AboutDave Nyce Expertise I have used SLR cameras for 30 years and have taught classes on photography at work for my co-workers. I had a darkroom for 20 years, but now am using mostly digital cameras. I can answer questions on equipment and techniques for photography, but am not an expert on specific model numbers of cameras or accessories.
Expert: Dave Nyce Date: 9/23/2005 Subject: Low light, concert photos...
Question Hello,
This is kind of an urgent email as I just got confirmation that I have the oppourtunity to photograph a large concert just outside of where I live. Im still a beginer at photography but enjoy it very much so and have a big callege ahead of me. I really want to make these photos turn out great! Ive photographed concerts before but there has also been a good amount of light either because it was outdoors or a well lit venue. Im not sure what to expect here but just in case I need advice on how to capture the best low light photos without using a flash. I cannot use a flash because a DVD is being filmed at the same time also.
Im using a Minolta X-700. Its an older camera but does wonders for everything Ive worked on in the past. I have several lenses to choose from with some converters also. I just need advice as far as film, apt., Shutter speed etc. Any advice at all will help! Thanks!
Myke
Answer Of course, for the lowest light capability, the aperture should be set to as low a number as it can be for your lens. I like to use a Minolta f 1.2 lens for low light. You need to be at least down to f 1.4. If your lens can't open that far, then you do not have very much low light capability.
You should use 800 or faster film speed for the lowest light capability. (But resolution may suffer if you use faster than 400). As you may know, a wide aperture reduces your depth of field, so compose and focus your shots carefully. Use automatic shutter speed if your camera has it, because it's difficult to see the settings in low light.
Before it gets too dark, estimate the distances to the likely places for a shot. Look at your focus ring in the light so you know how to adjust it when there is not much light to see it. You may not be able to see the focus info in the viewfinder, so then you can still adjust the focus ring by knowing the distance and how to adjust it. If you are using auto focus, set it to spot, and be sure to autofocus on the proper part of the subject before fully releasing the shutter.
If the shutter speed drops down below 1/16 second, your only chance for a sharp image is to use a tripod and release cable, or to carefully control your breathing and rest the camera on a solid object (it's like aiming a rifle, if you've ever had instrucion in doing that).
