quiet shutter for theater photography

[delamaza2]

Hi, I've been working with my Canon XT, various lenses. Mixed results but mostly very good. Big and small theaters. My biggest concern is the noise the shutter makes when shooting. Is there ANY DSLR camera out there with a quiet shutter mode? I do full follow-up whenever possible, so the actors are familiar with my presence, BUT when it's a one-off shoot during a presentation, the shutter noise really bugs me (and some others in the audience). Suggestions very welcome.
Thanks.

[narlus]

camera blimps do a good job but are very expensive.

my 5D2 has quieter modes of shooting, but still there is ambient noise.

[delamaza2]

Thanks Tim. I had a look at your pictures. Congratulations! Loved them!
I guess I will have to take the leap and change cameras. What do you think about the 5D?
Thanks SO much for your reply and help!

[Oteck]

shoot in live view mode 2?

[The Moose]

shoot in live view mode 2?

The 350D doesn't have live view.

You'll just have to go for a new camera that has a silent mode or put up with it. Not much you can do really.

[Jim G]

My 1D III has a quiet shutter mode that works quite well; particularly since you can flip the mirror up, open the shutter and then wait until you have the camera back under your jacket or a seat before releasing the mirror back down.

Alternately, Live View is quiet due to the complete lack of mirror activity when you're taking the shot...