Tips on Event Photography

Seven tips for taking good event photographs. 

1. Read the crowd

No. 1 Tip, is read the crowd, step back and look at what the crowd is doing,  is there a group of people that are happy or involved in the moment which  would capture a nice shot of the event. 

This could include happy, sad or solemn.

2. Look for animated people

No. 2 Tip, look for animated people, what I mean by this is there someone that has a big loud laugh, or the centre of attention to a small group of people. 

Trying to take a candid photograph of these people or the people watching or interacting with this person can make a great shot. 

To take candid shots, keep the camera pointed down and when you see something that looks natural and interesting raise your camera, and take the shot. Don't ask for their permission, that would turn it into a posed shot.

3. Take candid photographs rather than posed

No. 3 Tip,  there is nothing wrong with posed shots, I have taken many great posed shots, but always ask them first and give them time to organise themselves, this especially if there are children involved.

4. Be patient

No. 4 Tip be patient when taking photos whether they are posed or candid, sometimes it won't work and when you least expect it you will capture something special. 

The key is be ready to take that shot when it presents itself.

5. Interact with the crowd

No. 5 Tip don't be afraid to interact with the crowd or group at times, assuming they are not hostile, if they want to ask you a question about photography and what sort of equipment you use, tell them, its a great ice breaker and will make them feel more comfortable with you.

6. Take plenty of photographs including duplicates

No. 6  Tip take plenty of photographs as well as duplicates or in other words more than one shot of the same image.

7. Use the highest resolution

No. 7  Always photograph in the highest resolution your camera can take and if possible photograph in the format of RAW. 

This will give you the best editing options available.  It will take up more memory on your camera and hard drive, but memory is cheap these days, don't scrimp on quality.

For further tips check our Event Photography Complete guide,