How would I photograph a band in a railway car?

Question by LP: How would I photograph a band in a railway car?
I would like to photograph a band inside of an abandoned railway car near my home. However, the band wants the photo around dusk and I am having trouble figuring out which kind of lighting to set up so that the person inside of the car will not look too dark, nor the person in front too blown out due to long exposure to make the person in back visible. I do not have professional lighting equipment, I am a student, and would like practical, DIY solutions and suggestions. Thanks!

Best answer:

Answer by Michael
It’s a little bit difficult to say what exactly to do, given each situation is different. But, sight unseen, I would suggest having your band members facing towards what little natural light is left in the sky to minimize your exposure time…due to image blur from people moving. If you have access to a tripod, use it…or have your camera sitting on something to prevent camera shake. I assume you are shooting digital, so you can afford to take as many shots as possible. You can use a handheld light on your subject that will be in the open rail car. A decent (powerful) flashlight may be your ticket…and if angled correctly, may add a cool visual effect. If you find the light too harsh, diffuse it with a sheer fabric of some sort…women’s stockings work well. You may want to fool around before that night’s shoot and see what you can come up with before hand.

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