Hi Celine, what kind of camera are you using? I may be able to make some recommendations on how to set it up for this kind of a shot. It's a very difficult shot you took here!

At the time, I was using a Nikon D40x. I usually use film, but had to get a Digital Camera for my Senior Thesis in 2007. I love all formats, but have not gotten the hang of manual settings on Digital SLRs. The shutter and f-stop do not like me! Any tips are always welcome! Thanks, Daniel!

Sorry it took me so long to get back here! Well, I can tell you what I would do for this shot:

1. I would choose a fairly high ISO, such as 4000. Depending on your camera you may not have that high an option, or your camera may start introducing too much noise.
2. I would choose Aperture priority. This allows you to pick your optimal aperture and let the camera make other adjustments automatically. This also ensures you have the best aperture when you don't want to use flash.
3. I also don't care to carry a tripod everywhere I shoot, so I've learned some ways to brace the camera for tricky shots like this. One technique is to tuck the left bottom corner into the hollow between your left shoulder and neck. Crossing your left arm under the camera to use your left hand as the focus hand from the right side, use your right hand as you normally would. You would view with your left eye for this position. Breathe out and relax and take the shot. It feels awkward at first, but you can get a very steady shot if there is nothing else to brace against.

Let me know if you have any questions!

Awesome. Thank you, Daniel! I will keep these tips in mind for future challenges. Much appreciated!