banquet photos

[bubba622]

i have been asked to photograph an awards banquet, i have a canon rebel xt body, a 580 ex speedlite and a choice between a canon 70-200, 2.8 lens or a canon efs 17-55 lens, both IS....not knowing ahead of time the setup or lighting of the venu, I'm wondering if someone with more experience can suggest some optimum or basic setting that should be used to get the most from the evening...thanks

[Bob Atkins]

Well, if the lens choice is either/or I'd certainly pick the 17-55/2.8IS. A 70-200 is pretty long for an indoor event unless you want closeups of people standing on the other side of the room.

As for camera settings, if you're unsure what you need there's nothing wrong with using Program mode and letting the camera do the hard work for you. I'd certainly shoot RAW or RAW+JPEG. That way you have more editing options and easier correction of white balance and exposure in the event that the camera doesn't make the best possible decision.

I'd also advise practicing before the event. If you can't duplicate the exact lighting, at least do some indor portraits and group shots and see how they look.

[mjperini]

bubba,
Make sure you understand what is expected of you by those who asked you to do the job. Getting on the same page early will save headaches later.
Do they want record photos of those getting awards at a podium or stage, if so the 70-200 might be helpful.-- at 70mm & f/2.8 you can bounce flash for a pleasing look and set up for a view of the podium.
Do they want grip & grins , table shots, candids, all of the above? 17-55 works here.
How big is the room? how dark will the room be during the ceremony. Some banquet halls are as dark as caves, which can cause focus problems when you're outside the AF assist distance. Is the ceiling black or a strong color (no good for bounce)
A dark room means your flaash will be doing full dumps at some distances so recycle time can be impacted, and Battery life will be shorter.
This is another reason to use the 17-55 and stay closer.
None of these concerns,or all of them may apply to your venue, by knowing what to expect, and duplicating those conditions someplace where you can practice, even just a couple dozen shots  will keep you prepared, confident, and professional.
Good Luck