Workshop.

It was the end of 2012. I got an opportunity to attend on a Basic Studio light workshop.
Do you know what that means? Well. Pack together a few photographers. Let's say you are in the middle of the experience level in the group.
Grab a "teacher".
Some light stands, stobes, background, nice girls and let it roll.
Well. I have to admit, the last time when i was in a photo studio, i was approx 5 yrs old, and the kindergarten made the traditional Look how my daughter/son grew up.
That was my last experience.
the tutor told us a lot of things. But 1 sentence grab my attention:
,, The funniest thing in studio lightning is the following: It's damn easy". I've added a few things:
- I've read a lot about how to setup, what to do, why, how to measure, how to calculate........ andsooooooon.
Funny thing. All of us has an extremely important and precise light meter. Our eyes. Put that light here, see the result. Grab this light, and put over there. See. Adjust. Looks good, take a photo. Basically that's all the magic. ( ok i know it far more complex. But you have to admit. If you never tried, you would be as terrified about the studio lights, the setup, the equipment, etc as i was.)
1 day. 6 hours. Result? I feel the i will be able to handle the strobes, and light modifiers just enough to make a band photo, or a nice "profile" picture. And what is more important. I will have the confidence in myself about this. So that will also create a big chance to success. If you as low on budget as me about photography. (I admit it. its a passion for me.) you can still try yourself out in a studio. in Hungary you can rent one with some equipment and backgrounds for 10 euros/hour. Ask a friend, or bring your loved one. And shoot.
Can't be difficult. So for new year, that's the plan. (I've added this to the "Sell 1 photo" whislist)

The Prom

Ok. Here's the deal. You have a camera. You take pictures. You are more or less capable to shoot good pictures. Sometimes. So be a photographer for a young lady's Prom. The Prom.
Scene: A Handball stadium.. Max distance is around 57m (approx 160 feet).
I have to say, i never did something like that. The pressure on me ( what i've felt) was worse than what i've felt on my friend's wedding. This was the Big day for the lil'girl.
I've spoken one of my friend who did some events like this. (Thx for the suggestions Attila!)
I had my 17-105 VR, my 50, and my old 70-300 Tamron, a Nissin Flashgun.
What i did not have: Experience and knowledge about the choreography.  Oh, and i also didn't have a good place. Fixed position behind the display, without the permission to move. Can you imagine? I've faced with a strange situation. Everything was happening right on the other side. Always. The dances, the speeches. Everything.
In no time i got myself in the "Oh, screw it!" mood, but i had to present good/quality photos about the event. No place for letting down the family.
So after a hour (Do you know how difficult to hold  ~2 kg equipment in hand for that long? I never knew. My hands started to shake so much even the VR was not enough to compensate!!!!) i gave up my position, and started to run all over the place to make at least a few good shots. Just before my nerves would melt down,.
I was able to enter to the "dancefloor". That was the another point when I've had to admit. It would be a really good idea to attend on the prolusion. To know where i should pay attention. Of course I had no idea what will happen on the dancefloor.....
So it was somekind of a nightmare. But you know what? The family just loved my photos. :D Even i was able to find some really nice pictures.
So after all it was a good learning. The lessons:
- Don't even start to formal event to make photos without knowing what will happen there, when.
- Be prepared everything. It can happen there is good light, but eventually you'll have to adjust your settings as you would make photos in a low light environment.- Pack water and powerbar. You'll need it.
And to share and show Some of the good pictures.