Shooting Runway - Need advice

[AndrewCCM]

Well not exactly a runway, but in a private stone gallery for interior designers and highend furnishings.

Anyway, I have the opportunity to shoot a 30min fashion show tomorrow night. Supposedly, some of the dresses being shown sell for upwards of $30k.. I am up for the challenge, but have never shot such a gig before. It will not be elevated like a traditional runway I am guessing.

I am considering setting up an off camera AB800 with brolly or umbrella to get some off-axis lighting. Shooting with probably both a 50mm F1.4 prime and a 24-70L F2.8.

Does anyone have any tips for me?

BTW: I know the person that runs this gallery which is how I got the gig. It's for my own personal use and not paying. However, I felt like it was a good opportunity to get some experience in this area and network a bit.

Thanks!

[AndrewCCM]

LOL - 30 views and no advice... Guess other are interested in some tips as well.

I guess I'll just wing it tomorrow.

Thanks though!

[DEMDeepEllumMusic]

Andrew any idea on what sorts of material that is being used in the clothing? Really watch out for reflective type cloth and cloth that is sheer to bright flashes (many an actress a few years ago got caught wearing sheer dresses that became super sheer under the flash of the paparazzi so many learned really quickly to have some flash shots taken of them in couture before going out in a new creation).

In walkway shows many a person is used to seeing that upward angle of the shoot since the models traditionally are on an elevated runway so you may have to get down into a crouching position to get an angle.

Also if they are flowing type dresses you may want to boost your flash power up a bit to get that exposure time down to freeze that cloth movement. So don't be surpised that you may want to shoot at 1/125 or faster!

[AndrewCCM]

Thank you!

[picasso]

Sorry, wish someone did have more advice for you. I would like to know just to hear what is used. I am clueless with this type of stuff. It sounds like a cool deal though. Have a good time and show us your shots. From what I have seen of your shots you should do fine.

Paul

[AndrewCCM]

Thanks Paul.. If they end up "acceptable", I'll post a couple. LOL

[DEMDeepEllumMusic]

Don't be afraid to go WIDE angle, especially if you can get close to the stage and you have two bodies or are fast at changing lenses. I'm talking sub 15mm!

[Slight Clutter]

I just did a fashion show last weekend, but was assigned to the backstage make-up/dressing room area. I'd love to help you, but I know next to nothing about lighting. I wish you happy shooting though, and I can't wait to see what you come up with.

[photosbysergio]

Good luck Andrew. Just brought back a memory of "Sex and the City" where Carrie bites the dust on the runway and the photographers go crazy with their cameras. Do post some pics as most of us probably have never shot a runway shoot before.