Night photography is not for the faint of heart. It can be cold, dark (well, you knew that) and exceedingly eerie. It can also be extremely rewarding. With the proper equipment and know how, you can capture some striking images at night.
Here are some basic night photography tips on how to prepare and make your night shoot a success.
Organizing your equipment
• Tripod, tripod, and tripod. Long exposures are part and parcel of night photography and tripods are key to keeping your camera steady.
Tripod
• Headlamp. Consider it your portable “sun.” As opposed to a flashlight, a headlamp frees your hands so you can set up equipment in the dark.
• Remote release. A remote release is a sure-fire way to ensure your camera stays still. Don’t have a remote? Use your camera’s self-timer function. Both will reduce the risk of blur by removing hands from the camera.
•Warm duds. Dress properly. Bring along a beanie or hat. Consider hooded mittens that you can flip open to fingerless gloves. They will keep your hands warm and allow you the dexterity to adjust your camera.
Ugg® Fingerless Mittens
Be one with your camera
• Know by feel how to adjust your ISO, shutter speed, aperture, and tripod comfortably. Practice during the day so you won’t have to fumble in the dark.
Be aware of your surroundings
• Watch the little stuff. The small potholes and puddles of the day can become harmful to you and your gear at night.
Shoot in groups. We’re not worried about zombies and we don’t mean to sound like your mom but with expensive equipment, in isolated dark areas, and the majority of your attention focused on your camera, you could be a target for some not-so-nice people who might sneak up on you. Stay alert and trust your instincts as to where is a safe place to shoot.
Stay tuned for next week’s installment on the technical side of shooting in the dark. In the meantime, check out these shots that are out there for you to capture.
Golden Gate Bridge
Under the Golden Gate Bridge
One Comment
Thank you for the instructions!