I was just approached to do photos for a dance...

[Miss Kris]

And I don't have any studio lighting. Before I commit, I would love to know what type of lighting anyone suggests having for pictures in a gym or classroom.
Thanks so much!
Kristine

Kristine, I don't have an answer for you, but I have wondered the same thing before. Great question! I look forward to any answers that the "local photogs" around here can give you! Good luck if you take on the job!

[sam ellis]

Wow Lighting is ALWAYS the issue in these situations !

Its tricky. Are you intending to do formals? Like couples ? or small groups? or of the actual dance.

If you are doing decor use a tripod and slow shutter speed and no flash.

If you are doing the couples either studio lighting (which you would have to get used to) or an attached flash (can't think of a better word ) which you can point at the ceiling and bounce flash on the people.

Other ideas is many peope use either a "gary fong" to spread the light, or a very fast lense ( like 2.8)

Hope I have helped you a little. I am sure many people will jump in

[Miss Kris]

It would be of the couples and maybe small groups of friends for their "offical "dance photo . I have a Speedlite and a 2.8 lens. I can set up in a classroom so I was wondering if I adjust the white balance for the flouescent and use my Speedlite, that would be enough. I guess my best bet is to just do a little trial run and see how they turn out.
Thanks so much for your response Sam.
Any other advice is well appreciated!!!
Kristine

[SAHMom]

What are you shooting with? I think if you are able to use your speedlight remotely, you could put it in a softbox and use a reflector opposite and have very good results. That may not be enough lighting for more than 2 people though. You are going to really want your aperture to be at least 5.6 or more closed down for couple portraits, so you will need some external lighting.

[Miss Kris]

I shoot with a Canon 5D and have a 24-70 2.8 along with a 50 1.4. And as I mentioned above I have the Speedlite 430 EX.
I'm so glad you weighed in Kim. And thank you for the aperture suggestion.

[SAHMom]

I wish I could help you with the canon speedlite... I'm a Nikon shooter and have successfully used my speedlite off camera in a softbox and it gives me fabulous results. Maybe look at the strobist webstie: http://strobist.blogspot.com/ for tips on how to use your flash off camera.