Formal Event

Hey guys. I've been asked to work another formal benefit dinner. I am very much a newbie-hobbyist, but worked a couple of events before. My hope is to stay in manual the entire event. Since my last event I've added the 35 f/1.8 and the AF-P 70-300 VR to my bag. So I'm working with a D5500 18-55 kit, those two, and a manual speedlite.

My main focus is getting shots for the non-profit to use for promotional material and their website. Basic rundown for the event is greeting, dinner, Staff speeches, keynote speaker, and closing.

I have a couple questions. When you approach shooting a low light indoor event, what things are on your mind? Do you have a mental checklist on how you want to work the event? Do you pose people? Are there things I should avoid doing?

Any help or advice would be appreciated


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My first advice would be to visit the venue at least a day in advance and bring someone to pose for you. This is to see if your bounce flash will work in the space. If the ceiling is too high, you might be able to bounce off a nearby wall to get good shots of the speakers and the guests. I find those shots more flattering than direct flash, even if you use a diffuser.

If you are using a flash then you need to gel the flash to match the color of the room lighting. Yellow lighting with a white flash will cause a mismatch.

As to posing, depends on the event and if you are the event photographer or just taking some pictures for someone. As THE photographer I have no problem posing. If I'm not then I would not be intruding.

Lens choice, fastest glass you have assuming the lighting will be dim.