Ballet Photography

[Chazs]

Several months ago I took a series of photos of a local ballet company during a gala event which came out quite nice. I gave them several 8x10's, and a few 5x7's (no charge, my first mistake). This last week I received a call in which they would like me to take photos for two performances, one involving a principal dancer from Russia (I said sure, my second mistake). Yikes! The pressure is on. Need some advice...

1) Since I have never done a paid shoot, what would be a reasonable fee? Materials and printing. Or, printing + $100 for time???? Not sure what to do.

2) My fastest zoom is F4. This allowed for some great shots under certain circumstances. However, during spins, the dancers became a blur (I believe I was getting somewhere between 1/10 and 1/50 shutter speed at 800ISO). Would a 2.8 zoom help much in this area, or would it be better to get the 50mm 1.4 and do a little cropping? Also, my 20D has less noise at 1600ISO than the DRebel did at 800ISO, so I gain a stop here.

3) Another option.... I most likely will take the photos during dress rehearsal where a flash might be possible. If so, I may purchase a flash (420EX, the 580EX is out of my price range). Sure, it would be nice to get a few new lenses and a flash all at once, but the first shoot is in 3 weeks, and the wallet's a little thin from getting the a 20D last week). :(

Any advice or help would be appreciated.

[pdrow]

Hello,
I can't give you any advice as to the lens, but most ballet companies do not allow flash at anytime when the dancers are dancing. I would not invest in a flash until you find out. I know last year at our gala parents were going to be allowed to shoot with a flash, but after the first couple of flashes, the principals from NYC Ballet, said it was too distracting.

Usually during technichal run thrus you can see how the lighting is and plan your shots for when the dancer hits her light. I know it takes more time to attend teh techs, but it makes for better photos in the long run.

Our gala is in 2 weeks. I am excited as last year I got my rebel on the day before the final dress. I had so much fun shooting it. I am hoping the year's experience will make for better photos this year.

[cactusclay]

I would think that a 50 1.4 or 1.8 or a 85 1.2 or 1.8 would be good.

[PhotosGuy]

Another option.... I most likely will take the photos during dress rehearsal... Ask the lighting guy if some acts will be lit brighter than others. Also, maybe during dress rehearsal he'd be willing to kick up the lights a stop or two. (Kick in $50 for his "coffee fund") ;-)