I have seen this also. I my case if I shut PS down I could then disconnect the HD. Apparrently the connection with PS was not broken even though the files were closed out of it.

About 10 years ago I lost a ton of pics to the "I Love You" virus on my computer. I had virus software but the virus was too new and spread too fast. Since then I am very paranoid and store files on an external HD and unplug it when not in use. The idea is that if the computer gets a virus, hopefully I will discover it before the external HD gets plugged in and is infected.
What are your thoughts?

This is two separate issues, copyrighting your photos, issue 1 and getting paid, issue 2. One, literaly is easy, the other not so.

I shoot a lot of BK in many differently lighted HS gyms. I worst has been ISO 3200, 1/300 with a constant f2.8 lens. If you are on the floor I recommend a 24-85mm. If in the stands a 70-200 will do. App must be f2.8.If you cannot get this try Shutter priority at 1/300. Blur will probably be tolerable (ends of hands or feet) on occasions and you can lighten in PS. Shoot some thing to get proper WB settings in the beginning.

Best condition f2.8, ISO 1600 or less and speed of 1/500. If

Yes and if you run or hop to the pose it frequently gets the group to smile or laugh, a genuine laugh not a forced smile. A remote is also a good solution but you need to hide your hand

I hate to do this but how about some factual data to use in making the use or don't use lens protectors judgment. Those of you who say it reduces quality take a with and without photo and post it. Be honest. Let's see what others think

Isn't it amazing what you can get if you use your head and some kindness instead of being confrontational.

This is one good solution but be sure to use a tripod so that only the people move from frame to frame.

Does anyone want to talk about photography?

The answer seems to be very simple. You said you need experience can you think of a better way of getting it? How would you get a group of people to pose free without this opportunity? Consider it a field trip.

I would tell her "I am very new and inexperienced but would love to help you out. Don't worry about the pay." If they are happy and have some character you will get a few bucks, if not, you have learned another valuable lesson. Who knows what needs they or their friends may have in the future?

You never have enough experience. I shoot many things that I don't expect to get paid for just to learn. Sometimes I am surprised at what comes out of it.

I shoot a lot of sports and here's what I use.
18-70 f2.8
70-200 f2.8
28-300 f3.5 to 6.5
Daytime football & soccer 28-300
Night football and soccer. At the HS level you probably need the 70-200 at ISO 1600 to 3200
Indoor Basketball and Volleyball I suggest the 18-70.
Note that many places will not let you in the stands with a long lens. Even if it is allowed it may be considered rude depending on how crowded it is.
Most colleges have better lighting but I am almost sure you will be chased out of the stands with a long lens.
Good Luck

I have been shooting BK for years. I use a 24-70 f2.8 aperature priority with an ISO of 2400 to 3200 and it's perfect for your end of the court. A 70-200 is OK for the far court but too long for your end unless you go to the sidelines (infront of spectators) or only want 1/2 body shots. Usually preset my white balance or used a lens cover to calibrate it.
Interestingly this last year the first game I shot the white balance was better and I got much higher speeds. I thought my memory had gone back and then someone asked how I liked the new lights in the gym. The lights were replaced with brighter but more efficient lights and I was able to turn my ISO back to 1600 and still shoot at 1/600th. I suggestthat you use an f 2.8 regardless of how bright the gym is, you will be happier with the results.

I shot a school play a few years ago with my 50D and a 70-200 f2.8 at 3200 ISO.Your noise level should be as good or better than my 50D. Tried a few at 6400 ISO but suggest you stay at 3200 if possible. Watch the white balance. Adjust pre-shooting if you can and probably want to shoot in RAW.
Good Luck

Smart to recognize your short comings or long comings (?) relative to being a business person or an artist. This is true in many areas. some would say it is the left brain, creative side and the right brain, structured side. Few use both well and some, like me don't use either well. I try to use the right side to make enough money so I can enjoy using the left, creative side when and how I want to.

The brides flowers, a piece of wedding cake and the wedding pictures are the things typically saved from the wedding. Look at them after a few years. Which one will you keep forever?