Best Tips for Shooting Indoor Events
1. Master ISO
Indoor lighting can be a challenge, so adjusting your ISO is crucial. Start with an ISO of around 800 and adjust as needed. If the venue is dimly lit, you might need to bump it up to 1600 or even 3200. Just be mindful of the noise higher ISOs can introduce.
2. Aperture Matters
A wider aperture (lower f-stop number) like f/2.8 or f/4 allows more light to hit the sensor, which is perfect for indoor settings. It also helps create that beautiful background blur (bokeh) that makes your subject stand out.
3. Shutter Speed Sensitivity
To avoid motion blur, especially when photographing moving subjects, keep your shutter speed relatively fast. A good starting point is 1/125th of a second. If there's a lot of movement, you might need to go even faster.
4. White Balance
Indoor lighting often has a yellow or orange tint, which can affect your photos. Set your white balance to match the light source. If you're still unsure, use the "Auto White Balance" (AWB) setting or try the "Incandescent" or "Tungsten" settings for a more accurate color balance.
5. Flash
Using a flash can be tricky indoors. It can wash out your subjects or create harsh shadows. If you do use a flash, try bouncing it off the ceiling or a nearby wall to diffuse the light. An external flash with a swivel head is ideal for this.
6. The Lens
A fast lens with a wide aperture is your best friend for indoor photography. Prime lenses like a 50mm f/1.8 or a 35mm f/1.4 are fantastic choices. They let in more light and provide a sharper image quality.
7. Camera Stabilization
If you're shooting in low light without a tripod, image stabilization can be a lifesaver. Many newer cameras and lenses come with built-in stabilization, which helps reduce camera shake.
8. Experiment with Different Modes
Don't be afraid to experiment with different shooting modes. Manual mode gives you complete control, but if you're just starting out, try aperture priority mode (Av or A) or shutter priority mode (Tv or S) to ease into manual adjustments.
9. Post-Production & Editing
Even with the best settings, indoor photos might need a large amount of editing. Adjusting exposure, contrast, and color balance can bring your photos to life like you want them.
