How to Photograph a Theater Production

A beautiful image from a well-photographed production.

You have just landed a great assignment. You have agreed to photograph a theater production. You have also agreed to one of the most challenging tasks for a photographer. You have to deal with uneven stage lighting and movement. You also have to deal with nervous actors, protective assistants and busy stage hands. You will not be able to redo anything and there are no setups. Cameras and lenses must function flawlessly the first time or you can miss a critical shot. You will find, as you view the photos from this assignment, that the rewards make it all worthwhile.

Things You'll Need

• Digital or Film Single Lens Reflex camera with 70-200 f.2.8 zoom lens
• 24 mm f 2.8 lens (optional)
• 50 mm f 1.8 lens (optional)
• 85 mm f 1.8 lens (optional)
• Monopod (optional)

Instructions

Preparation

1. Read the script so that you understand the focus of the production.

2. Consult with the director and producer of the show to get their ideas on the most significant aspects of the production.

3. Attend a dress rehearsal. Take note of the lighting, the shots you would like and the best places to be to get those shots. Pay particular attention to the timing of events so that you can be at the right place at the right time.

4. Get permission to photograph a full dress rehearsal. You will avoid having to deal with irate members of the audience if you block their view while trying to get a shot.

Typical Shots

1. Get a wide shot of the full stage during each scene.

2. Get medium shots of actors interacting in small groups.

3. Get close shots of actors showing expressions, especially shock, surprise, horror and other intense emotions.

4. Get a number of photos of the full cast at the end of the show.

Behind the Scenes

1. Go into the wings and photograph actors waiting to go on.

2. Go backstage and take photos of stage hands at work.

3. Go to the dressing rooms, with permission, and get shots of make-up sessions, costuming and last-minute clothing adjustments.

Tips & Warnings

• If you use a digital camera, make sure that it can handle low light levels with minimal noise. If you are using film, use the fastest film you can that does not have objectionable grain. The key here, film or digital, is high ISO and fast lenses. The minimum ISO should be 800 and the maximum aperture at least f 2.8. Anti-shake lenses or bodies are a great advantage. A monopod, a collapsible single leg support, may offer some extra stability but may slow you down.

• The use of flash is not allowed in theaters during a show. Get permission for everything you want to photograph. You can be tossed out of a theater or have your camera confiscated if you carry in a camera without permission.

References

• PPR: Photographing Theatre
• Gavtrain -- Photography Training: 7 Theatre Photography Tips

Resources

• Mike Eddowes: Theatre, arts and music photographer