Stage lighting:

Learning to deal with the varied lighting your presented with is probably the single biggest challenge you'll face. No two events will have the same quality of light. The object is to build upon the cards your dealt not to blow out the stage lights.

The best flash exposure is the least noticeable. A center weighted spot meter is the key. Place the spot meter on the performers face and take your reading. TTL or "threw the lense" metering is best. This system shuts down the exposure when just the right amount of light has passed threw the lense. This is especially crucial when your working with backlighting which can through your exposures all over the place.

Don't make the mistake of leaving your flash at home if it's an outdoor concert. A flash set to "fill in" the dark portion of a peformers face is mandatory. Once again use just enough power to fill in shadows not elimante them.

What would have been a great shot of George Jones falls short because of the overpowering flash. Note the harsh shadow to the left of his head. I was still able to market this photo because of his warm smile.

Photo's by Raymond L. Tharaldson

all rights reserved

2000