It can be difficult to photograph carnivals and other events. Photographing carnivals or events can be challenging. You must also contend with other photographers and find the action moving fast.
Sometimes, you may only have a few seconds to capture the shot as the procession moves on. However, if captured properly, special event photography may produce amazing photographs.
These are 10 tips that will help you improve your carnival or event photography.
How to prepare for Carnival Photography
Preparation is key for any type of photography. It is important to plan and research early for carnival or event photography.
When I go attend an event, I plan at least one year. You will not only ensure that you get the best accommodation, but you might also be able to secure tickets for the event that sells out months ahead.
You will also be able to learn about the history and customs of the event, which can help you get shots that are not possible for others. Your photos will be better if you are more knowledgeable.
Why you should practice before hand
Sharpness is a major challenge when capturing great carnival photos. It is common to see everything moving at high speeds. It takes skill to take photos that aren’t blurred and also well.
If you’re not confident with adjusting settings or capturing sharp images, practice before you buy. You can improve your photography skills by practicing.
Practice taking photos at a local event. Take a look at the results to see where you can improve. Your errors in photography will teach you more than your successes.
If you plan to attend an event at night or inside, you’ll need to know low-light and night photography.
It can be difficult to photograph moving objects handheld in these conditions. You need to practice and learn what you should do.
How to only pack what you need
Most photographers will tell you to bring enough equipment for event photography. Too much gear can cause you to be too heavy and hinder your ability to photograph the event.
It is important to have all the equipment you need. Your research and preparation will determine the equipment you need.
A tripod is required for long-exposure photography. A flash is also needed if you plan to take portraits.
When photographing events, it’s worth having two cameras. One is equipped with a wide-angle lens, and the other with a zoom lens.
Contrary to landscape and street photography, where you might have the time to change lenses, carnival photography will not allow you to do that. Having two cameras means you can use one at any time.
You will need a memory card and batteries. Make sure to have plenty of both. The following is my basic equipment list for carnival or event photography:
- A camera equipped with a 24-70mm zoom
- A camera with a 70-200mm zoom lens
- Speed lite flash
- Minimum 4 to 5 batteries
- For every day I’m there, at least one 16GB or 32GB memory cards
These are not the only things I bring. I’ll pack a tripod if low light or night photography is involved. A small gorilla pod is also useful for situations where tripods are not permitted.
This is my basic equipment, but I will update it as I have more lenses or filters.
Scout the Location to Get Better Images
Knowing where you should be at an event is often the difference between taking great photos and missing the action. Once you’ve done your research and have an idea of where you want it to be, you can go check the location before the event.
It is important to have a clear view. Imagine what it would be like to have thousands of people around you. See if there are any problems. Talk to locals if you have any tips.
To get the best spot, arrive early once you have chosen your location. It might take a while to see the action, but it is better than waiting.
How to Separate Your Subject
Event photography is all about how you compose and frame your shots. It’s easy to lose your subject in crowds and other elements.
It is important to make your subject stand out in an image. This will draw the viewer’s attention.
You have a variety of options.
- Use a large aperture. This will create a shallower field. This means that you can take a photograph of a person while blurring the background. This will make them stand out amongst the rest. It is important to ensure that they are clearly visible. A blurred background will make the image unusable if there is any blurring.
- Simple background Another way to isolate your subject is to frame the shot so that the background does not contain distracting elements. If you’re photographing someone, you might ask them to stand against a wall. Use a neutral background color that isn’t too distracting from your subject.
- Use post-production – It’s always better not to capture the image correctly while taking it. If that fails, you can always try it in post-production. You can create a shallower depth-of-field effect by blurring your subject’s background in Photoshop. You can isolate your subject by using different levels of brightness, contrast, or saturation.
Although it will take some time, eventually, you will be able to quickly assess the situation and decide how to isolate your subject.
Wide Angle Shots: Why you should also try them
While close-ups are great, wide-angle shots are equally important. These images can provide context and tell a more interesting story.
You can do this by taking photos from a high position in order to capture the grandeur of the event. You could also create a carnival photoshoot by directing your model to a location that will allow you to create a scene.
It might not always be possible, but these shots will give variety to your collection.
How to use Burst Mode in Carnival Photos
Burst mode is a good choice for event photography. Burst mode is when your camera takes multiple frames per second. A good DSLR can shoot between 10 and 15 frames per second, depending on the settings.
This is a great way to get the perfect shot. It will take a lot of luck to capture someone moving at the right time and with just one shot.
Burst mode allows you to select the right moment, such as when the person’s eyes open and smiles.
Burst mode can cause your memory cards to fill up quickly, so be sure to have spares. Depending on the event, I may use up to three 32GB memory cards per day.
How to work with the light
Light is another important element of any photo. Event photography is more reactive than other types of photography, which can often require waiting for the right light.
It is important to learn how to make the most of the light available. It can be difficult to properly expose an image if there is a bright source behind the subject. Expose the subject, and you’ll notice that the sky is too bright.
You may notice shadows on the face of someone you photograph in midday sunlight. You may need to use a flash to fill the shadows (known as ” Fill-in Flash“).
It is important to be aware of these conditions and to know what to do. If you have trouble capturing images in certain lighting conditions, you should learn more about the various techniques and solutions that can be used to solve your problem.
Next, practice them until you feel comfortable with them.
Do not forget the crowds.
It is easy to get distracted by carnival photography and forget to capture the carnival itself. Sometimes the best candid photos are of the people who attend.
Look for interesting people or unique moments. It’s possible to capture the interactions between spectators and performers. Capture people’s reactions to amazing things.
These shots will give you a better view of the festival.
Safety tip: Be aware of your belongings
Crowds can also pose a risk to thieves and pickpockets. There is also the possibility of the equipment being accidentally damaged by other people.
Keep your equipment close at hand and never leave it unattended.
Keep your tripod strap close at hand in case it is knocked over. You may need to protect your camera from water depending on the event.
You will need something like a bag to protect your camera at festivals like the Songkran in Thailand and Holy Festival in India.
A carnival photo can grab the attention of the viewer. Sometimes it can inspire others to visit the event, and other times highlights something that is not possible for everyday tourists.
This type of photography can be difficult and takes practice. Your photos will be noticed in any portfolio if you are able to master them.