Enjoy the special moments of a ballet recital over and over again after documenting it with your camera. Start by moving beyond the automatic exposure option on your camera to capture this tricky subject. Photographing a quick moving recital requires setting a fast shutter speed, compensating for low-light, keeping the camera stable and anticipating the dancer's movements.
Camera Settings
Capture ballerinas running, leaping and twirling by using the shutter priority mode on your camera. Usually noted by the abbreviation Tv, or time value, adjusting the shutter speed allows you to freeze the movement of fast action. Set the shutter speed to the same value as your camera's flashes maximum flash sync speed, which usually ranges from 1/60 to 1/250, when shooting indoor performances. If the dancers will grace an outdoor stage during daylight, select a faster shutter speed, such as 1/2000.
Film or ISO Choice
When using a film camera, pick out film based on the dance recital location. For outdoor performances in daylight, use 400 ISO film. If the performance is scheduled for indoors in dim light, opt for a more light sensitive 3200 ISO film. If you're using a digital camera, you can adjust the ISO setting as the lighting changes. As you increase the ISO setting, the photos become increasingly grainy. Start by using 800 ISO or 1600 ISO.
Using a Flash
If the ballet recital takes place outside, you won't need to use a flash, but if the performance takes place on an evenly lit stage with dim lights, attach an external flash to your camera. The built-in flash on both single-lens reflex and compact cameras only reach 10 to 12 feet -- not far enough to reach dancers on most stages. Depending on the model of external flash used, the camera accessory can illuminate up to 100 feet, making it possible to light the dancers while sitting several rows beyond the stage. If the stage has bright directional lighting operated by stage hands and spotlights on individual dancers, leave the flash turned off.
Stabilizing the Camera
Dance recitals can last hours. Keep your camera stead by using a tripod or monopod. If you can stand at the edge of the stage without obstructing the view of other guests, use a tripod. This eliminates motion blur from small hand movements or shakiness from tired arms. If you're sitting within the audience, choose a seat near the front of one of the sections or an aisle seat. Mount the camera on a monopod. The extra leg of support stabilizes the camera without bothering others seated near you.
About Timing
Even after optimizing your camera to photograph a ballet recital, you need to anticipate the movements of the dancers. Attend a dress rehearsal or practice to learn the routine. If you know when the solo will occur, or when your favorite dancer will take center stage, you're more likely to capture the perfect moment. If you can't study the performance in advance, stay focused on the task at hand. Keep your eye on the camera's viewfinder and finger on the shutter button throughout the entire performance so you're always ready.
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