Essential Gear for Mardi Gras Photography
When stepping into the bustling Mardi Gras scene, focus on effective gear. Start with a reliable DSLR or mirrorless camera, like the Canon EOS R or Sony A7 III, offering flexibility with manual controls and fast autofocus.
For lenses, versatility is key. A 24-70mm f/2.8 lens handles wide shots and close-ups, while an 85mm prime is great for portraits. These fast lenses provide beautiful bokeh that makes Mardi Gras scenes pop.
Essential gear checklist:
- Lightweight tripod (e.g., Manfrotto BeFree)
- Weatherproof camera bag (e.g., Peak Design Everyday Backpack)
- Rain cover for camera and bag
- Microfiber cleaning cloths
- Extra batteries
- High-speed memory cards (e.g., SanDisk Extreme Pro SD cards)
- Comfortable camera strap (e.g., BlackRapid Sport Breathe)
- Small, sturdy flashlight
With your gear ready, you're set to capture the spirit of Mardi Gras.

Best Practices for Capturing Parades and Street Festivals
Position yourself strategically to capture the essence of Mardi Gras parades. Arrive early to find spots with clear views of the parade route, preferably from an elevated position for a unique perspective.
Time your shots to capture key moments, like the first float appearing or dancers in action. Use burst mode to ensure you don't miss anything. For night parades, set a higher ISO and use a fast lens to capture luminous floats and costumes in low light.
Interacting with subjects: Approach participants and spectators politely for composed shots. For candid shots, use a longer focal length to capture natural expressions while maintaining distance.
Pro tip: Blend into the scene to capture energy and spontaneity. Watch for unique interactions and crowd reactions – sometimes the best moments are in the audience.
Framing and Composition
- Include contextual elements like New Orleans' architecture or crowds
- Use leading lines to draw viewers' eyes into the frame
- Employ a wide aperture to make colorful subjects pop against a blurry backdrop
Be ready to adjust settings quickly between wide shots and close-ups. Practice changing settings swiftly to avoid missing moments. Do quick reviews to ensure your compositions and exposures are on point.
In post-processing, enhance vibrancy and contrast to reflect Mardi Gras' vivid reality. Crop to improve composition and remove distractions. Use software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop to fine-tune your images.
By combining preparation with spontaneity, you'll capture the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras in every shot. Relax, enjoy the experience, and let the good times roll!

Navigating Mardi Gras Logistics
Photographing Mardi Gras requires careful planning. Secure a press pass well in advance, researching contacts, procedures, and deadlines. Leverage any affiliations with publications or educational institutions when applying.
Study parade routes and schedules to position yourself effectively. Each parade has its character, so knowing where highlights occur is invaluable. Scout the route beforehand to identify ideal spots with good views and lighting.
Crowd Management Tips:
- Arrive early to secure prime locations
- Wear comfortable clothing
- Pack efficiently to move swiftly
- Stay flexible and adaptive in your positioning
- Engage with locals for insights on the best spots
Plan your shots around the parade's timeline, ensuring your gear is ready for the crescendo of activity. Coordinate efforts with scheduled times, keeping batteries charged and memory cards available.
"Safety first" is not just a saying – it's a necessity during Mardi Gras.
Prioritize safety by being aware of your surroundings. Crowds can become dense and rowdy, so keep your gear secured. Consider bringing a friend to watch your back while you focus on shooting.
With these logistical aspects managed, you'll be ready to immerse yourself in the festival and capture its essence, delivering stunning photographs that reflect the vibrancy of Mardi Gras.

Post-Processing Mardi Gras Photos
Post-processing is where your Mardi Gras images truly come to life. Start with color correction to maintain the authentic feel of the event. Adjust white balance to ensure true-to-life colors across various lighting conditions. Use tools like Adobe Lightroom's 'White Balance Selector' to set a neutral point.
Enhance vibrancy and saturation to emphasize the celebratory atmosphere, but be careful not to overdo it. Pay attention to skin tones in portraits to keep them natural-looking.
Composition Refinement:
- Use cropping to focus on subjects and remove distractions
- Consider the rule of thirds for balanced compositions
- A tighter crop can bring attention back to the subject in chaotic scenes
Retouch images by removing distracting elements like out-of-focus beads or debris. Use tools like the Spot Healing Brush or Clone Stamp in Photoshop, but maintain authenticity – Mardi Gras is about raw energy.
Adjust contrast and exposure to highlight details. Balance highlights and shadows to add depth and dimension, creating a natural sharpness that guides the viewer's eye.
Personal Style Tip: Create presets in Lightroom or actions in Photoshop to streamline your workflow and add your unique touch, whether you prefer a dreamy look or bold contrast.
Consider the storytelling aspect when organizing your photos. Group related shots and use sequencing to show the chronological story of the parade or showcase the diversity of costumes and expressions.
By applying these techniques thoughtfully, you'll ensure each image captures Mardi Gras' vibrant energy, allowing your audience to feel the joy and excitement of the festival.
Showcasing and Selling Mardi Gras Photography
After capturing and editing your Mardi Gras photographs, the next step is showcasing them to the world and finding avenues to sell your work. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a passionate amateur, there are several strategies you can employ to make the most of your Mardi Gras imagery.
Creating an Online Gallery
Creating an online gallery is fundamental to displaying your photos. Platforms like SmugMug, Zenfolio, or Adobe Portfolio allow you to create customizable galleries that highlight your best work. Ensure your gallery is:
- Easy to navigate
- Visually appealing
- Organized into categories (e.g., parades, costumes, candid moments)
Participating in Photography Contests
Contests can elevate your work and place it in front of a broader audience. Some notable contests include:
- ViewBug
- The International Photo Awards
- National Geographic's photo contests
Leveraging Social Media
Using social media is crucial for showcasing your photography. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest are perfect for sharing your Mardi Gras images. Remember to use relevant hashtags such as #MardiGras, #NewOrleans, and #StreetPhotography to increase visibility.
Pricing Your Photos
Pricing requires a balanced approach. Consider:
- Market trends
- Exclusivity of the shot
- Intended use
- Scale of the client
For digital images, offer different resolution options at varying price points. Prints can be priced based on size, framing options, and print quality.
Licensing Your Work
Licensing ensures fair compensation for your work. Platforms to consider include:
- Getty Images
- Adobe Stock
- Shutterstock
Be clear about the terms of use, including duration, types of usage permitted, and geographical restrictions.
Working with Clients Directly
From local businesses to magazines and tourism boards, having a professional portfolio and a proactive approach can land you lucrative gigs. Personalize your pitches and highlight your unique perspective.
Selling Prints
Consider selling prints at:
- Local art fairs
- Markets
- Through your website
Offering limited editions can create a sense of exclusivity, encouraging potential buyers to make a purchase.
"Photography is the story I fail to put into words." – Destin Sparks
By utilizing these strategies, you can effectively showcase and sell your Mardi Gras photography, ensuring that your vibrant images reach the widest audience possible. From online galleries and social media to contests and client work, there are many ways to turn your passion into profit while sharing the magic of Mardi Gras with the world.

Photo by carolhighsmith on Unsplash
By blending careful preparation with spontaneous interaction, you can capture the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras in every shot. The festival's whirlwind of sights and sounds is waiting for your lens, so relax, enjoy the experience, and let the good times roll!








