Shooting Texas poker tournament

[D.A.]

I don't know is this right place to ask but any way i'll try.
What is the most important to get? I think i'll get all together and
some close up. To use or not to use flash?

[DwightMcCann]

I have shot several moderate tournaments ... will be shooting one this Saturday. The first one I shot I thought five years ago I worried I would bother the players and they would be secretive. Nothing could be further from their responses ... they fall all over themselves to cooperate and get in the pictures.

On technique: there are about 70 tables to start. I try to get a few ultra wide angle of the whole room while full. Then I grab my 16-35mm and make a tour of the whole room. Last time I used my fisheye for this and was very pleased. Then I switch to 24-70mm and make another pass, trying to get something from each table. Then I do the same with 70-200mm f/2.8L IS and try to get face shots of all the interesting looking people and anyone who I recognize from previous tournaments.

For the final table I spend some time walking in circles around the table with my 300mm f/2.8L IS getting faces and then using all the other lenses, including standing right against the dealer and reaching in above his head with a fisheye or wide angle.

On flash, I have tried it and try to do without it although it can be very helpful for a little fill. Players don't seem to mind it if you're not in their face. Again, I'd rather shoot at ISO 2000 than use flash but I do spend part of the day with flash. I also shoot the winners with and without, shaking hands, holding up cash, with chips, etc., etc.

A Tip: When you're going around to the tables early on, tell them that if there is an amazing hand, like royal flush or something to yell at you to race over and grab a shot of it. It will only delay them a minute or so and they make great shots!

Tip 2: Watch for interesting talismans, markers, shirts, outfits, characters, etc.

Tip 3: Take a tabletop tripod if you have one ... just in case.

Tip 4: Charge your batteries and take your chargers. Take extra CF cards.

I hope this helps a little. I don't have galleries because I don't get releases ... I shoot for the casino just for documentary purposes ... so they have images to put in reports/Power Point presentations to the shareholders and management.

You should have a good time!

[D.A.]

First of all thank you for your advices and tips. I am also worried if i would bother the players.
As far i think there will be 12 tables. My lens choices is relative small so i think i'll stick (mostly) with
17-55 or try with 70-200 (have to use ISO 3200 or even above). So i'm little worried 'cause 50D is not that good. I'm not (yet) paid so much so i can't buy better equipment.

I wil have a good time and hope will post few pictures here.

Once again, thank you.

[D.A.]

I'm also thinking of using off camera light.

[NaKiD EyE]

Originally Posted by D.A.

I'm also thinking of using off camera light.

lol don't think anyone would like that too much.