my work.My name is Al and have a general question about which lens would be best for small theater. my approach would be near the front row or just at the front of the stage.I own a contax N1 and would like to know which lens would be best for this situation.The makro 100mm 2.8 or the 85mm 1.4 Thanks
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robert G. Fately |
Al, I would suggest the faster lens (the 85 f1.4) only because I presume that you will not be able to use flash and you really want the maximum amount of light gathering power you can get in front of the camera. This way you will be able to shoot at the fastest shutter speed possible, in case motion blur becomes a problem.
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Mark Feldstein |
Greetings Al. I shoot a lot of theatrical work in various formats. But for 35mm, I use some very old Nikon F-2A's and a Nikkor 85 f 1.4. I agree with Bob. The 1.4 with a 72mm diameter is kind of like a light funnel although I'm unfamiliar with Contax lenses per se. Still, at the range you said you'd be working at, it's an excellent choice. A few other tips you might find useful: Using a monopod or some other kind of camera support will really make a difference in your image sharpness at higher magnifications, like 8x10s. Oh, and as far as flash goes, you probably know this but for others interested, you should only shoot theatrical productions with permission and never use flash unless they say it's ok. Also, a model release signed by the cast is a nice idea if you plan to use the images commercially. And, btw, if you are shooting this for the theater, they can/should schedule a photo call, just for your benefit, (and of course theirs) often at the time of dress and/or tech rehearsals, which would allow you to work on stage, use a tripod, strobe or light in a softbox, etc., and really capture the ambiance of the production. Anything else, just hollar.
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Justin G. |
Not that I could even possibly piggyback on Bob or Mark's responses but yes the 1.4 is just screaming out to be used. How nice it must be to have an 85 1.4. Canon only has a 1.8 and a 1.2 and uhh yeah the 1.2 is quite a hefty price tag!
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Al Fuller |
You guys just dont know how much you have helped me. I am spending a lot of time learning how to master this N1 camera. Your advise has given me a big boost. I only wish I could reciprocate. thanks Al
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BetterPhoto Member |
I live in a tourist town with many theaters. Most will allow you to use a flash. some won't. First, use the 1.4. Second, take a flash. and third, carry fast film in case there isn't enough light for the first rules to apply. I also agree with the monopod suggestion. As long as it telescopes, it will be a big help. One more thing. Being close to the front poses a special problem. You need to try to stay low so as to not block the paying guests. When I shoot the area shows, I try to place myself to the side, in an area where nobody will be blocked if I stand up (see Tiffany, At the Hop). BTW, this print is in my gallery. I hope I helped, at least a little. Have a great night and keep shooting.
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Mark Feldstein |
I know Al: I could sure use a couple of weeks in the Carribbean. Mark
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