A good opportunity has come my way, but I'd benefit from some pointers please!

[rusticalex]

I've got an opportunity to take some photos at a local metal workshop. I went in there a couple of months ago, and was intrigued by the look of the characters in there working away, and the atmosphere in the place - it seemed like a place that might not have changed in 80 years. The 3 or 4 workers all had interesting, photogenic faces (although they might not agree!), and I've been thinking since then that I'd love spend an hour or two in there with my camera. Well, today I got the nerve up to ask the boss if I could come along some time to take some photos, and he said yes! Result!

So, now I've got to figure out how I go about doing it, and all the other things that go with it. I've got no experience of going into a place and doing a shoot. I'm about to get a D7000 (should be here on Monday!), and will try to use what natural light there is in the workshop. I'll also ask the guys to just carry on as normal, then start snapping away, as discreetly as possible. However, bearing in mind my lack of experience in this kind of photography, and the fact that this is possibly a rare opportunity, I want to make the most of it, and hope that some of you might be able to give me some useful pointers as to a) techniques to use b) settings to use c) any quirky ideas for some really interesting shots d) any other thoughts you have.

Many thanks
Alex

 

[Brian Sayle]

Sounds great, what type of workshop is it ? like wood or metal work ? if there working on stuff i would watchout for sparks dust flying about, watch your lens, maybe a protector UV might be called for.
Maybe try watching them for a bit, 10 mins or so perhaps and see what they are doing before you start shooting

 

[rusticalex]

Sounds great, what type of workshop is it ? like wood or metal work ? if there working on stuff i would watchout for sparks dust flying about, watch your lens, maybe a protector UV might be called for.
Maybe try watching them for a bit, 10 mins or so perhaps and see what they are doing before you start shooting

A metal working shop made basically out of corrigated iron with a timber frame. There will be sparks flying about, for sure, so the filter is definitely a good idea, thanks.

Any other thoughts please?

 

[Nod]

Yup, that's one of the situations where a protection filter (or UV or Skylight) is almost a must. Ask the workers if they will be put off or compromised as far as safety goes by flash - you might need it! Go as high as you dare as far as ISO goes - there's a thread somewhere dicussing high ISO use on a D7000 ( http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=438188 ) and the PP techniques used to reduce noise.

Keep out of the way and alway be aware where the hot things are!

Enjoy the shoot.

Nod.

 

[Bristolian]

If they have a forge - like a Smithy - then they'll be able to generate some spectacular sparks on demand. There's a technique I've seen used where they heat a bit of metal and bend it in half then every time they hit it you get a firework display of sparks - all you have to do is get the timing right

 

[rusticalex]

Thanks guys for the tips. Yes, I'll look out for the hot places, and take care of my lenses carefully! I'm very excited about the potential for high ISO shots with the D7000, and reckon this will be a good chance to really try it out!

Cheers
Alex