Shooting at Work

[scientuslatens]

Hey guys, I was hoping you all could offer up some ideas. I will be doing some informal shooting here at work for some fairly nondescript stock-y pictures for their website. So the issue I have is, well, how do I light this thing? I will have to use my "ultra" "zoom" P&S cam, and I don't have any speedlights, slaves etc to supplement. While I will use the available light from outside as much as possible and maybe some reflectors, some shots will be in server rooms, and I can't just lug in some equipment. Time is of the essence guys, so thanks in advance!

[Grumbledook]

of people or objects?

if objects how big, might be able to build a softbox

[scientuslatens]

of people or objects?

if objects how big, might be able to build a softbox

People, mostly....

[stine]

hey there and first of all "congrats" on the job, of course.
i really like to do shoots like that, it's fun to get the best out of people that aren't used to the camera...
i really like to do that "low-tech", too. so it's just a minimum amount of equipment. no flashes etc.
reflectors sound great, but the most important thing (i guess) would be a good tripod and maybe a remote for your camera. and a good lens, of course. it's always a tricky thing to get enough light (so shoot on a small f-stop) and still get sharp images. but since you have a p+s cam, i guess, the lens-thing isn't available here...

one thing that might be helpful (though i've never used it on a "out of studio" shoot) would be taking transparent paper and tape with you. you could turn normal lamps into "soft" ones and don't get those harsh light conditions. when i do portrait work at home, i also use christmas lights to get some nice reflections in the eyes, but that's optional, i guess. :) taking a normal floor-lamp with you (one that you can carry around and place wherever you like) would be a good idea, too.

over all, i bet it'll be a lot of fun. transparent paper will be your "best friend" and the rest depends on your own attitude. photos don't have to be technically perfect, it's more about getting the mood right and creating a relaxed atmosphere.

keep us posted! cheers


stine