Hi all,
This is my first post ever (I've been lurking for some time). I shot this set of my daughter's band. They think they are great and want to use them for P.R. However, I really want to know what you guys think. So, please C&C away. Thanks
I like your conversion as lot, and overall the captures are good. A few things I can think off to help you improve are:
-Try to capture more energy or expression in the musician's faces as they perform, such as you did with the drummer. I know it's hard if they're not very animated while playing, you may have to just be ready at the right when they do 'strike a pose' or such. If that doesn't work, try talking them into trying harder while you're shooting, just as you might direct a model in any other shoot.
-Include the performer's instrument, or at least a recognizable part of, whenever possible. Case in point pic#2 of I assume the guitar player. I assume because all I see is a strap on his shoulder.
-Simplify the backgrounds. A few here have blurred backgrounds, which is good, but when focal length and/or distance from the bg don't let you blur it, try to place any distracting elements so they're not distracting - even better if they can be eliminated. Case in point the mechanical thing on the wall behind the drummer. All this bg stuff is moot though if you're including bg elements to portray the surrounding though, IMO the choice of what to use and how is much harder in that case.
I hope you take all the above as the friendly, constructive criticism is was intended to be, and that something of it might help you.
I certainly do take you comments as most friendly and constructive. Thanks for the positves. I'm here to learn. I was trying to show the small nature of the bar and thought that some of the background windows with the moisture helped capture the mood of the place. It was freezing cold outside and really hot inside. You are right about the instruments and good guess on the guitar player! I'll work on your suggestions next time they play......if my daughter continues to let the old guy hang out!
I like these, but what I see missing are shots of the band as a whole. Don't get me wrong, close-ups can be great for capturing the mood/intensity of an individual performer, but when I look at band shots, or am taking band shots, I like to see the interplay between musicians. The communication/chemistry between people, their body language, etc...on stage is what is most interesting to me. Seeing the band as whole, in their element, can provide some very interesting images.
You might also give some thought to exploring different angles in your composition. Not always easy, but if you can get down low and get some shots looking up at the band, you might find some interesting shots. Same for getting up above and shooting down, when possible, or looking across the stage instead of straight on. Keep shooting....looks good
Thanks Guys,
Geoff,
I agree with with everything you are saying. The problem with this venue is that is was a tiny (and I mean tiny) cafe/bar. There was literally no room to move, not for me or even the band. They were basically glued to their spots.
