Photography of processions and parades may seem like an unusual subject and it is. But if you travel very likely you will encounter some pretty wonderful events that have procession associated with them. They are full of symbolism and marvelous visuals. But, they are tricky to do. By the way it doesn’t need to be an exotic location. It could be the 4th of July parade in your home town. Rather then have poor photos of your kids on that float wouldn’t it be great to have some really good photos?
Here are my tips.
1. Light is the most important. Make absolutely sure the sun is at your back. Then it will be lighting you subject. Also if you can find a spot that is in the shade from a building your photos will be fabulous especially if it is at high noon.
2. Background is equally important. It you have some gorgeous subject with a service station or business sign in the background. The photo is going to be less then stunning. It they are going around a corner that can be a wonderful place to capture. Strange things happen around corners. But is also has to have the elements of above.
3. Lenses. This is a great time to use a lens that can get you catch great shots. in close, like a 70 – 200. However you will want a more general lens to get the larger picture. You will be going back and forth so if you have 2 cameras that can save some hassle but then you have to haul them around.
4. Take lots of photos. By taking lots of photos you will catch those once in a life time images.
5. Parades and processions are mobile so you need to have a fast shutter speed but since most of them are in the day that shouldn’t be a problem.
6. Scout out the scene before hand and get there early for a good spot that takes into consideration all the above.
7. It this is a religious procession be very very respectful of the event. Do not jump into the procession to get that great shot. Since you have done no. 6 you will be in place to be able to do so without disturbing the participants.
8. If this is a parade you can bend some of these rules since people won’t mind it you are in front of them.
9. You may also want to move around and get a view from another angle but then you’ll loose your spot.
Have fun and enjoy.
Here are some samples of a procession in San Miguel de Allende MX. These are from my book: Tears from the Crown of Thorns. https://charlottebell.com/tears-from-the-crown-of-thorns/
