Take better pictures at events and parties with your Nikon Quickstart cheat sheet
Use our tips and tricks and your downloadable cheat sheet to get better images at gatherings of people
Nikon Quickstart is a series of Nikon magazine cheat sheets for beginners, in which we’re demystifying some of the techniques and tricks that will instantly improve your photography and video. From parties with friends to weddings and nights out, gatherings of people provide great opportunities to record magical moments of human connection. Whether you’re having a night on the town, at a cocktail party with friends or even at a wedding, there are lots of situations and moments to record. Read on for the basics of getting it right and some lens suggestions – download your free Nikon Quickstart cheat sheet as a handy reminder.
Use angles for energy
Looking at a crowd from different perspectives can create powerful imagery. Try kneeling down to look up or see if you can get higher than the guests to show scale.
Mix groups and portraits
Events and parties are all about different types of interaction and behaviour. Mix up single portraits and group shots for a better overview of the event.
Look for the action
Whether it’s the dancefloor or the kitchen at a house party, follow the crowd to capture busy party vibes.
Take candid shots
Take pictures of people behaving naturally for a documentary-style record of the event. And always let people know beforehand that you will be taking pictures throughout the party.
Set your camera for low light
Use the lowest aperture number you have available in low light and set a reasonably high ISO. Choosing Auto Mode can set the exposure for you if you want the camera to do all the work.
Try lengthening shutter speed
Adding motion blur can bring a feeling of energy. Try Shutter Priority mode and experiment with different shutter speeds to see the effect it can have on your images.
Great lenses for events and parties
Classic ‘standard’ focal lengths are great for pictures of people in an environment, while a large aperture helps with the low light.
Beginner’s choice
Pro choice
DX choice
NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 VR
Download your Nikon Quickstart events and party photography cheat sheet here. Want more? Click here to see all the Nikon Quickstart cheat sheets
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