New assignment - book signing/cocktail party

[seeker]

So I have a (potential) client who has asked me to shoot a book signing (she is an author among other things). The format is going to be a cocktail party, and though I am not too concerned with the technical side of things I am a bit concerned about the etiquette of shooting such an event.

Is it acceptable to use flash at such an event? I suspect the lighting is going to suck due to the time of day (evening) and format (cocktail party). I plan on getting an advance look at the location to see whether I can get away with bounce flash from an on-camera strobe.

Also, although pics of her actually signing some books is an obvious given, what other types of candids might I be looking for above and beyond the typical "man speaking with woman", "waiter pouring glass of wine", "crowd of people laughing", etc? :)

Anyone with experience at this type of event?

Thanks!

Brian

[SloYerRoll]

Hey Brian,

It's a shame that you didn't get any advise from anyone that has actual experience.
I figure I'd give my .02 on this and what I'd do. I'm always cautious about being courteous so I figure we may have a like mind to a certain extent.

At this point whether you are or aren't. You're going to be the pro photog at this event and it's a publicity event. I think it's more than appropriate to use flash. It may actually help out to get people frenzied up when they see a pro working. It will also generate interest even to people that may not normally show interest. You always draw a crowd when your shooting w/ strobes in a semi dark environment. They want to see what's going on (and secretly want their picture to be taken as well).

This also sounds like a fantastic opportunity to network. If you're trying to do this professionally (or already are). Make sure you have tons of business cards. Hand them out like candy. Joke w/ the ppl, have fun, make them want to see you again. But this time taking their pictures instead.

Just some thoughts. I hope your event turns out no matter what you do.

All the best,
-Jon

[pathfinder]

What Jon said - flash rules for this situation, unless the author or the owner of the store absolutely refuses to allow it, even after having the need for it carefully explained to them.