The Oviatt A Historical Landmark

The Oviatt A Historical Landmark
Rules and Regulations

Friday, October 21, 2011

The Oviatt Penthouse- thing to be prepared for ..Photography

Photography at Night.....

Being that we also do photography (Top Of The Event Photography) we know the location better than most, but I take it for granted that people understand the difficulties of night shoots.

So all I can do is try to lay out my own difficulties of night shoots.

When choosing a photographer you need to decide on what style you want.  I come from a cinematography background so I like the look of "film".  Now you might be asking what does that mean?  For me and my photographers it means we like the romance..means as much natural lighting as possible.  I'm not a big fan of flash...the Oviatt's draw is that beautiful skyline- so when I shoot I try my best to take multiple shots of the same scene- some with flash some without.  The photo above was taken with flash and then leaving the aperture open for a few seconds in order to get the background.  But to do this photo I had them stay still as possible (just seconds).  The natural lighting is so beautiful and it captures the moment.  Flash is necessary but most photographers that like film are not fans because the flash washes out the details and usually the background.  

Flash has a place..don't get me wrong...because for the detailed shots it's necessary- especially when shooting at night.  The photo below was done with a strong flash- but still tells the story of love. :)  But if you notice the background is non-existent.


Now when there is an action shot- meaning that the couple is doing an entrance for example- there is going to be a blur- possibly even if a flash is used.  It depends how fast they are moving.  I don't mind the action shot- in fact I like the movement- however the client may not.  Below is another example of what I mean.


This is a grand entrance photo!  I love this photo, but unfortunately, it was not what the client anticipated.  They wanted a more clear photo- which would have meant using the flash and you would not have seen the bridal party's reaction.  

The average photographer will hand you about 300-400 photos.  It may not be every shot you wanted.  The best advice I can give is to have a clear discussion with your photographer of the style you are looking for.  Even show them examples of other photographers work that you admire.  If they are good they want to do right by you and make you happy.  Most are willing to come as close to what you want as possible.

But as the client try to take into account your venue and the limitations to the venue.  It's very different shooting outdoors at night than shooting in a ballroom.  In a ballroom you can free hand (meaning the camera is not on a tripod as much) even when using flash.  Why???  Because there are walls and a ceiling that light can bounce off of.  Outside- no such thing.  When I shoot the Oviatt Penthouse I use my tripod a LOT more once the sun is down- because I can't get good clear shots where you can see the background and lighting unless the camera is stock still.  Now again for the close up- I can shoot without a tripod no problem.

Why is a 2nd shooter advised?  This is simple- more coverage is the obvious answer.  But there is one more use- they can hold reflectors at night!  Meaning the light can bounce- giving you a little help for the night shoot.  You may want to bring in a light kit as a photographer- but you have to take space into account.  I don't ever recommend or even encourage a light kit at the Oviatt when the guest count is over 100 people- there isn't the room!  But a 2nd photographer can hold up another flash so now we have twice the light.  Is the 2nd shooter necessary- not really- remember it's all about style and what you are looking for.  

I hope this article helps as you chose the photographer.  While Top Of The Event Photography is a subdivision of Truly Yours Catering- and The Oviatt Penthouse is our portrait studio - we welcome other photographers!  I have many great ones that are friends- there is no jealousy or real rivalry- because our styles and pricing are all different.  You just have to decide what's best for you!

Happy Planning everyone!  And if interest in our photography just call us at (213) 379-4172 and we can go over packages!

The Oviatt is excited to be hosting your event!