I've got a rather interesting photo shoot next Tuesday.

A hockey mom has contracted me to do a candid/reporter hockey photo shoot staring her son. She's arranged for me to start in the dressing room to get pics of all the kids getting their equipment on (after they have changed from their street clothes to their hockey undergarments). Then I've got a spot on the bench during the game.

I just wanted to ask the OSP community if anyone has done a similar shoot before and if anyone one has any interesting composition ideas.

Also what about lighting? I've only got a 430ex and some hardware store 500w work lamps – I do have a set of GI wireless triggers so I do have the option of moving my flash to a tripod in the corner of the dressing room or something similar. Any suggestions about the lighting for the dressing room?

Thanks in advance for all your comments, I'll be sure to report back after the shoot to share what I've learned.

What lenses are you using for the shoot, specifically what speed lenses?

I'll give you a complete rundown of my equipment:

Canon Digital Rebel (300d)
Canon 30mm f/1.8
Canon 100mm f/2.8 macro
Sigma 70-300 f/4-5.6
Canon 430ex
GI Wireless Triggers
Tripod
Reflector

I'll probably be using the 30mm for the dressing room, but I'm concerned that my 70-300 might give me problems during skating pictures.

You might want to consider renting a 70-200 2.8 IS. It will give you the reach to shoot much of the ice for the action shots, but it will also be fast enough, especially with the IS, to not need flash. If possible, could you get access to the rink prior to the shoot to test your lenses in the particular light of the rink?

I would actually be worried more about movement... if your shutter speed isn't fast enough, you won't be able to capture the action. You'll be using your 30 a lot I'm sure. I'd rend the 85 1.4 to get in a little closer and anything else that's long and fast.
I've actually taken my tripod out on the ice a few times... works well that way to keep your camera a little safer (though not during a busy part of the game)

For the dressing room, you can try the wireless triggers, but if that's not working so well, just bounce the flash. I've also had success shooting 'sniper style' with the flash gun in one hand and the camera in the other... it's easy to readjust your light when needed that way.

Have fun and let us know how they turn out!!

Thanks for the insight so far guys.

I've never rented a lens before - I'm actually planning on purshasing the Canon 70-200m f/2.8L IS - that is after I pick up Canon 40D.

I checked out one of my local camera stores (vistex) and they have one for $40 per day, I'm thinking about reserving it for the shoot.

I feel pretty comfortable getting the dressing room shots (I do a lot of that kind of photography) - I'm more concerned about the on ice action since I'm new to sports photography, do guys have any other tips about sports action shooting?