Quaking in Kosak Boots Photo

Photographer’s Note

A very different post from what I am used to today, and the reason.... Last Friday the Moscow Don Kosak Choir gave a performance in Gouda. The conductor is a friend of a friend and I was invited to the perfromance. Just before I left home my friend called and said bring your camera, the conductor would like you to photograph the Kosaks. At the time I thought this could be nice, but when I realised that I was expected to photograph for their new brouchure on stage with the choir, under the theatre lights, with instructions being continuously given, "now the soloist, now with movement, now.......", both I and my D90 felt very inexperienced. I kept thinking of all those wonderful "on stage" images I have seen in the past from Kev Ryan and used this as a calming method. I was glad that the D90 shoots at high ISO and more so that I had VR on my lens.:)
I have just delivered the images.....but as yet no feedback.

Aviller, KevRyan, Bien, patdeph, serp2000 has marked this note useful

Critiques | Translate

Aviller (3134) 2009-01-08 5:16

Beautiful picture with a perfect exposure. The contrast between the red coats and white hats on the one hand and the dark black background on the other stands out to me. Too bad that the floor isn't particularly interesting but there's nothing you could have done about it.

KevRyan (22422) 2009-01-09 2:57

haha! Now I see! You have discovered some of the difficulties and intricacies of stage photography - it can be such a demanding task for both camera and photographer for sure - the monitors (fold backs) on the floor always seem to get in the way - the higher and lower end of the light spectrum can muddy the darks and over expose the highlights, movement, differential lighting, colour of lighting, wide f stops - limited focal length, distracting backgrounds,,,,once and only moments gone in the blink of an eye and for the more formal end of show stuff....limited time...the need to direct and move people...the expectation of professionalism ......lack of understanding of the requirements and demands of the photographic conditions.....ahh!

I'm honoured you thought of my efforts with all of this and that it brought a calming effect.......I'm smiling about that!

This one doesn't quite pull it off Elaine but it's a bold attempt - the overall effect of the red and white against that inky background is stunning in itself but the lack of focus on the troupe doesn't make this a good promo shot ...but what is good is that you took the opportunity and gained the experience of doing it......it takes time to work at it - some experiment, some luck, some planning.....I hope you do more when you get the opportunity.

best wishes KEv ;-))

Angshu (34177) 2009-01-10 21:50

Dear Elaine
At ISO 1250, the picture is remarkably noiseless. Of course there was this spotlight, but this 'action' was well captured against the dark BG....but I do agree with Kevin regarding lack of decisive focus here. Picture reminds me of the book called Russka by Rutherford
Best Regards
Angshu
No fog in the last couple of days in Delhi :-)

kevinos (6927) 2009-01-15 22:09

Well, you have certainly used the available light to create a colourful and dramatic image Elaine. I'm sure the Kosaks were pleased with you work. regards kevin

patdeph (18572) 2009-01-18 2:51

hello Elaine
for 1250 oso,I can't see any noise,I am impressed by the quality you have obtained!I like how the red and white clothes are standing our the black background,and I think this is really well framed!This was a difficult shot,and you did it pefectly,the focus work is not bad at all!
Regards
Pascale

aadilj (17950) 2009-01-23 21:25

Hey elaine...ru in India??? and if yes where??/ if you come to delhi pls send me a mail and I shall definitely get in touch. this image is lovely. I love the vibrant hues and the way you have got the darkness to play games for you

serp2000 (9775) 2009-04-05 3:57

;))) Fine and funny shot, Elaine,
Good note, nice colours. TFS!
Serghei.