Christening... help!

[scoff]

Been asked to do a christening this weekend (asuming we are not flooded out!!)

Any tips for the in-church lighting?
Was going to use full manual and Raw dial in my settings and leave it more or less at that!!

I've never been to this church, and will not have the chance to go before the day.. will be there early for a quick look... so not Ideal.

Any suggested shots would also be appreciated.. not a religious type, so this sort of thing is not within my usual remit!!

 

[Matt]

you need to get in there and see what light you have, and make sure teh vicar or whatever is ok with flash photography....dunno about much else though!

 

[Jimmy_Lemon]

any pics of the church online that might help you before hand?

 

[hypnotic]

I did a Christening last month .... Absolute nightmare!

Vicar was fine about flash etc but as soon as he started the main bit at the font he announces "Everyone gather around the font"

I had just set myself up for some nice shots and now had all and sundry blocking my view. Did consider standing on one of the pews but thought better of it. Might take a step ladder for the next one.

Crank up your iso to the highest level you think your camera can produce the goods.

 

[scoff]

Thanks for the tips... ie dont do it!!
Was planing on using flash.. I can only go to ISO 1600 so could be interesting without flash!!!
I have now been dragged into football training Sunday morning so I have even less time to get sorted.... I am getting a bad feeling about this one!!

 

[oldgit]

oh ohh... it's pretty much essential that you scout out the venu first and see what light and angles you have to play with. That way you can plan and have some contingencies. If you have time then take a few test shots to get the exposure right.

 

[oldgit]

...ohh and dont go above ISO800 unless you want it to be grainy and snowy.

 

[moomike]

I think that last time a christening thread came up, Keltic Ice Man mentioned that flash can damage babies eyes if they are very young - not sure myself but may be something to consider just in case.
Make sure you have a steady support - tripod if you can manage it, monopod if not.
Am sure you'll be fine on the day, just make sure you get some classic shots.
Good luck mate

 

[scoff]

Ok.. I have now done a Christening.. and a Catholic one at that... Didnt realise they went on for sooooo long!!!

Mixed feelings about the results. Lighting was Poor, so had to crank upto 1600ISO Some grainyness, but once printed I think the piccies will look ok as long as they dont get blown up too much.

What have I learnt???
I think my 28-135 IS needs callibrating??? I've had my doubts about it before, I think this is its final straw!!!
The only thing in true focus is in the centre of the frame... anything around the edge is off and the DOF is rubbish!!!!

Oh... dont do any more christenings.. The preists always get in the way!!!