Photographing a dance competition tommorow. Any tips?

[TNVO]

This will be my first hands on experience on being a photographer for a big event. It's a high school dance competition, and I'm wondering if anyone has any helpful tips?

I'm gonna be using my standard 18-55 unless I get my hands on some lenses from my teacher. I may also be able to use a speedlite too.
thanks!

 

[subscuck]

Your gonna need that speed lite.

 

[TNVO]

Your gonna need that speed lite.

noted!
should I diffuse the light or have it aimed straight on?

 

[reedshots]

fast glass will help a lot, but yes you should diffuse the flash. You should get there early a note how the lighing is going to be and use a gray card to get the WB with and with out the flash.

 

[Ginu]

Speedlight is good, but try to score some fast glass like a f1.4 or 1.8 and also bring a monopod if you have access to one.