Taking Photos in a Nightclub
Photo: Aleksandr Popov
Nightclubs are one of the most fun environments you can be in for shooting photos. I chatted with photographer & designer Jamie McArdle to gain insight on what he’s learned so far working for numerous clubs in Belfast.
Photo: Alexander London
Use A Flash
Because you are often in low lighting conditions, you will need a flash. Get a speedlight flash that connects to your camera via hot shoe. Ensure whatever model you get features a focusing beam system. The focusing beam system will cast a pattern on your subject so that your camera can focus extremely fast. It may be beneficial to match your camera brand to the brand of your flash. While you will be using a flash in most cases, don’t be afraid to turn it off and get creative with the ambient lighting.
Camera Settings
Have your aperture wide open to let as much light in as possible. In addition, use a slow shutter speed in order to capture the strobes from the lights. This will also allow you to keep a lower ISO which will make your images higher quality with less noise.
Photo: Jamie McArdle
Get Creative in the Space
Take your shots to the next level by utilizing the space. Climb on things to get different angles. Prepare for when the beat drops and smoke and confetti goes flying everywhere. When you are in the middle of the action, hold your camera up high to get a good vantage point.
Photo: Jamie McArdle
Story Telling
Your photos will stand out if they can tell a story. Capture more than just photos of the main dance floor. Take photos of the exterior entrance to the club or the DJ setting up on stage. Capture sneaky candids of people busting down with their dance moves and the other performers such as hired dancers. The story your pictures portray will make them more powerful.
Other Helpful Tips
If you need help getting your foot in the door, offer to shoot one night for free in order to build up your portfolio. The club has nothing to lose and will likely pay you in the future if they like the work you produced from that night.
Pretend your LCD screen is broken when annoying drunk people ask to see their photo.
Use a wireless flash behind and around the DJ to get cool lighting effects.
That’s it! Go out there and have fun shooting!