Return-Path: X-Scanned-By: RAE MPP/Clamd http://raeinternet.com/mpp X-Scanned-By: This message was scanned by MPP Lite Edition (www.messagepartners.com)! X-Real-To: stagecraftlist [at] theatrical.net Received: by prxy.net (CommuniGate Pro PIPE 4.2.10) with PIPE id 24886876; Fri, 30 Sep 2005 03:00:54 -0700 X-ListServer: CommuniGate Pro LIST 4.2.10 List-Unsubscribe: List-ID: Message-ID: From: "Stagecraft" Sender: "Stagecraft" To: "Stagecraft" Precedence: list Subject: Stagecraft Digest #535 Date: Fri, 30 Sep 2005 03:00:09 -0700 MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="ISO-8859-1" Content-Disposition: inline X-Spam-Checker-Version: SpamAssassin 3.0.4 (2005-06-05) on prxy.net X-Spam-Level: X-Spam-Status: No, score=-5.7 required=5.0 tests=ALL_TRUSTED,AWL,BAYES_00 autolearn=unavailable version=3.0.4 X-TFF-CGPSA-Version: 1.4f2 X-prxy-Spam-Filter: Scanned For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see --------------------------------------------------- Stagecraft Digest, Issue #535 1. Re: Photographing shows... by "LES LIND" 2. Top Ten Stagecraft Books Survey Results by "Jonathan S. Deull" 3. Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books Survey Results by "Paul Schreiner" 4. Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books Survey Results by "ladesigners [at] juno.com" 5. Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books by Mike Katz 6. Re: Photographing shows... by "Jim at TheatreWireless.com" 7. Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books Survey Results by Delbert Hall 8. Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books by "Stephen E. Rees" 9. FW: Financial managment software... by "Steve Jones" 10. Replacement for a DDS 9800 by "Charles J Korecki" 11. Re: Financial managment software... by Bruce Purdy 12. Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books Survey Results by "Steven Haworth" 13. Re: 3 phase 4 wire system question by "Davis, Thomas J" 14. Re: Replacement for a DDS 9800 by seanrmc [at] earthlink.net 15. Re: Replacement for a DDS 9800 by "Jeffrey E. Salzberg" 16. Re: Financial managment software... by Andrew Vance 17. New LRLR Website (OT?) by Bill Sapsis 18. Re: Photographing shows... by Steve Larson 19. Re: Photographing shows... by "Storms, Randy" 20. Re: New LRLR Website (OT?) by "Stephen E. Rees" 21. Re: Photographing shows... by Steve Larson 22. Re: Photographing shows... by "LES LIND" 23. Re: Photographing shows... by "C. Andrew Dunning" 24. Re: Photographing shows... by Shelly A Ford 25. "School Dude" by "Storms, Randy" 26. Re: Photographing shows... by Steve Larson 27. Re: Photographing shows... by Phil Johnson 28. Re: Photographing shows... by Steve Larson 29. Re: Photographing shows... by "Jim at TheatreWireless.com" 30. Re: New LRLR Website (OT?) by Bill Sapsis 31. Re: "School Dude" by "LES LIND" 32. Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books by "Michael Finney" 33. Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books by Mick Alderson 34. Re: Photographing shows... by FrankWood95 [at] aol.com 35. Re: Photographing shows... by Steve Larson 36. Re: Photographing shows... by FrankWood95 [at] aol.com 37. Re: Photographing shows... by Shelly A Ford 38. Re: Photographing shows... by Steve Larson 39. ticket software (a bit off topic, but I need some help) by "Davis, Thomas J" 40. Re: Photographing shows... by Greg Williams 41. Re: ticket software (a bit off topic, but I need some help) by "Steve Jones" 42. Re: ticket software (a bit off topic, but I need some help) by "Brian Busch" 43. Re: Photographing shows... by FrankWood95 [at] aol.com 44. Re: Photographing shows... by "C. Andrew Dunning" 45. Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books by MissWisc [at] aol.com 46. Re: ticket software (a bit off topic, but I need some help) by Steve Larson 47. Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books Survey Results by Stuart Wheaton 48. "OT: our town" movie by "Jared Fortney" 49. Re: Photographing shows... by Bruce Purdy 50. Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books by "ladesigners [at] juno.com" *** Please update the subject line of your reply to use the subject *** line of the message you are replying to! Please only reply to *** one message subject in each reply. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message-Id: Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 07:38:10 -0400 From: "LES LIND" Subject: Re: Photographing shows... You'll have to use a fast film if the lighting is low, and slow shutter speeds. The photos will show some grain but should be usable. I used to shoot 400 ASA (I think) slide film and have it push processed. They looked...artsie... The grain structures of the faster films is much improved now so push processing, which they still do, isn't necessary. I'd suggest a camera support of some sort; tripod, monopod, prosecnium wall, etc.. High speed films might only be found at at "camera shop" now and aren't that much more than expensive. Where I get my supplies a roll of 36 exp 1600 ASA film is $7.71. 800 ASA is probably a few cents cheaper. They have a 3200 ASA available in B&W only. Les Les Lind, TD NHS Dramatics Northeastern High School Manchester, PA ------------------------------ From: "Jonathan S. Deull" Subject: Top Ten Stagecraft Books Survey Results Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 07:58:24 -0400 Message-ID: ...Could you, or SOMEBODY publish a list of the most popular titles, as suggested by a consensus of the respondents on the Stagecraft List? /s/ Richard . . . I will do it once the dust settles. Jonathan ------------------------------ Subject: RE: Top Ten Stagecraft Books Survey Results Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 08:43:58 -0400 Message-ID: <6E497ADB607656479C24E6D7BF6B505A0196C991 [at] exchange.rmwc.edu> From: "Paul Schreiner" > ...Could you, or SOMEBODY publish a list of the most popular=20 > titles, as suggested by a consensus of the respondents on the=20 > Stagecraft List? /s/ Richard . . .=20 Well, since I've only mentioned one to add to the discussion, here'd be my votes: Backstage Handbook (Paul Carter) Scene Design and Stage Lighting (Parker, Wolf, and Block) Stage Rigging (Jay Glerum) Technical Design Solutions for Theatre Vol. 1 & 2 (Sammler/Harvey) Structures (J. E. Gordon) Pocket Ref (Glover) Stage Directions Theatre Resource Directory Period Style for the Theatre (Russell) The Four Books of Architecture (Palladio) CAMEO Dictionary of Creative Audio Terms Additionally, my (non-exhaustive) votes catalog-wise: Grainger Rose Brand Full Compass Rosco/Apollo/every other gobo manufacturer Digi-Key (for those hard-to-find electronic parts) ------------------------------ From: "ladesigners [at] juno.com" Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 12:50:04 GMT Subject: Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books Survey Results Message-Id: <20050929.055013.19411.638598 [at] webmail28.lax.untd.com> Thank You! /s/ Richard ______________ ...Could you, or SOMEBODY publish a list of the most popular titles, as suggested by a consensus of the respondents on the Stagecraft List? /s/ Richard . . . I will do it once the dust settles. Jonathan ------------------------------ Message-ID: <7cd95e18050929055218b30fd0 [at] mail.gmail.com> Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 08:52:37 -0400 From: Mike Katz Reply-To: Mike Katz Subject: Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books In-Reply-To: References: I have and use the Pocket Ref constantly, But I would sugest folks take a look at its sibling, also published by sequoia press Handy Man in your Pocket. It is also by Glover & Young and is a bit more construction oriente. It still has lots of esoteric facts, but more are useful to us than the ones in Pocket Ref Mike > >> Steve Rees wrote: I nominate (small snip) The Pocket Ref, Glover << > > That is a mighty amazing little book, The Pocket Ref. It may very well > contain the most information I thought I could ever purchase for $8.95. > Anyone carrying around a Backstage Handbook may think about keeping a > copy of The Pocket Ref handy as well. > > -Scott > TTS > EKU > > -- Mike Katz Technical Director MIT Theater Arts 617.253.0824 ------------------------------ From: "Jim at TheatreWireless.com" Subject: RE: Photographing shows... Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 08:55:25 -0400 In-Reply-To: Message-Id: <20050929125533.OCMP26550.tomts20-srv.bellnexxia.net [at] p3m866> I've gone entirely digital now, but I used to get good results with Agfa 800 ASA print film. The grain seems comparable to typical 400 ASA films. In general, slide film will have a finer grain than print film and is therefore recommended. The more light you can get to the film, the better. Many people don't realize how much light is lost in lenses that have many glass elements. Thus, a big and versatile zoom lens is not the best choice for low light work. A good quality 50mm (normal) lens will probably do the job. You will definitely need a tripod. Jim > High speed films might only be found at at "camera shop" now > and aren't that much more than expensive. Where I get my > supplies a roll of 36 exp 1600 ASA film is $7.71. 800 ASA is > probably a few cents cheaper. ------------------------------ Message-ID: Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 09:07:25 -0400 From: Delbert Hall Reply-To: Delbert Hall Subject: Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books Survey Results In-Reply-To: References: I would add the following to the list: The Wire Rope Manual The Complete Rigger's Apprentice - Toss The Book of Knots - Budworth -- Delbert L. Hall ZFX -Technical Coordinator for Classic Productions Phone: 714-585-7070 ------------------------------ Message-ID: <433BE751.5000205 [at] fredonia.edu> Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 09:08:33 -0400 From: "Stephen E. Rees" Reply-To: Rees [at] fredonia.edu Subject: Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books References:

Hi Michael, Thanks for this info. I ordered one just now. Steve Mike Katz wrote: > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > --------------------------------------------------- > > I have and use the Pocket Ref constantly, But I would sugest folks > take a look at its sibling, also published by sequoia press Handy Man > in your Pocket. [snip] ------------------------------ From: "Steve Jones" Subject: FW: Financial managment software... Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 08:09:32 -0500 Organization: Plaza Theatre Message-ID: Never heard any replies on this, so thought I would repost. Thanks! Steve ************************************* Steve Jones, Director Plaza Theatre 115 E. Main Street Glasgow, KY 42141 Voice: (270) 361-2101 Fax: (270) 651-2511 http://www.glasgowplazatheatre.org -----Original Message----- From: Stagecraft [mailto:stagecraft [at] theatrical.net] On Behalf Of Steve Jones Sent: Friday, September 16, 2005 10:14 AM To: Stagecraft Subject: Financial managment software... For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see --------------------------------------------------- So what do any of you use to manage your books? Especially those facility managers. We are looking at QuickBooks Premiere Nonprofit and Peachtree Accounting Premium for Nonprofits. We are growing beyond just using Excel. Thanks! Steve ************************************* Steve Jones, Director Plaza Theatre 115 E. Main Street Glasgow, KY 42141 Voice: (270) 361-2101 Fax: (270) 651-2511 http://www.glasgowplazatheatre.org ------------------------------ Message-ID: From: "Charles J Korecki" Subject: Replacement for a DDS 9800 Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 09:12:47 -0400 Our small studio classroom space is using a much abused NSI DDS 9800 with an edison panel on the back. It has been repaired several times and I think the time may have come to replace it. We only have the one module (i.e. 8 channels at 2.4 K a piece). The NSI has served us well and I am more than willing to purchase a new one. Before I do, however, I was wondering if anyone on the list can recommend any other dimmers I should be considering. We have been using an MC 1616 controller which runs on microplex. If we were to get a dimmer that doesn't use microplex, I would probably have to look into getting a small lighting controller as well. Thanks for your input! Charles Korecki Cuyahoga Falls city Schools ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 09:26:49 -0400 Subject: Re: Financial managment software... From: Bruce Purdy Message-ID: In-Reply-To: > So what do any of you use to manage your books? Especially those facility > managers. We use Quickbooks. Bruce -- Bruce Purdy Technical Director Smith Opera House ------------------------------ Subject: RE: Top Ten Stagecraft Books Survey Results Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 08:31:30 -0500 Message-ID: <5D5187063B6B8B46A99E8C0D36E0EB097B5C7D [at] danube.river.idm.com> From: "Steven Haworth" I have a list of lighting-related books on my site, and I'll update that = w/any from this list that I've missed. For now, you can see the current = list here: http://www.stagelights.info I'm not sure I'll add set- or prop-related books, as I'm trying to keep = my site focused just on lighting. GREAT list, though! - Steven (sjh [at] idm.com) --------------------------- http://www.stagelights.info ------------------------------ Subject: RE: 3 phase 4 wire system question Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 09:34:54 -0400 Message-ID: <3CF87682970858499CA56707FB1F092B0A9262 [at] wscc-s-003000.westshore.edu> From: "Davis, Thomas J" I will bow to Frank's superior knowledge of the physics of 3-phase power. Perhaps I should run over and take the electrical license class they teach on the other side of the campus. I suspect that several of us are saying essentially the same thing, but there are differences in both terminology and local codes between the east and west coasts of the US, not to mention between the US, Canada and Great Britain. And my coursework on this is 30 years old. I think we do agree, however, that the ground should not be treated as a neutral, and that the question of rewiring or "break-out" of the 3-phase receptacle is best put to a qualified electrician familiar with local codes. In the theater, as many of us have discovered the hard way, some very strange things are done with electricity. But horror stories on that are probably best left to another thread... Tom D.=20 -----Original Message----- From: Stagecraft [mailto:stagecraft [at] theatrical.net] On Behalf Of FrankWood95 [at] aol.com Sent: Wednesday, September 28, 2005 6:31 PM To: Stagecraft Subject: Re: 3 phase 4 wire system question For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see --------------------------------------------------- In a message dated 28/09/05 19:37:54 GMT Daylight Time, TJDavis [at] westshore.edu=20 writes: The "delta" or > "wild" leg is only 90degrees out of phase with the others, and to get > 240 when used with one of the others, needs to be a higher voltage. The phase relationships are mis-stated, too. It is the essence of all=20 three-phase supplies that the three legs are 120 degrees apart. Always, with real=20 three-phase. This is what makes it work. None of them should have a ground=20 reference. It is the most economical way to distribute high-voltage power;=20 three-phase detla. Count the wires on power pylons. Three, or maybe six. At the sub-station, there is a delta-to-star transformer, which brings it=20 down to something manageable, and creates a neutral. From here on it's three=20 phase star. Whatever your local line voltage to neutral is. The neutral is often=20 grounded at the sub-station..... Frank Wood ------------------------------ Message-ID: <1978683.1128001783075.JavaMail.root [at] elwamui-little.atl.sa.earthlink.net> Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 09:49:43 -0400 (GMT-04:00) From: seanrmc [at] earthlink.net Reply-To: seanrmc [at] earthlink.net Subject: Re: Replacement for a DDS 9800 You should look at the ETC Smartfade/Smartpack system.... Or, the Leprechaun edison 6 packs (I don't remember the model number). I spent several months with them out on tour and they really did work like champs. We had the DMX versions, though they do make other versions (analog, and I think microplex). What is your budget range, and how many dimmers would you like to have? Do they have to be 2.4kw per dimmer, or would lower capacity/more control be better for you situation? --Sean Sean R. McCarthy seanrmc [at] earthlink.net -----Original Message----- From: Charles J Korecki Our small studio classroom space is using a much abused NSI DDS 9800 with an edison panel on the back. It has been repaired several times and I think the time may have come to replace it. Charles Korecki Cuyahoga Falls city Schools ------------------------------ Reply-To: From: "Jeffrey E. Salzberg" Subject: RE: Replacement for a DDS 9800 Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 09:50:06 -0400 Message-ID: <000001c5c4fc$b67ee7a0$6701a8c0 [at] Dell> In-Reply-To: > We have been using an MC 1616 controller which runs on > microplex. If we > were to get a dimmer that doesn't use microplex, I would > probably have to > look into getting a small lighting controller as well. I have no recommendation to make, other than to note that E-Bay often has Microplex/DMX convertors. ------------------------------ In-Reply-To: References: Message-Id: From: Andrew Vance Subject: Re: Financial managment software... Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 09:08:10 -0500 On 29 Sep, 2005, at 08:09, Steve Jones wrote: > So what do any of you use to manage your books? Especially those > facility > managers. Our accounting office uses Peachtree. -- Sincerely, Andrew Vance atvanceld [at] gmail.com ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 10:31:51 -0400 Subject: New LRLR Website (OT?) From: Bill Sapsis Message-ID: In-Reply-To: Greetings campers. I've got news from the Long Reach Long Riders. For your viewing pleasure I am happy to announce the new Long Reach Long Rider website: As we announced after the 2nd ride, this is now an annual event and we're having way too much fun to keep it all to ourselves. The destination is Rapid City, SD once again, but the route has changed a bit. Greg has worked his magic and we're off the highway for almost the entire trip. The site has the route, photos and info on the riders from trips 1 & 2. So, if you're thinking about joining us this time around, check it out and see if you can work us into your schedule. We had 12 riders last year and we'd love to double that number this year. C'mon, it'll be fun! Thanks Be well Bill www.sapsis-rigging.com 800.727.7471 800.292.3851 fax 267.278.4561 mobile ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 10:31:13 -0400 Subject: Re: Photographing shows... From: Steve Larson Message-ID: In-Reply-To: If you are using print film, it is probably rated for outdoor light. You can compensate with a filter. The faster the film (higher ISO #), the more grain. Things have improved over the years though. There used to be Kodak slide films rated for indoor incandescent lighting and it could be pushed to a faster speed and compensated in development. A good photo store is your best choice. Avoid mall photo stores, the personnel there generally aren't quality photographers. The store I frequent is staffed by photographers who also shoot professionally. I trust them and their advice. Try to use a lens that is fast, i.e., f1.8, f2.8. Most zooms are not fast unless you spend a lot of money on them. I use f2.8 lenses, an f2.8 24-120 zoom and an f2.8 70-200 zoom. These are Nikon lenses on a D100 digital camera. They are also vibration reduction lenses. I generally will shoot at all tech/dress rehearsals. I try to avoid lengthy photo calls, though with a film camera, this is often the only way to shoot. I hate posed shots; I prefer to shoot the action live. Try to avoid posed shots that look like they are what we call "community-theatre photography". They look too staged and too hokie. I will shoot 300-400 shots per night. I don't shoot a lot of full stage shots. I'm not building a portfolio after 30 years in the business. I also shoot professionally and sell about $300 worth of prints a month. I prefer medium to close shots that show the actors' faces. These also enlarge quite well for lobby shots and publicity photos. Our lobby gallery features montages of shots from shows. One show per 13 x 19 print, which I print on an Epson 1280 printer. I then pick the best shots and burn them to a CD for a cast/crew breakaleg. With most good quality digital cameras you can set the white balance to incandescent, but I have found that using other settings can often produce a better shot depending upon the gel colors used and the amount of light onstage. A tripod is a must. You just can't get the great shot hand holding shots in dim light. Experience and experimentation is great. You'll get better the more you shoot. With higher end digital cameras you can also get information on the LCD screen and check what speed and f/stop you actually used. This info is also available in the Browse section of Photoshop, which is where all my shots end up. Generally the only correction I will make to a shot is to color correct it back to what the shot looked like onstage. Steve ------------------------------ Subject: RE: Photographing shows... Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 07:39:24 -0700 Message-ID: <555928311F8B2943B65FC7197942C3B70538C050 [at] es1.bsdnet.wednet.edu> From: "Storms, Randy" >I then pick the best shots and burn them to a CD for >a cast/crew breakaleg. =20 _________________________________ A "breakaleg"...? -- r. Randy Storms rstorms [at] bham.wednet.edu ------------------------------ Message-ID: <433BFED6.5090403 [at] fredonia.edu> Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 10:48:54 -0400 From: "Stephen E. Rees" Reply-To: Rees [at] fredonia.edu Subject: Re: New LRLR Website (OT?) References: Jeez, Bill. The descriptions of the route read just like the ads for Tauck Tours or some cruise line! Makes one want to loose weight and gain a bike. Enjoy! Steve Bill Sapsis wrote: > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > --------------------------------------------------- > > Greetings campers. I've got news from the Long Reach Long Riders. For your > viewing pleasure I am happy to announce the new Long Reach Long Rider > website: > > > > As we announced after the 2nd ride, this is now an annual event and we're > having way too much fun to keep it all to ourselves. The destination is > Rapid City, SD once again, but the route has changed a bit. Greg has worked > his magic and we're off the highway for almost the entire trip. > > The site has the route, photos and info on the riders from trips 1 & 2. So, > if you're thinking about joining us this time around, check it out and see > if you can work us into your schedule. We had 12 riders last year and we'd > love to double that number this year. > > C'mon, it'll be fun! > > Thanks > Be well > Bill > www.sapsis-rigging.com > 800.727.7471 > 800.292.3851 fax > 267.278.4561 mobile > > > > > > > ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 11:00:42 -0400 Subject: Re: Photographing shows... From: Steve Larson Message-ID: In-Reply-To: Yes. It has been customary in many theatre circles that actors give breakaleg gifts to each other. I always got stuff from the actors but hated to shop for stuff that would end up in yard sales later. I choose to give the actors/crew something that they will most likely keep and treasure. A complete photo CD of the show, from rehearsals to performance. They vary from show to show, depending upon what I choose to shoot. For our big annual production of A Christmas Carol, I actually sell double photo CDs of the memories of the show. The author/director/ star of the show gave me permission. It amounts to a nice Christmas present to me financially. Steve > From: "Storms, Randy" > Reply-To: "Stagecraft" > Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 07:39:24 -0700 > To: "Stagecraft" > Subject: Re: Photographing shows... > > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > --------------------------------------------------- > > >> I then pick the best shots and burn them to a CD for >> a cast/crew breakaleg. > > _________________________________ > > A "breakaleg"...? > > -- r. > > Randy Storms > rstorms [at] bham.wednet.edu > ------------------------------ Message-Id: Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 11:33:26 -0400 From: "LES LIND" Subject: Re: Photographing shows... What size files do you usually shoot? High - low res. small, medium, large? Les Lind, TD NHS Dramatics Northeastern High School Manchester, PA ------------------------------ Reply-To: From: "C. Andrew Dunning" Cc: jasonclights [at] gmail.com ('Jason Cowperthwaite') Subject: RE: Photographing shows... Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 10:40:09 -0500 Organization: Landru Design In-Reply-To: Message-ID: Jason - >I am looking for some >tips and tricks to make sure these pictures turn out useable. I use Fuji Press 400 w. decent results. I found the faster films to be way too grainy and the slower films to have too much blurring. 400 seems to be the best balance. I don't use any filters when shooting. I do color correction after-the-fact - either when processing or in Photoshop. This film has given me decent results. I get it from B&H for less than $2US a roll. I use an older Canon EOS and shoot in Aperture-priority mode w. a 28-105/3.5-4.5 lens. The vast majority of my shooting is from FOH using a remote trigger w. the camera on a tripod. Though it may be overly simple for some folks, I simply open the aperture as wide as it will go at a given zoom setting and let the camera do the math for time. C. Andrew Dunning Landru Design - Nashville, TN - cad [at] landrudesign.com www.landrudesign.com ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 11:58:08 -0400 (EDT) From: Shelly A Ford Subject: Re: Photographing shows... Cc: cad [at] landrudesign.com Message-id: <1633109.1128009488899.JavaMail.sford4 [at] aug.edu> I used 64speed color print film, the slowest shutter speed on my automatic camera (I think it's setting is actually for 100 speed film), and a TRIPOD. I ask the lab to push process. I have yet to lose a show doig it this way. Shelly Ford C. Andrew Dunning wrote: >For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see >--------------------------------------------------- > >Jason - > >>I am looking for some >>tips and tricks to make sure these pictures turn out useable. > >I use Fuji Press 400 w. decent results. I found the faster films to be way >too grainy and the slower films to have too much blurring. 400 seems to be >the best balance. > >I don't use any filters when shooting. I do color correction after-the-fact >- either when processing or in Photoshop. This film has given me decent >results. I get it from B&H for less than $2US a roll. > >I use an older Canon EOS and shoot in Aperture-priority mode w. a >28-105/3.5-4.5 lens. The vast majority of my shooting is from FOH using a >remote trigger w. the camera on a tripod. Though it may be overly simple >for some folks, I simply open the aperture as wide as it will go at a given >zoom setting and let the camera do the math for time. > >C. Andrew Dunning >Landru Design >- >Nashville, TN >- >cad [at] landrudesign.com >www.landrudesign.com > > > ------------------------------ Subject: "School Dude" Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 09:00:14 -0700 Message-ID: <555928311F8B2943B65FC7197942C3B70538C052 [at] es1.bsdnet.wednet.edu> From: "Storms, Randy" Any listers presently using the web-based "School Dude" facility = scheduling system? It just got dropped on us, and so far, we hate it... -- r. Randy Storms rstorms [at] bham.wednet.edu ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 11:58:53 -0400 Subject: Re: Photographing shows... From: Steve Larson Message-ID: In-Reply-To: I shoot high res, large format. I set up my computer and Photoshop to import them as JPEGs so I don't have to fuss with Pictureviewer. 300 dpi shots that come in at 6.67" x 10". Steve > From: "LES LIND" > Reply-To: "Stagecraft" > Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 11:33:26 -0400 > To: "Stagecraft" > Subject: Re: Photographing shows... > > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > --------------------------------------------------- > > What size files do you usually shoot? High - low res. small, medium, > large? > > Les Lind, TD > NHS Dramatics > Northeastern High School > Manchester, PA > > ------------------------------ In-Reply-To: References: Message-Id: <222a2aa36892126d19bdb22fec62062e [at] mail.tamucc.edu> From: Phil Johnson Subject: Re: Photographing shows... Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 11:03:36 -0500 > There are several options for photographing shows 1. Buy film rated for tungsten lighting. Slide film is available and you don't have to push it. The yellowish quality of prints is due to the shift caused by daylight film processing a different color temp of light. Buy tungsten film. It is for TV-Film lights and stage lights have a bit different quality than theatre lights but still better than the yellow of daylight. Buy a tungsten filter for your camera lens. It will convert the light sufficiently for your use. It won't matter what daylight or regular film you use. Use a digital camera and do a color adjustment with photoshop or some other program. It will take some time. Play with exposures and settings. Regardless of what you use, the closer you can be to the subject the better the film will be. Shooting to get the whole stage framed may wash out the images and detail. . Finally, set up a photo shoot for tech and archival. Don't do it at strike, Make a decision to make time to shoot. That works the best. Philip Johnson Designer/Technical Director Texas A & M -Corpus Christi ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 12:00:28 -0400 Subject: Re: Photographing shows... From: Steve Larson Message-ID: In-Reply-To: How does a low light shot with some action look at 8 x 10? Steve > From: Shelly A Ford > Reply-To: "Stagecraft" > Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 11:58:08 -0400 (EDT) > To: "Stagecraft" > Cc: cad [at] landrudesign.com > Subject: Re: Photographing shows... > > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > --------------------------------------------------- > > I used 64speed color print film, the slowest shutter speed on my > automatic camera (I think it's setting is actually for 100 speed film), > and a TRIPOD. I ask the lab to push process. I have yet to lose a show > doig it this way. > Shelly Ford ------------------------------ From: "Jim at TheatreWireless.com" Subject: RE: Photographing shows... Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 12:04:31 -0400 In-Reply-To: Message-Id: <20050929160438.TCQJ16985.tomts36-srv.bellnexxia.net [at] p3m866> I've been using Nikon RAW mode, with a 80x 1GB CF Card. Then I do all processing in Photoshop, saving as jpg or tiff, and sometimes reducing the file size. Jim > What size files do you usually shoot? High - low res. small, > medium, large? ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 12:22:07 -0400 Subject: Re: New LRLR Website (OT?) From: Bill Sapsis Message-ID: In-Reply-To: Hey Steve. You don't even have to lose weight. Just get a bigger bike! <> Bill S. www.sapsis-rigging.com 800.727.7471 800.292.3851 fax 267.278.4561 mobile "Join the Long Reach Long Riders on our 3rd annual cross country charity motorcycle ride -- July 9 - 18, 2006" On 9/29/05 10:48 AM, "Stephen E. Rees" wrote: > Jeez, Bill. The descriptions of the route read just like the ads for > Tauck Tours or some cruise line! Makes one want to loose weight and > gain a bike. ------------------------------ Message-Id: Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 12:24:48 -0400 From: "LES LIND" Subject: Re: "School Dude" Our school district subscribes to the maintenance and technology portions of School Dude. I use it in my day job to enter work orders for our maintenance crew to usually fix something. Not sure how the tech dept. uses it. Les Lind, TD NHS Dramatics Northeastern High School Manchester, PA ------------------------------ Subject: Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 09:47:15 -0700 Message-ID: From: "Michael Finney" Two that I haven't seen mentioned yet that have proud places on my bookshelf: "The Ultimate Visual Dictionary" (DK Publishing, ISDN 0-7894-2874-1) Pictures of all sorts of things, all with their components properly labeled. "Illustrated Dictionary of Architecture" (Ernest Burden, ISDN 0-07-137529-5) Same thing, but specific for architecture. Not *strictly* stagecraft, but very, very handy whenever you need to find the details of something a designer describes with just 2 words... And, of course, the one thing I never go on an international project without: the McMaster-Carr catalog (also known as the "yellow construction translator" to several of my crews). It's always amazing how many times the pictures (or specs) in there get used on international construction jobs because the translator (for some reason!) doesn't know the specialized construction terms! BTW: I'm with Richard - it would be *great* if the suggestions were magically compiled! I'd love to shift some of my books home and buy the office a basic library.... =20 Michael Finney Thinkwell Design & Production mfinney [at] thinkwelldesign.com www.thinkwelldesign.com =20 =20 ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 11:55:45 -0500 From: Mick Alderson Subject: Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books Message-id: > From: Stagecraft [mailto:stagecraft [at] theatrical.net] On Behalf Of Davis, > Thomas J > > Maybe I missed it, but has anyone so far mentioned Jean Rosenthal's > "Magic of Light"? (From which, many years ago, a certain teenager > learned the difference between "lighting a show" and "designing > lighting > for a show.") Not fair! "Magic of Light" hasn't been available for years, (since just BEFORE I decided I wanted a copy)! $150+ for used is a little over my budget. Mick Alderson TD, Fredric March Theatre University of Wisconsin Oshkosh alderson [at] uwosh.edu ------------------------------ From: FrankWood95 [at] aol.com Message-ID: <75.4e811ca6.306d7828 [at] aol.com> Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 13:02:32 EDT Subject: Re: Photographing shows... In a message dated 29/09/05 03:28:49 GMT Daylight Time, jasonclights [at] gmail.com writes: > I am about to go into tech for a show and would like to take my own > production photographs. I know that photographing under stage > light... especially dim stage light is rather different than regular > photography, so I am looking for some tips and tricks to make sure > these pictures turn out useable. Go to http://www.oswego.edu/Acad_Dept/a_and_s/theatre/photoart.html This is a long and informative article on the topic. Frank Wood ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 13:15:16 -0400 Subject: Re: Photographing shows... From: Steve Larson Message-ID: In-Reply-To: Quoted from the article- "There is nothing wrong with a video documentation of your production". I believe we crossed that road a month or so back. Steve > From: FrankWood95 [at] aol.com > Reply-To: "Stagecraft" > Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 13:02:32 EDT > To: "Stagecraft" > Subject: Re: Photographing shows... > > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > --------------------------------------------------- > > In a message dated 29/09/05 03:28:49 GMT Daylight Time, > jasonclights [at] gmail.com writes: > >> I am about to go into tech for a show and would like to take my own >> production photographs. I know that photographing under stage >> light... especially dim stage light is rather different than regular >> photography, so I am looking for some tips and tricks to make sure >> these pictures turn out useable. > > Go to http://www.oswego.edu/Acad_Dept/a_and_s/theatre/photoart.html > > This is a long and informative article on the topic. > > Frank Wood ------------------------------ From: FrankWood95 [at] aol.com Message-ID: Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 13:29:05 EDT Subject: Re: Photographing shows... In a message dated 29/09/05 13:57:20 GMT Daylight Time, stagecraft [at] theatrewireless.com writes: > The more light you can get to the film, the better. Many people don't > realize how much light is lost in lenses that have many glass elements. > Thus, a big and versatile zoom lens is not the best choice for low light > work. A good quality 50mm (normal) lens will probably do the job. Agreed. I have three cameras, only one of which is any good for stage work. It's an elderly Praktica, but among the lenses I have for it are an 80mm f/1.8, a 50mm f/1.8, and a 35mm f/2.4. These work well for me, with the fastest colour film I can find, and an 82B filter to achieve some colour correction, since most print films are daylight balanced. Further correction can be applied when I scan them in to my computer. Zoom lenses are no good, unless you pay the earth for them, and nor are most long telephoto lenses. I was once fortunate enough to be able to borrow a 135mm f/2.8 lens, and a 180mm f/2.8 lens. But, maximum aperture is all-important. I would suggest that telling any automatic exposure system lies about the film speed, too, would be a good idea. I used to shoot on an 800ASA film from Kodak, but tell the camera that it was 1600ASA. This worked for me, and took care of the high contrast lighting I normally do. Experiments will be needed. A tripod and cable release are good, too. It's not very mobile, though. As I have a horseshoe shaped auditorium to contend with, I use a monopod. Less effective, but more mobile. With the 135mm and 180mm lenses, a solid tripod is essential. Frank Wood ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 13:55:02 -0400 (EDT) From: Shelly A Ford Subject: Re: Photographing shows... Message-id: <7560269.1128016502284.JavaMail.sford4 [at] aug.edu> I meant to report that I use slide film, not print film. I was thinking and typing about two different things. Steve Larson wrote: >For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see >--------------------------------------------------- > >Quoted from the article- > >"There is nothing wrong with a video documentation of your production". > >I believe we crossed that road a month or so back. > >Steve > >> From: FrankWood95 [at] aol.com >> Reply-To: "Stagecraft" >> Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 13:02:32 EDT >> To: "Stagecraft" >> Subject: Re: Photographing shows... >> >> For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see >> --------------------------------------------------- >> >> In a message dated 29/09/05 03:28:49 GMT Daylight Time, >> jasonclights [at] gmail.com writes: >> >>> I am about to go into tech for a show and would like to take my own >>> production photographs. I know that photographing under stage >>> light... especially dim stage light is rather different than regular >>> photography, so I am looking for some tips and tricks to make sure >>> these pictures turn out useable. >> >> Go to http://www.oswego.edu/Acad_Dept/a_and_s/theatre/photoart.html >> >> This is a long and informative article on the topic. >> >> Frank Wood > > ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 14:01:56 -0400 Subject: Re: Photographing shows... From: Steve Larson Message-ID: In-Reply-To: Again it makes a difference which type of slide film you use. Indoor or outdoor. See all the responses for guidance. I used to shoot slide film all the time. Now I have 20 large boxes of slides. My solution- I scan what is desperately important to me now. That's about 2% of them. The rest I am sending to the various theatre and universities where I worked when I took them. They are for their archives. They can do what they want. I find that after 30 years of taking pictures, I don't need all the clutter. Hell, I can't even remember 80% of the actors in those shows. Steve > From: Shelly A Ford > Reply-To: "Stagecraft" > Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 13:55:02 -0400 (EDT) > To: "Stagecraft" > Subject: Re: Photographing shows... > > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > --------------------------------------------------- > > I meant to report that I use slide film, not print film. I was thinking > and typing about two different things. > ------------------------------ Subject: ticket software (a bit off topic, but I need some help) Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 14:56:30 -0400 Message-ID: <3CF87682970858499CA56707FB1F092B0A9269 [at] wscc-s-003000.westshore.edu> From: "Davis, Thomas J" Hi all, =20 I am going to a meeting next week to discuss new ticketing software (among other box office issues). We aren't happy with a web based service we have been using, and are considering purchasing software. We produce 20 shows- a total of 50 performances- in an average year. Our primary facility is a 300 seat house, but we also book shows occasionally into larger venues. In my 6 years, the largest venue was 1200 seats. We want something sophisticated enough to track some marketing info, but we aren't booking baseball stadiums or 6th balconies. =20 Any recommendations? Please contact me on or off list. =20 Thanks Tom Davis ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 15:26:17 -0400 From: Greg Williams Subject: Re: Photographing shows... In-reply-to: Message-id: References: Hi Jason, In addition to the excellent advice you've gotten so far, I would add the following... Film: Fuji HPC (or HPX?) 800 speed. Grain issues are a thing of the past with this. Camera: Wide open aperture means very little depth of field. f8 or thereabouts works very well for me. Tripod: Absolutely Cable release: mandatory Well trained actors: Very helpful. We like to go into the moment, have the actor's freeze when the director is happy, then take the shots quickly. Filter: 80B With slides, you will get very little latitude in the mistake zone, perhaps a stop or stop and a half in either direction. Film is much more forgiving. When in doubt, bracket. Take one shot at the recommended meter reading, then take one opened up a stop, then take one closed down a stop. When getting the film developed, ask the developer to scan them onto CD at the same time. High res scans of 35mm negatives are plenty to play with in the digital realm. Hope this helps! On Sep 28, 2005, at 10:26 PM, Jason Cowperthwaite wrote: > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see stagecraft.theprices.net/> > --------------------------------------------------- > > Hey folks... a question for you photographers out there... > > I am about to go into tech for a show and would like to take my own > production photographs. I know that photographing under stage > light... especially dim stage light is rather different than regular > photography, so I am looking for some tips and tricks to make sure > these pictures turn out useable. > > Also, what film do you all reccomend... keep in mind that I am on a > budget, so cant afford the super high end films. > > thanks in advance, > > Jason Cowperthwaite > -=Greg Williams=- Production Manager Valborg Theatre, Appalachian State University www.LRLR.org - 2006 dates July 9-18, c'mon and join us! ------------------------------ From: "Steve Jones" Subject: RE: ticket software (a bit off topic, but I need some help) Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 14:45:00 -0500 Organization: Plaza Theatre In-Reply-To: Message-ID: Two questions: 1) What are you using now? 2) What specifically are you unhappy with? What doesn't it do that you want? What does it do that you don't like how it does it? 3) How much are you willing to spend? We just went thru this process for the initial install of a software package (our theatre opened last April) and the above three questions are important to giving any helpful advice. Thanks! Steve ************************************* Steve Jones, Director Plaza Theatre 115 E. Main Street Glasgow, KY 42141 Voice: (270) 361-2101 Fax: (270) 651-2511 http://www.glasgowplazatheatre.org > -----Original Message----- > From: Stagecraft [mailto:stagecraft [at] theatrical.net] On Behalf > Of Davis, Thomas J > Sent: Thursday, September 29, 2005 1:57 PM > To: Stagecraft > Subject: ticket software (a bit off topic, but I need some help) > > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > > --------------------------------------------------- > > Hi all, > > > > I am going to a meeting next week to discuss new ticketing > software (among other box office issues). We aren't happy > with a web based service we have been using, and are > considering purchasing software. > We produce 20 shows- a total of 50 performances- in an average year. > Our primary facility is a 300 seat house, but we also book > shows occasionally into larger venues. In my 6 years, the > largest venue was 1200 seats. We want something > sophisticated enough to track some marketing info, but we > aren't booking baseball stadiums or 6th balconies. > > > > Any recommendations? Please contact me on or off list. > > > > Thanks > > Tom Davis > > > > ------------------------------ From: "Brian Busch" Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 14:16:26 -0600 Subject: Re: ticket software (a bit off topic, but I need some help) Message-Id: <20050929201626.52611CDA04 [at] ws1-2a.us4.outblaze.com> I'd like to toss a vote out there for AudienceView. It can handle all of yo= ur needs from the smallest not-for-profit to the largest Broadway house. We= just transitioned to AV and I could talk your ear off about the details, b= ut I think that would be best off-list. Brian Busch IT Manager Coterie Theatre ------------------------------ From: FrankWood95 [at] aol.com Message-ID: <88.3035dc01.306dbba5 [at] aol.com> Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 17:50:29 EDT Subject: Re: Photographing shows... In a message dated 29/09/05 20:46:19 GMT Daylight Time, gwilliams [at] appstate.edu writes: > Camera: Wide open aperture means very little depth of field. f8 or > thereabouts works very well for me. > Tripod: Absolutely > Cable release: mandatory > Well trained actors: Very helpful. We like to go into the moment, > have the actor's freeze when the director is happy, then take the > shots quickly. On some of this, I have to disagree. Perhaps your lighting is very much brighter than mine, but I have never been able to use such a small aperture. It seems to me that you are talking about semi-posed shots. I believe this to be a bad way to shoot a show. I do it in real time. Of course, as the LD I am familiar with the show. But I also want a record of my work as LD, warts and all! Frank Wood ------------------------------ Reply-To: From: "C. Andrew Dunning" Subject: RE: Photographing shows... Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 17:28:05 -0500 Organization: Landru Design In-Reply-To: Message-ID: >Camera: Wide open aperture means very little depth of field. >f8 or thereabouts works very well for me. For the bulk of what I'm shooting, the DOF isn't an issue (50'-100' away). For the closer shots, I really prefer the shallower DOF. Just my approach... >Well trained actors:... Not very doable w. pop stars. >When getting the film developed, ask the developer to scan >them onto CD at the same time. 100% agreement. At my local pro shop, the $7 is well worth it. FWIW, I've seen a HUGE difference between scans done at this shop vs. those done [at] some of the "non photo-specific" stores. Day-to-day pics of family things turn out just fine at those, but they seem to have trouble w. stage shots. - Andy ------------------------------ From: MissWisc [at] aol.com Message-ID: <8c.306d73a5.306dd95b [at] aol.com> Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 19:57:15 EDT Subject: Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books In a message dated 9/29/2005 12:01:16 PM Central Daylight Time, alderson [at] uwosh.edu writes: Not fair! "Magic of Light" hasn't been available for years, (since just BEFORE I decided I wanted a copy)! $150+ for used is a little over my budget. If your wife and siblings each pitch in, that would make a lovely, practical and wanted Christmas gift! Want me to suggest it to her? :) Kristi ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 20:39:46 -0400 Subject: Re: ticket software (a bit off topic, but I need some help) From: Steve Larson Message-ID: In-Reply-To: Can you give us some info about this software. Website? We're looking for a windows based software for box office and financial management. Steve > From: "Brian Busch" > Reply-To: "Stagecraft" > Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 14:16:26 -0600 > To: "Stagecraft" > Subject: Re: ticket software (a bit off topic, but I need some help) > > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > --------------------------------------------------- > > I'd like to toss a vote out there for AudienceView. It can handle all of your > needs from the smallest not-for-profit to the largest Broadway house. We just > transitioned to AV and I could talk your ear off about the details, but I > think that would be best off-list. > > Brian Busch > IT Manager > Coterie Theatre ------------------------------ Message-ID: <433C92A2.7090403 [at] fuse.net> Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 21:19:30 -0400 From: Stuart Wheaton Subject: Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books Survey Results References:

In-Reply-To: Delbert Hall wrote: > The Wire Rope Manual > The Complete Rigger's Apprentice - Toss > The Book of Knots - Budworth > Amen to Toss! Add Clifford Ashley, Ashley's Book of Knots, Add all the USITT Tech Expo guides you can scrounge up. Hey USITT, why have you let some lapse publication? Isn't it time for a new round? or a compendium? Add Enco to the catalog list. Machine tools and stuff like that. Add Outwater Plastics. If it isn't in the Pocket Ref, Machinery's Handbook will have it. Some of the Fine Woodworking on...series are very useful. Yamaha Sound Reinforcement Handbook. Stuart ------------------------------ From: "Jared Fortney" Subject: "OT: our town" movie Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 23:57:37 -0400 Message-ID: <433cb7b7.6337a249.415f.ffffec90 [at] mx.gmail.com> Has anyone else seen the documentary "OT: Our Town" about the return of theater to Dominguez High School in Compton, CA after a 20+ year absence? I stumbled across it at the local library and think it's a fantastic reminder of what exactly drama can achieve, both culturally and personally. Anyone else seen it and have an opinion? Check it out if you get the chance. -Jared Fortney ------------------------------ Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2005 23:24:57 -0400 Subject: Re: Photographing shows... From: Bruce Purdy Message-ID: In-Reply-To: Steve Larson wrote: >For our big annual production > of A Christmas Carol, I actually sell double photo > CDs of the memories of the show. The author/director/ > star of the show gave me permission. Let me get this straight - - you got permission from the author of "A Christmas Carol"?? I had been under the impression that Dickens was deceased! Bruce -- Bruce Purdy Technical Director Smith Opera House ------------------------------ From: "ladesigners [at] juno.com" Date: Fri, 30 Sep 2005 06:10:46 GMT Subject: Re: Top Ten Stagecraft Books Message-Id: <20050929.231101.15074.652111 [at] webmail02.lax.untd.com> I thought so too until I paid over $100 + shipping to someone on this list. The price was well above my budget, but to a SERIOUS designer, some things just aren't negotiable, so I 'bit the bullet' and bought it. I don't regret the purchase; you won't either. Grimace and buy it. /s/ Richard ___________________________ Not fair! "Magic of Light" hasn't been available for years, $150+ for used is a little over my budget. ------------------------------ End of Stagecraft Digest #535 *****************************