I have an e-session on Saturday. LOVE this couple...they're very laid back & just want to hang out & have fun. They're from Layton & want to go to SLC....They LOVE shopping...so we're going to the Gateway Mall..HOW FUN! We are going to stay there till evening...I have been DIEING to do some night time...city shots. Though I'm kinda nervous because I've only tried that once for practice & Logan doesn't have A TON of lights like SLC, BUT it kinda took forever!

Any tips on how to get some great shots with using street lights?

I shoot with a D200...will be using a 17-55mm f2.8 lens...I shoot manual mode....also have a SB800 flash!

Any tips/advice would be SOOOOOOOOOOO appreciated!!!!

Thanks!!!

Put that D200 in commander mode and get the flash off camera....

watch out for mall security, they may kick you out...

Don't be afraid of high ISO, embrace the noise....

Watch shadows and pools of light carefully to make sure you're highlighting what you want....

Do you have a faster lens? When I shoot ambient at night It's usually with f 1.8 or faster lenses.

Good luck, I'm sure others will throw out some tips.

Thanks soo much Bill......

I'm not a flash user....though I have the SB800...I rarely use it...I use it for the boring receptions I have...cause of horrible lighting, but that's it.

So can I just hold my flash in one hand & shoot with my other hand...I know it may be tuff, but I'm solo.

I do have a 50mm f1.8 lens. Should I use that instead?

I just get nervous trying something new cause I always feel like I'm inconveniencing the client. I know that the b/g already said..heck yeah I want to do this...but once you are in the situation...I don't want them being bored while I'm 'trying' to shoot at night. I will tell them to just make out while I'm getting ready!!!

Thanks soo much!!!!

Your SB-800 came with a little stand that you can set on any flat surface, you can also screw it to a light stand or tripod. I would suggest taking both lenses.

I would also suggest taking all that stuff out tonight and/or tomorrow night and practicing. Grab a friend or two to pose and try a bunch of stuff and see how it comes out.... Don't worry much about the poses and/or timing just focus on the lighting, seeing the available light and blending your flash with it (or not).

+1 Practice practice practice....then practice some more. Good luck!

Thanks sooo much you guys! I really appreciate it!

The good thing about this couple is that....we will get GREAT NORMAL shots..haha...during the day. The night time shots are just for fun & see how they turn out...it was my idea cause I want to practice it...so if it's a flop it won't be a big deal...I'll just need to keep practicing...I just needed tips on where to start...KWIM!!!

I appreciate all your help..THANK YOU!!!!

Have a look at strobist.com it's a great resource for off camera lighting

He uses old SB-25 strobes, I use SB 600 and you can use your SB800 too!