Will you be travelling to Washington D.C. for the historic inauguration of Barack Obama? Taking your camera? Of course you are!
Although I will not be making this trip, if I were, I know exactly which types of images I would try to capture. Use the points in this post along with my 12-Step Plan to Great Photo Composition.
1. Don't carry alot of camera gear
It will be a long day, so make it a light load to carry. Take a bag that snaps around your waist. Remember to take as many memory cards as possible, and purchase, and charge your camera's batteries.
2. Focus on the crowd
First of all, I realize that with a massive amount of security it wouldn't be possible to get near Mr. Obama. Personally, I wouldn't focus on trying to snap many photos of the new President. With all the excitement surrounding this event, I would rather suggest capturing the faces of those folks in the crowd, or on the streets of Washington.
3. Tell a story with the images shot at the event
Include a smiling face, American flags, the Capitol dome or other significant structures. Zoom in to include as much detail as possible. And, don't forget to zoom out for a few wide angle shots of the crowds of attendees. Search out a location to capture the crowd from different angles or perspectives. Include "Obama", and "Yes We Can" signs as part of the image along with other details such as a smiling child or flag.
4. Make a plan, and develop a shot list in advance
Think about your strategy in advance. Know which details you will be searching for when you arrive. Take time for a short breather to gain composure and to gather your thoughts, then start snapping! Specifically on my shot list would be images of smiling people of all races
enjoying the moment. And, take lots of photos of children on this day.
Remember to look for great shots in reflections such as in windows and water.
Don't forget to look above and behind you!
5. Don't wait for the photo op to come to you...Go find it!
Think about it. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to capture the events of history. The inauguration will be full of incredible photo opportunities, but they will not all come to you...search out the shots by walking around, looking down side streets and parking areas. Canvas the event throughout the day, taking shots in the morning (the requisite 'Dawn of a New Day' shot), during the inauguration and also during 'magic hour'.
6. Chronicle your day
Create a music slideshow including the best images from your adventure to share with family, friends and online. Slideshows like this add more emotion and drama rather than viewing a single, static image.
Now is your time to shine, and to capture a little history...plan your day and shoot in advance...taking time to find the best vantage points to shoot certain subjects.
Capture the excitement and the vibe of those who came to be part of history.
Can you add any additional ideas to help other readers? Leave a comment, or submit links after the inauguration where we can view your photos having used the tips contained in this post.
