Photography help, no equipment, no money!

Question

I've been asked to do some 'prom style' portraits at a party in a couple months. I do not have the equipment, nor the money to buy it at this time. The party is indoor, I'm guessing low light. They'll have a backgroud set up. All I have in a camera, external flash, and a reflector. Any suggestions on how to pull this off? Thanks for the help!

Answer 1

Well you have a camera and a flash ... Just use your photo skills and shoot.

You can do some testing before the shoot and get your rusty skills under control

Usually the Prom supplies the background they want based upon the theme of the dance

You just have to show up with your camera, a tripod and spare batteries for your flash.

I guess the basic question is how did you get this job?  Usually there are many "prom" photographers out there all set up with the equipment they need, order blanks, an assistant to collect the money and website to display the images after the shoot.  Some even have a lab that will dropship the photos to the clients for you.

Answer 2

I'm confused...what more do you need?

Answer 3

Buy a Gary Fong Light Sphere and practice using it for this event.

This was taken with a Light Sphere and an external flash

http://www.flickr.com/photos/perki88/252...

Answer 4

As already suggested, take a few test shots before the event.  This will help tell you the distance needed from the subjects, including the camera, flash and reflector.  From these test shots, you should be able to adjust the angles of these pieces for the best results.

You don't want harsh shadows, neither on the subjects, or the backgrounds,  You also want to avoid bright, reflective highlights on the subjects.

Do these tests in the same conditions of the event, or, at least, as close as you can simulate them.  Give yourself enough time to study the prints made from these shots.  Practice shooting people in light clothing and dark.

Good luck and have fun.

Answer 5

What do you need to take a professional portrait?

1. Camera( you have that)

2. external flash (you have that)

3.  Hey you even have a reflector board!

One other thing you need, and that is a tripod!  One that will suffice can bought at wal mart for pittance.

And they have the background cool!

Your set to go!  

What else do you think you need?