Indian POW WOW

[ronk]

<BR>
FYI there is a pow wow in Richmond Va. nov 12-14th. The Showplace, 3000 Mechanicville turnpike.<BR>
<BR>
I ahve never attended one of these events, any one familiar with them that can offer some tips?

[Nearly]

Here is a listing that may be of interest to you. From there, you can visit others to get an idea of events and activities. You definately will have a good time and will get many great photos, I'm sure if you go. As can be seen they are widespread. I have been to only one and I am sorry I didn't take more film. Even in the evening there were some nice available shots that coud be taken.

[Nearly]

No, here is the listing -- just hearing POW WOW, got me excited, <BR>
http://dir.yahoo.com/Regional/Countries/United_States/Society_and_Culture/Cultures_and_Groups/Cultures/American__United_States_/Native_American/Events/Pow_Wows/

[flint]

The local Creek Clan opens its pow-wows to the general public. Generally, photography is welcome. Be advised that during some dances and ceremonies (e.g. flag ceremonies, benedictions) they may ask that no pictures be taken. Dance competitions are generally open for photos, and pictures of individuals on the sidelines and their regalia permitted (it's considered polite to ask if okay before taking the pic). I've always gone during daylight hours, so flash photography wasn't an issue, but I think I would refrain from blasting off a flash at night, less it be intrusive.<BR>
<BR>
Sometimes they have a blanket dance to raise $ to pay travel costs of the drummers - I usually throw a few bucks on the blanket when it passes by.<BR>
<BR>
That's about it - watch, listen, enjoy, tour trader's row if they have one set up, and don't pass up the frybread. <BR>
<BR>

[DrJalapeno]

Here in SW Colorado, we have Indian Dances every evening during the summer months, and they're a thing of beauty.<BR>
These events are a great time to experiment with slower shutter speeds to capture movements of the colorful dress and to use rear (slow) synch flash to freeze the dancers with "trails" of the aforementioned dress following.<BR>
It can also be a good time to capture some good candids of dancers (esp. children) getting prepared for the rituals with a telephoto lens.

[flint]

The two problems I've encountered when trying to photograph the dances are cluttered backgrounds and harsh mid-day light. On bright days, I usually try to find a shaded spot near the edge of the ring that the dancers will pass through, and pick an angle so that the background will be relatively devoid of water coolers, people in street clothes, etc. The dances I've seen invariably have the dancers moving clockwise around the ring.<BR>
<BR>
There are usually 3 or 4 drummers in a group who might also be a worthy photographic subject.<BR>
<BR>
Hope that helps in your planning.

[TweedleBeetle]

Ron--<BR>
<BR>
I've been to the Pow Wow at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, Wyoming a couple of times, and can offer a couple of hints:<BR>
<BR>
1) There will probably be some "rules" about when photography is not appropriate due to respect for the event, so you may want to check when you get there (if they don't announce it). For example, eagle feathers that drop from a dancer's outfit have to be "removed" from the grounds in a very special way, and--at least at the BBHC--it was off-limits to photograph this due to the "spiritual" nature of the event.<BR>
<BR>
2) There will probably be a lot of tents/awnings set up around the Pow Wow grounds. The competitors usually set these up, but you can squeeze in between relatively easily. If you move too much, you may lose your spot, though.<BR>
<BR>
3) The men's Grass Dancers are the most athletic and many times the most colorful dances to watch. The women's shawl dance is not as athletic, but usually has very colorful garb, as well.<BR>
<BR>
4) Seriously bring some Tylenol. I love the cultural experience, but four hours of drum beating and chanting left me with a huge headache.<BR>
<BR>
I think you'll have a lot of fun, and hope that you'll post some pictures of your experience when you get back. Let me know if these help or not.

[mziese1]

Been to several here in Maryland... Very colorful. Especially the original clothing worn by the various tribes. <BR>
<BR>
Suggestion number one... bring a flash<BR>
<BR>
Suggestion number two and the most important. Do Not... I repeat Do Not say "HOW"....<BR>
<BR>
<BR>
Martin

[TweedleBeetle]

What did you think of the Pow Wow, Ron?

[ronk]

Very different experience. i grabbed a few shots, it was an indoor venue. The pix are posted at PT.

[TweedleBeetle]

If you ever get a chance, the outdoor ones are a lot better.