How to Take Pageant Photography

Pageants typically have enough lighting that a photographer will not need to use a flash.

Pageants, whether they are children, fitness or beauty, can be a good source of income for any photographer who knows how to shoot the event correctly. Just like any other on-stage performance, pageants use spotlights and other light techniques that should provide enough light for a photographer to work with. With the light and set design determined by the pageant organizer, photographers are left to select the best location and the right equipment to get the job done.

Things You'll Need

• Single lens reflex camera
• 85mm and 200mm lens
• Extra camera battery

Instructions

1. Visit the location of the pageant before the actual event. If possible, meet with the director or someone who can give you an idea of where the contestants will be positioned and how the show will run.

2. Determine if there will be a specific location where you will be shooting from or if you have the ability to walk around to capture the best picture. If you are confined to one location, visit that location and inspect the background that will be in your pictures. If you are shooting from the side of the stage, then you might have to contend with the other side of the stage as a background.

3. Pack your camera bag with a medium- and long-range telephoto. An 85mm will be good for the medium-range lens and a 200mm should be long enough for most indoor events. Pack extra camera batteries, particularly if you are going to be restricted from moving around during the event.

4. Compose your picture so there is only one contestant in the frame at any one time. Or, if there are people in the background, use a wide enough aperture setting so the background is slightly out of focus. This will highlight the subject of your image and make the picture more appealing to the individual in the picture.

5. Meter on the subject when they are in the spotlight. This will further add to the individual in the picture by making the background appear darker. Take a number of images of the contestant doing different things to give you potential customer some options in selecting a picture.

References

• RisingBlackstar: Five Tips for Better Event Photography