Photo tips: shooting theatre and music

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Like being in control? Then theatrical photography may not be for you! If you like a challenge, it’s a great way to test your skills; this is a situation that forces you to work within certain limits.

For many big events, flash, tripods and even photography may not be allowed. However, these tips work equally well for more accessible events like school plays, open mic nights and ballet school shows...

Plan ahead

As every theatrical photographer will tell you, doing your research about a show helps identify potential shots. If you have access to the crew, performers or theatre staff, ask them for their highlights. Watch the dress/technical rehearsal if you can. Find out what the show involves and where the best bits happen.

Where to shoot from

In a theatre or concert hall, you could well be shooting from your seat in a fixed position. Try to avoid being too close to the stage, but similarly, you won’t want to be blocked by a sea of heads. Sitting at one side may restrict you to a few angles or a limited view of the action. If you’re able to get permission to move around or access crew/performance areas (or unusual viewpoints), that will give you more options.

Lighting conditions

If you can find out about lighting colours, direction and special effects in advance, this will help you anticipate a stunning shot.

Expect to do without your flash – and your tripod. This is where a camera with a large sensor (to let in lots of light) comes in. Look for high ISO with low noise, plus a large aperture lens and a steady hand! Try fast shutter speeds and set exposure manually (or use the spot meter.) Shows often involve bright lights and dark backgrounds; auto settings may not get it right.

Practise

If you’re daunted by the thought of shooting a one-off event, there are ways to develop your skills. Try shooting sports or birds to get ready for fast moving-action or dance. Build up your low light skills too – and get to know your camera really well so you can change settings in the dark.

Composition

Framing actors lit by spotlight against a dark background makes for a classic – and effective – theatrical shot. Grab your wide angle lens to capture an amazing set or atmosphere (e.g. audience reaction or crowd scenes), but otherwise, think about how the performers are telling the story. Close in on facial expressions, gestures and poses. A telephoto zoom lens is ideal for this purpose.

Recommended cameras

The full-frame α7 Series are high-tech models with large sensors. Check out α7S ii for its superb low-light capabilities and low noise images, or α7 iii for super-fast AF tracking – great for fast-moving performers.

Many of Sony’s models feature a silent shutter to avoid distracting the audience or the performers (an advantage of mirrorless over D-SLR). Another reason to choose Sony’s cameras is relatively compact size, making them less obtrusive, lighter and easier to manoeuvre.

Looking for inspiration? Sony Ambassador and music photographer Peter Neill shares his stories on our Alpha Universe site.