Suggestions for Hunting (horseriding) shots

[Lightchaser]

I've been asked to shoot a hunt in a few weeks and I'm fully expecting it to be dark ... and raining. Should be a blast.

Anyway, I'm used to shooting equestrian events, but normally pack up once the light starts fading as the images start losing their crispness at the higher ISOs. (Is this just my camera??)

I use my 70-200 2.8 Sigma and it's awesome, I'm just concerned that the low light will result in a heap of soft, blah images.

Suggestions anyone?

[Big WIll]

flash an option???

[Lightchaser]

Yeah, no - I'll be at a healthy distance and I'm reliably informed that horses don't appreicate flashes - don't want to cause a crash!

[Borderfox]

Can you get close enough to use a 50mm f1.8? I use that in low light for showjumping. If its at mid-day you should be grand if you can pick your spots well..

[Lightchaser]

Can you get close enough to use a 50mm f1.8? I use that in low light for showjumping. If its at mid-day you should be grand if you can pick your spots well..

Funny you mention that lens, I've been considering it. I'd be interested to see some examples of your results with it - can you post some?

[musicmate]

the only advice i can give you is dont be affraid to bump up the ISO to achive higher shutter speeds also if you are worried about low light levels then use a monopod also but you should be ok with the 70-200f2.8 most of all have a goodtime if the light is going to be that bad & flash is not an option there will be little else more you can do

[superdiver]

Or maybe the 85mm 1.8?

[Jon, The Elder]

Lightchaser- I shoot horses all during the season. Though not a favorite setup, I do shoot in arenas and other low light situations.
I use: 20D + 70/200L f2.8 (Canon) + Sigma 500 flash unit with a Better Beamer. You can reach out 100-150 ft easily.

As to horses not liking flash - I've never had a problem. Just don't let go right in their face. Consider that they are out when lightning is in the air.