Orchestras, any photo tips?

[vfilby]

Hi,

I am performing next week and the conducter (a friend) has asked me to take some pictures for him. Around 65 people with acoustic panels behind them on stage. I will probably pose them on the stage wih instruments for the shot. Unfortunately it is not the nicest venue in the world.

I have access to my camera, tripod, a couple photogenic strobes, and some of a friends gear as well.

Any tips, suggestions or what not would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance,

[Jon]

Do they have a balcony you can shoot from? I'm sure they aren't on steep enough risers to see the back rows otherwise.

[vfilby]

Hi Jon,

There is a balcony. It is a decent sized hall with a seating capacity of around 500. The windows are very narrow and spaced out like in a church, just not stained glass. So.. big and dark describes the room.

I will be stopping by early this week to get a feel for the joint.

Vince

[Jon]

Have them crank up the stage lighting and the work lights unless you've got strong-enough strobes to cover the whole group without being in the picture. This, of course, assumes that it's got a regular stage with dedicated lighting . . .