I was just starting in photography then. No formal training, just being a hobbyist, clicking here and there of things that interest me. All I get to practice was the Rule of Thirds. You can read more about that here. From that site it states:
The rule of thirds describes a basic compositional structure of a photograph. Taking any image, you can split it into 9 segments by using 3 vertical and 3 horizontal lines.
Remember that rules are not restrictive but this is a good place to start if you want taking better pictures or improve on your photography skills.
It gets technical. Just like any other thing, one must start at something and improve from there.
I didn't know anything about aperture, speed shutter, IOS, etc. I have an idea but still I don't know much. As you know, photography is a broad subject. There's landscape, portrait, street photography, food photography, macro photography and many more.
Photos that I took were posted in my social media account and friends are supportive enough to appreciate it.
Imagine my surprise then when one of my friends asked me to cover a private event. I will serve as a backup photographer to that event. Me as having no experience and no training whatsoever, I was hesitant. I was not confident about my skills and I only have a kit lens. I said all the excuse that I can tell. I initially said no until I was convinced to take the job. I was up for the experience anyway.
I and @Jaytee were part of the crew and staff behind the scenes. Jaytee and the others were assigned to help in setting up the venue. Others were assigned to help in the kitchen and food department.
It was a two-day event. All of us including the talents had a briefing the first day wherein we were told what to do, who to expect and such. We had to travel early from the city to the venue so that we will be there early to do what we had to do.
I on the other hand was introduced to the official photograph I was to work with. He asked me a few questions about my experience with photography and I said none. I just got my camera. I thought he would send me away but he was kind enough to say it was okay.
He then told me some of the things I have to do. The first day was more of preparation for the main event the next day. We practice with the dancers, band and other presenters. All the time my lead photographer was telling me where to position myself to get a good shot and the expected shot.
I did test shots and showed it to him which he seemed to like. Aside from the expected shots, he also encouraged me to take photos that might be of interest which I did.
The deal was at the end of the day, I had to surrender the memory card of my camera so I have no copy of the photos I took. I do have an extra memory card and that is what I used to take the photos that I posted here whenever I had the time to take pictures after the event. I would have loved to take more photos and switch memory cards but it would be counterproductive since I am on my feet all the time and one must be ready to capture moments.
It was lunchtime then and I was called by my fellow crew to eat and so I went and ate. I went back to the room where my lead photographer was and I was reprimanded by his team leader. Apparently, they were looking for me and couldn't find me as I was at the kitchen enjoying my meal. The team leader said I should have asked permission for there were things to cover still at that time and they needed backup I wasn't there. I stood there in the middle of the room full of other people. I didn't say anything but just apologized for that. My lead photographer then led me outside and talked to me about it and said he understood what I did and it's okay on his part. He even apologized for the way the team leader acted. He told me to just go ahead and keep shooting which I did.
It was a tiring event but such a fulfilling one. It was my first time to cover an event and I am glad that my lead was kind enough to give me directions and believe in me. Looking back, I know I have checked his works in social media and it was impressive. I saw some of his photos during the event and they were really great! Truly a professional in every essence of the word - not just in skill but also in how he dealt with others. I wish him every success!
I really have high regard to those who are kind and treat others nicely. We don't know all and we learn from others. We should teach others what we know and impart in them good deeds. Be a good example.
After the event, we went and checked out Ambuklao Dam.
Ambuklao Dam is part of a hydroelectric facility in Brgy. Ambuclao, Bokod, Benguet province in the Philippines. With maximum water storage capacity of 327,170,000 cubic metres, the facility, which is located 36 km from Baguio city, can produce up to 105 megawatts of electricity to Luzon grid.
Source: Wikipedia
The lead image and the first photo were all taken at the dam. It was the crew, the band and the cultural dancers who went there to enjoy the view and took photos.
Once the event was over, we had a good time and a bit of celebration for we successfully managed to finish the event. Some of us went to the restaurant where the band performs too. We were able to listen to them during the event but we get to hear more of them.
Days later, I was informed by my friend that the photos I took were great and that the lead photographer was able to work on those shots. Whatever happened with those, I don't know but to know that I did a good job, that was enough for me.
Do you remember your first? Did it hurt?
In this experience, my pride was hurt when I was embarrassed in front of other people but that's about it. In my defense, I didn't know everything or what should I do but me and the lead photographer are a team so I should've have at least told him where I was. However, I learned not to do that again.
We make mistakes and that's okay. Be challenged to learn and improve. Be ready and willing to be changed.
I have published a post about this experience in another platform. You can read more about that here.
If you ever pass Ambuklao Road, try to visit Ambuklao Dam.
i'm just wondering where did the photos that you took pero kinuha nila? they did not even showed it to you? anyway so proud of you.