O/T, advice needed

This weekend I was asked and said yes to photograph shutins for our church directory (I think the lady in charge knew I had a "big" camera so I must know how to take pictures). Well, I feel comfortable with a lot of situations in nature photography, but people pictures and especially portraits I don't really have a clue. I remember a few of the basics from a college photography class like to focus on the eyes, use a slight telephoto lens, and some basic lighting tips. I have an adequate flash to do bounce flash if necessary and can fire it remotely if it would help.

Any advice from those with experience would be greatly appreciated.

I've not done portraits but suspect proper lighting along with the slight telephoto [135mm] would do ok.
Lighting can be expensive.
the fisch

I don't take many people pictures either......but if you have someone that can hold a reflector for you that would be good. Sit them by a window if possible and get that soft light. Center the eyes. Slight tilt to head and shoulders at 45 angle to camera and at different levels. Yes focus on face and leave body out. They may tire easily so take the time to set up the shot without them first and just chat to them while you are getting ready. Then bring them in for a few shots, and call them by name. If they are unable to move around much, at least try to get them to hold head high and focus on face. Good luck!!!!

I agree with the others. My favorite portrait lens is the 85/1.8. I like to shoot singles at 2.8. F4 is always safe. Anytime you involve flash, it tends to get complicated. I would try to use natural light. Your subjects are going to be delicate, and as Dottie says, keep it simple, friendly, and don't take too long. You are not looking for perfection here. You are doing a good thing.

My question would be who is doing the non shutin photos, do you need to mach a background either light or dark? If the majority of the shots will be taken at the church with a full lighting set, or just in one place with no light set. The type of shot ( head shot or ypper body) .I would also check to see who will be dealing with the images afterword. I shoot for an orginization that then puts the photos into a publication and they can make me question how they got the image to look so much different than what I gave them. I am sure you will do a good job I have seen enough of your work to believe they picked a good person to do the job.